The 2024 season of the Arizona Fall League AFL) is already a week in, and a number of top prospects are making their presence felt early in the competition. Here are some of the standout players from the first week of action:



Colt Emerson, SS, Peoria

Stats: 6-for-16, 3 HR, 6 RBIs

Emerson made headlines by hitting three home runs in a single game, becoming the first AFL player to do so since Renato Nez in 2015. His performance outshone notable players like Mets' Jeff McNeil and Phillies' prospect Andrew Painter. Emerson credited his performance to hard work in the gym. The recovery was tough, but Im feeling great now, he said through translator Analis Castro. I want to carry todays success into the future.



Robert Hassell III, OF https://www.philliesplayerfanstore.com/carlos_ruiz_jersey-119, Salt River

Stats: 7-for-13, 2 2B, 1 HR, 7 RBIs, 12 TB, SB

The talented outfielder is trying to regain his former top-prospect status, and his early results are promising. Hassell showed off his full skillset last week, hitting for average, flashing power, and stealing a base. His seven RBIs placed him second in the AFL for the week, and he's definitely a player to keep an eye on.



Connor Phillips, RHP, Glendale

Stats: 4 IP, 0 R, 2 H, 7 SO, 0 BB

After making his MLB debut just nine months ago, Phillips was sent back to Rookie ball to work on his mechanics. Now back in the AFL, hes showing promise to finish his season strong. Phillips threw four scoreless innings in his first start, striking out seven without walking a batter. His 85-87 mph slider was his most effective pitch, generating swings and misses and plenty of strikes, while his fastball ranged from 96-99 mph.



Andrew Painter, RHP, Glendale

Stats: 2 IP, 3 H, 2 ER, 2 SO, BB

The Phillies top pitching prospect had a mixed return to the mound in his first appearance since undergoing Tommy John surgery. Despite the uneven outing https://www.philliesplayerfanstore.com/jose_alvarado_jersey-175, the AFL is all about progress, and Painter showed encouraging signs. He hit triple digits with his fastball and struck out Giants' top prospect Bryce Eldridge with a breaking ball in his first inning, a promising moment for the Phillies. The key for them now is to see Painter continue building strength and health as he eyes a potential MLB debut next season.







https://www.philliesplayerfanstore.com