Rosario began his professional career in rookie ball in 2023, posting a 0-1 record with a 7.50 ERA over five games, including one start. He returned to rookie ball in 2024, finishing 0-5 with a 5.44 ERA across 12 starts. The 6-foot-2 lefty started 2025 again in rookie ball before being promoted to A-ball, where he struggled mightily, recording an 0-0 mark with an 8.59 ERA in five games. This led to another return to rookie ball in 2026. Despite the setback, Rosario continued to pitch as a reliever in rookie ball, going 0-1 with a 7.88 ERA in 15 games, ultimately prompting the Phillies to move on from the prospect.
It remains unclear if another organization will take a chance on a 21-year-old pitcher who has faced ongoing challenges in the lower levels of the minors.
Phillies Draft Strategy and Pitching Depth
As the MLB Draft begins, the Phillies aim to bolster their pitching depth. On day one of the draft (Rounds 1-20), Philadelphia holds five selections: 36th, 64th, 100th, 128th, and 135th overall. With a need for upper-level starting pitching depth, analysts expect the Phillies to prioritize college arms early.
MLB.com analyst Todd Zolecki noted that the organization appears to be targeting more polished pitchers who can contribute sooner, though Phillies assistant general manager of amateur scouting Brian Barber previously underscored a different philosophy. Barber explained that while the preference is to add impact talent, the organization values opportunities to add versatile arms, including relievers with big-league potential, even if they come in later rounds. Zolecki quoted Barber discussing the balance between drafting for potential as a starter versus finding relievers who can help at the major league level.
Mock drafts have varied on whom the Phillies might select in the early rounds. Jonathan Mayo of MLB.com projected Notre Dame pitcher Jack Radel to Philadelphia, while MLB Pipeline’s mock had them targeting Mississippi pitcher Cade Townsend. The drafting approach is widely viewed as favoring college pitching early.
Managerial Update
In the wake of a slow start to the season, the Phillies made changes in the dugout, replacing the manager and appointing Don Mattingly as interim manager. Mattingly has expressed interest in continuing in the role beyond the interim period, stating that he enjoys managing and is open to remaining with the team if the situation aligns with organizational plans and his commitments.
The Phillies currently sit in a competitive position, with the team performing well enough to remain within striking distance of the division lead, highlighting the ongoing emphasis on strengthening pitching depth through the draft and organizational development.
Notes
– The roster move removing Rosario reflects a broader trend of teams adjusting affiliates and evaluating prospects ahead of the draft.
– The organization has emphasized a philosophy toward valuing both polished college arms and potential upside in younger players, with a stated preference for versatile relievers who can contribute at the major league level.
