With the start of the minor league season underway, it's time for Phillies fans to get to know some of the club's potential up-and-comers. Yes, we all know about Andrew Painter landing a job in the Phillies' starting rotation. We know that Gage Wood will be the arm to watch among Philadelphia farmhands.
But what about the other guys? Who do we need to get familiar as every affiliate is beginning to play nightly? From Alan Rangel to Andrew Baker to Giussepe Velasquez, there is a guy at every level who needs your attention immediately.
One Phillies pitching prospect at each level who deserves your attention
Triple-A: Alan Rangel
Remember this guy? Rangel made his MLB debut last June, but never quite stuck with Philadelphia. He appeared in five games, striking out eight batters across 11 innings with a 2.45 ERA. This included a five-inning scoreless save with six punchouts against the Braves on June 27.
Rangel is 28 years old. He struggled at spring training this year. He has minimal MLB experience, so he is still a prospect. With over 900 career minor league innings to his name, it might be time for him to officially etch his name on the active roster ... eventually, at least, if the decision-makers can get over his woes from March.
Rangel has allowed one run across 10.1 innings to start his season with Triple-A Lehigh Valley. He's worth keeping a keen eye on if he continues to dominate at this level. He is worth a second look.
Double-A: Andrew Baker
With Double-A Reading, Baker is in his sixth professional season. Baker has yet to climb above Double-A, but he is still a reliever to look out for. He was a catcher in high school, so the 26-year-old is still relatively new to the mound. But now is the time for him to elevate his game.
Baker throws a fastball that can reach triple digits with a lot of run, but his command has historically been an issue. He's seen a dip in walks every season since 2023, however, despite throwing in more innings. So that is a great sign for what 2026 has to offer.
He struck out three batters and issued no walks in his 2026 debut.
High-A: Giussepe Velasquez
Entering the season, the 22-year-old had never played above Single-A across five pro campaigns. He owns a career 6.02 ERA in a dozen Single-A starts, but Velasquez begins this year with High-A Jersey Shore.
Even if he didn't fully deserve the promotion based on prior performance, the decision to move him up is already paying off for the Phillies. He struck out five batters in three scoreless innings, earning the win in relief for the club's first victory of the year.