Phillies' Young Duo Shines Amid Early Struggles

Rookies Andrew Painter and Justin Crawford provide bright spots for underperforming team

Apr. 19, 2026 at 8:42pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a baseball game in fragmented, geometric shapes and planes, with players and the field blending together in an abstract, deconstructed composition.The Phillies' young stars shine through the team's early-season struggles, providing hope for the future.Philadelphia Today

The Philadelphia Phillies have stumbled to an 8-12 record through the first 21 games of the 2026 season, leaving them as one of the more disappointing teams in baseball so far. However, the emergence of two young stars - rookie pitcher Andrew Painter and rookie outfielder Justin Crawford - has provided a glimmer of hope for the struggling club.

Why it matters

The Phillies were expected to contend for a playoff spot this season, but their slow start has them already playing catch-up in the NL East. The strong performances of Painter and Crawford suggest the team's long-term future remains bright, even if the 2026 campaign has gotten off to a rocky beginning.

The details

Painter, the Phillies' first-round draft pick in 2024, has burst onto the scene with a 3-1 record and 2.95 ERA through his first 5 starts. Meanwhile, Crawford - the son of former MLB star Carl Crawford - is batting .321 with 3 home runs and 12 RBIs in his first 21 games at the big-league level.

  • The Phillies have started the 2026 season with an 8-12 record through their first 21 games.
  • Andrew Painter has a 3-1 record and 2.95 ERA in his first 5 starts of the season.
  • Justin Crawford is batting .321 with 3 home runs and 12 RBIs in his first 21 games.

The players

Andrew Painter

A 22-year-old rookie pitcher for the Philadelphia Phillies, who was the team's first-round draft pick in 2024.

Justin Crawford

A 23-year-old rookie outfielder for the Philadelphia Phillies, who is the son of former MLB star Carl Crawford.

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What they’re saying

“The young guys are really stepping up and giving us a boost. We know we have a lot of work to do, but it's great to see Painter and Crawford playing so well.”

— Rob Thomson, Phillies Manager

What’s next

The Phillies will look to build on the strong starts from Painter and Crawford as they try to turn around their season and make a push for the playoffs.

The takeaway

Despite the Phillies' disappointing start, the emergence of top prospects Andrew Painter and Justin Crawford provides hope for the team's long-term future. If the young stars can continue their strong play, the Phillies may be able to overcome their early-season struggles and contend for a postseason berth.