Mark Appel #66 of the Philadelphia Phillies (Photo by Brace Hemmelgarn/Minnesota Twins/Getty Images)
While the Philadelphia Phillies game Sunday evening against the Atlanta Braves was one to forget, their Double-A affiliate’s game was anything but — especially for starting pitcher Mark Appel.
The former No. 1 overall pick made his first professional appearance since September 2, 2017, and his first start since July of that year. The right-hander is attempting a comeback with the Phillies after taking an “indefinite break” from baseball nearly four years ago. In 2 2/3 innings, he allowed three hits, two walks, and just one run, while striking out four batters.