Trending Now - Yankees Defeat Phillies as Painter Shines in Spring Start

WHO:

Andrew Painter, Philadelphia Phillies right-hander

Jasson Domínguez, New York Yankees player

Jesús Luzardo, Philadelphia Phillies left-hander

Todd Zolecki, Senior Reporter for MLB.com

WHAT:

Andrew Painter made his first Grapefruit League start since 2023 on March 1, 2026.

Painter retired all six batters he faced in two scoreless innings against the Yankees.

Painter struck out Jasson Domínguez swinging on a 2-2 slider to end the first inning.

Painter's fastball touched 97.8 mph and averaged 96.8 mph.

Jesús Luzardo expressed willingness to pitch for Team Venezuela in the 2026 World Baseball Classic if needed.

WHERE:

BayCare Ballpark, Clearwater, Florida, USA

WHEN:

March 1, 2026: Andrew Painter's spring debut

March 1, 2023: Painter experienced soreness in his right elbow, diagnosed as a UCL sprain.

Venezuela's first game in the World Baseball Classic is on March 10, 2026.

WHY:

Painter's performance is significant as he has expectations on his shoulders for the 2026 season.

Luzardo's potential participation in the World Baseball Classic is due to a teammate leaving camp.

HOW:

Painter's effective pitching included throwing all of his pitches for strikes and achieving late swings from hitters.

Luzardo is on Venezuela’s reserve list, making him eligible to join the team later in the tournament.

On March 1, 2026, Andrew Painter made a strong return to the mound for the Philadelphia Phillies, retiring all six batters he faced in two scoreless innings against the New York Yankees, with his fastball reaching up to 97.8 mph. In a notable moment, Painter struck out Jasson Domínguez swinging on a 2-2 slider to close out the first inning, showcasing his readiness for the upcoming season. Meanwhile, Jesús Luzardo expressed his willingness to pitch for Team Venezuela in the World Baseball Classic, which kicks off on March 10, if needed, as he remains on the reserve list for the team.