Former No. 1 overall pick Mark Appel called up by Phillies, finally gets his shot at the majors at age 30

PHILADELPHIA — Mark Appel’s wait is over.

Nine years after being drafted first overall, four years after taking a leave from baseball, Appel got called up by the Phillies late Friday night to replace reliever Connor Brogdon, who was placed on the COVID-19 list, interim manager Rob Thomson announced after a 1-0 loss to the Padres.

”Completely overwhelmed,” Appel said, via Twitter. “I have so many thoughts I want to share but can’t find the words, so I’ll just say this: I’m thankful. Today, I get to play a game I love as a Major League Baseball player. LET’S GOOOOO @PHILLIES!!!!”