As MLB’s Opening Day draws near, MLB Pipeline has released its latest prospect rankings in anticipation of the upcoming season. While the Philadelphia Phillies may not be overly thrilled with their farm system’s placement in this recent update, there are reasons for optimism.
The Phillies’ development system is currently ranked 22nd by MLB Pipeline. Initially, this might not seem particularly encouraging, but when compared to where the organization stood just two years ago, 22nd overall feels like progress. At this time last year, the Phillies held the 21st spot, and by midseason, they had slipped to 23rd. Thus, rather than breaking into the upper echelon of the league, they’ve consistently hovered in the low-20s over the past few updates.
Examining the most recent rankings, here’s how the system has been assessed:
– 2024 preseason rank: 22
– 2023 midseason rank: 23
– 2023 preseason rank: 21
– 2022 midseason rank: 25
– 2022 preseason rank: 26
Clearly, there’s been improvement, but what factors contribute to this placement?
The Phillies boast four players within the Top 100 prospect rankings, a promising start. Notably, starting pitchers Andrew Painter (No. 27) and Mick Abel (No. 49) occupy spots within the Top 50, while third baseman Aidan Miller (No. 61) and outfielder Justin Crawford (No. 77) round out the latter half of the Top 100.
Painter’s current impact may be limited due to injury, but his potential is undeniable. Abel was particularly impressed during spring training, showcasing his skills in notable games and earning recognition for his performance. Miller has displayed promise as a future third baseman for the Phillies, and Crawford has drawn attention for his exceptional speed, a trait praised by scouts and MLB executives alike.
While Starlyn Caba, the team’s No. 5 prospect, didn’t crack the Top 100, there’s optimism that he could make the list in future updates.
Looking ahead, there’s reason to be optimistic about the Phillies’ farm system. Preston Mattingly, the Phillies’ director of player development and assistant general manager, has played a pivotal role in revitalizing a system that was once struggling. While the Phillies’ farm system may not have received widespread acclaim from MLB executives, it did garner recognition as one of the most underrated systems in an offseason poll.
With successful debuts from players like Johan Rojas in 2023, Orion Kerkering poised for impact this season, Abel awaiting his opportunity, and Painter eyeing a rotation spot in 2025, the Phillies’ farm system is beginning to yield results for the big league club. With any luck, more talented prospects will emerge in the coming years, further bolstering the team’s future prospects.
