Moyer sees Vargas as providing help in a hurry

Souderton graduate sees value in veteran left-hander

PHILADELPHIA >> There were hugs and camera mugs throughout a downstairs interview room Saturday night as members of the Phillies’ 2009 World Series losers (sorry, National League champions) gathered on a day of celebration.

Simultaneous to Bobby Abreu’s Phillies Wall of Fame induction day, the 2009 team was honored on this annual alumni weekend.

That club, like the World Series winners of the historic season before, of course, had two left-handed starting pitchers in young Cole Hamels and, um, seasoned Souderton graduate Jamie Moyer, something that has been rare for Phillies teams since. At least it was until the last week.

Longtime veteran lefty Jason Vargas started his first game as a Phillie Friday night and fared quite well, going an out deep into the seventh inning, allowing two earned runs on only five hits, while striking out five Chicago White Sox and walking but one.

Vargas was long gone before the Phillies finally went down 4-3 in 15 innings. But his game was certainly encouraging for the team’s immediate future.

And the Phillies need all the pitching encouragement they can get.

The bullpen continues to be a medical nightmare, with Adam Morgan the latest addition to an injured list that includes Seranthony Dominguez, Pat Neshek, Victor Arano and done-for-theyear relievers Tommy Hunter and David Robertson. In addition, Hector Neris has been unavailable for this White Sox series while serving a three-game suspension.

If it weren’t for failed starters Nick Pivetta and Zach Eflin, and newcomers Mike Morin and Blake Parker, the Phillies would barely have a bullpen at all. But Eflin and Pivetta have re

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MEDIANEWS GROUP PHOTO Souderton native Jamie Moyer, 56, gathers with other members of the Phillies’ 2009 National League champions Saturday prior to the 2019 team’s game against the Chicago White Sox.