Tacking on to gmwannabe with another first-hand account from Reading last night on Painter:
-Fastball ranged from 96 to a single 100 reading. Average 98
-Only 2 hard hit balls in play. The hitters were sitting on first pitch fastball and did pull some line drives foul, but only two in play were hard hit
-The harder breaking ball (typically 89) was a lot more effective than the slower (81) in terms of command
-In the inning that the opponents loaded the bases, Painter had clearly struck a guy out looking on a backdoor breaking ball, but I think the ump was even fooled. The next batter was nicked on the hand by a fastball that was within a few inches of the plate. Painter got angry and then got out of the jam.
-Did not see a changeup from what I could tell, but he also did not need it at this level
-Was only at 72 pitches after 5, not sure why he was pulled. Could be innings restriction, could be that he was going on one night fewer rest than usual. Organizational caution, I am sure
Overall was thrilled to see a special pitching prospect in the great atmosphere of Reading. Although I think he could help the Phillies win now, I think the rightfully cautious approach on innings this year means he should not be called up. But he should spend March in big league camp and start at AAA next season.
Other observations:
-De La Cruz was more impressive than Ortiz, who missed on a number of fastballs down the heart.
-Breaking news: Johan Rojas is a very fast human being
-Not much to show for it and his stats are weak, but Madison Stokes hit the ball hard 3 times
