Phillies Prospect Watch: Young Arms Taking Their Lumps

Phillies’ affiliates endured a rough day at the office on Thursday, April 23, going 1-3 with Triple-A Lehigh Valley picking up the lone win. Fringe major leaguers like Bryan De La Cruz (4-for-4 with four singles) and Sergio Alcántara (1-for-3 with a double and a walk) powered the offense, while Christian Cairo tacked on two RBI with a groundout and a sacrifice fly.

Double-A Reading lost 6-4 despite home runs from shortstop Bryan Rincon (2-for-4 with a homer and a double) and first baseman Austin Murr. Carson DeMartini (2-for-5) and Raylin Heredia both doubled, but starting right-hander Giussepe Velasquez gave up four runs in three innings and the Fightin Phils couldn’t work their way back into the game.

High-A Jersey Shore lost 12-5, starter and Saint Joseph’s alumnus Luke Gabrysh shelled for seven runs in 3.1 innings. 2024 tenth round pick Brady Day hit two homers, drew a walk and stole a base from the leadoff spot, but the BlueClaws went 0-for-8 with runners in scoring position.

Phillies 2025 fourth round pick Sean Youngerman continued to ride the ups and downs of his first professional season for Single-A Clearwater, giving up five runs in 3.2 innings as the Threshers lost 8-4. Fifth round pick Gabe Craig contributed a scoreless inning in relief and center fielder Griffin Burkholder tripled in an otherwise quiet night for Clearwater.