It was reported Saturday that Jamie Moyer had suffered a left elbow injury while pitching in the Dominican Winter League and had had to leave the game. Initial word was that the injury was career-ending. It's hard to believe that Moyer, even if he turns 48 in a week or so, is done. He was with the Phillies for almost five seasons, compiling a 56-40 record and winning a World Series. This year, in a season cut short by injury, he went 9-9, including two complete games. One was a stunning two-hit shut-out of the Braves on May 7, a day after the passing of pitching great Robin Roberts.
Except for a vinegary blip last year when he was sent to the bullpen, Moyer was all that one could hope for in a professional athlete. Best of all, in so many ways he got better and better with age. Lots of people say that he will become an MLB pitching coach once his playing days are done. He would no doubt excel in the role but I could see him more readily becoming a high school coach or some such down in Florida, where he and his family make their home.
Fine as wine. That's pretty much Jamie Moyer, one of the coolest stories of the 2008 team. Hometown boy comes home, wins the World Series. What could be better than that, especially at age 46.
