Jason Vargas started for Single-A Brooklyn for a second time on his rehab assignment last night and pitched fairly well.
The left-hander went six innings (90 pitches) while allowing two runs (both homers) and six hits while striking out ten batters and walking none.
In his first rehab start, he was just as, if not more effective. He allowed no runs, one hit, and no walks while striking out nine in six innings of work in that one.
Vargas has been sidelined with a strained right calf since June 24 (retroactive to June 20) and has made just nine starts for the team. After signing a two-year, $16 million deal with the Mets in February, Vargas broke the hamate bone in his right, non-throwing hand during Spring Training.
The 35-year old was activated on April 28 and has gone 2-6 with an 8.60 ERA in 37.2 innings of work. His 45 ERA+ and 1.83 WHIP are surely not what the Mets had in mind when they brought the crafty veteran onboard.
Last season for the Kansas City Royals, Vargas pitched to a 4.16 ERA with an efficient 1.33 WHIP.
