Fresh off some clubhouse controversy, Jason Vargas made his first start since the unfortunate events that occurred at Wrigley Field on Sunday. The elder statesman of the starting rotation showed no signs of letting the behind the scenes issues get to him as he continues his strong string of starts for the Metropolitans before the bullpen gave it all away, yet again.
Vargas, 36, put forth another quality start on Wednesday night, tossing 6.1 solid innings of ball before handing it over to the albatross that has become the Mets’ bullpen. He allowed two runs on three hits while walking two and striking out ten Philadelphia Phillies in the process.
The 10 strikeouts from Vargas were a season high and also matched a career high for the the veteran pitcher who has been a surprising bright spot for the team after a rough start to his season. His changeup has been a big reason for that and on Wednesday night he threw 29 of them with 12 swinging strikes.
The Mets pulled Vargas after just 77 pitches when manager, Mickey Callaway handed the ball over to Seth Lugo. The rest is history as for the Major League leading 19th time this season the bullpen would give away what could have been a Mets victory.
The Mets manager spoke after the game on what was another disappointing loss for the struggling club.
“They all sting,” Callaway said. “It’s another one, we had a lead with not many outs to go, and we just can’t hold it. If we’d have done that consistently all season, we’d be there right with everybody at the top. It hasn’t happened.” (MLB)
Vargas did not get to speak much on his terrific start on Wednesday night as the majority of questions centered around the earlier fracas that occurred on Sunday. The southpaw was quick to give some further thoughts on the situation.
“I don’t think all the information is out there,” Vargas said. “I don’t think this is a time to get into that, but I think anybody that knows me or has played with me through the duration of my career, there has never been a situation like that, so think it just happened out of the blue would be foolish.” (NY Post)
It was an unfortunate situation that has drawn the attention of many, including the SNY booth who were not afraid to give their disappointments on how the situation has been handled by all, Vargas included.
Vargas has now shown his ability to be consistent on the mound for a good period of time in 2019 as his ERA sits at 3.66 with a WHIP of 1.28 and a FIP of 4.35. His WAR sits at 1.1 on the season.
