Phillies Protect Top Prospects from Rule 5 Draft

The Philadelphia Phillies have bolstered their organizational depth by adding three prospects to their 40-man roster, effectively shielding them from the upcoming Rule 5 draft. This move ensures that these players, including top prospect Painter, will not be available for selection by other teams. Painter, despite some command issues in the minors during his first full season post-Tommy John surgery, is expected to compete for a rotation spot next year.

Also protected are outfielder Rincones Jr., known for his power, and pitcher McFarlane, who boasts a fastball capable of reaching triple digits. Rincones Jr. displayed significant power in the minors last season, hitting 18 home runs and driving in 73 runs. McFarlane, also recovering from Tommy John surgery, showed a strong strikeout rate despite a higher ERA.

Despite these protections, several notable prospects were left exposed, including Griff McGarry, who was the Phillies' third-ranked prospect in 2023, and promising hitter Felix Reyes. The Phillies' roster now stands at 33 players as they prepare for the December 11th Rule 5 draft.