The transition from player to analyst isn’t an easy one. In an instant, you go from being one of the guys in the clubhouse to another critical voice in a suit.
Jamie Moyer doesn’t want to be that voice.
“It’s real easy to sit behind a desk and say, ‘That guy really stinks,’” said the former Phillie turned ESPN analyst. “You’re not privy to inside information. Maybe he has a personal problem.
“I don’t need to be critical. My goal is to try and educate the person watching on what happened and why it happened.”
Moyer is in what he called a trial period for ESPN’s “Baseball Tonight.” The 48-year-old has signed on for 25 appearances, including one this Friday night.
“It’s something I never thought I’d have the opportunity to do,” said Moyer, who was approached by ESPN before the season. “It’s given me a whole new perspective on the game.”
But just because Moyer is lounging behind the desk right now, don’t think for a second that he has put his comeback plans on hold.
“At this point, I would say yes,” Moyer said, when asked if he would pitch in the majors again.
Last week, he started a six-to-seven-week throwing program. If he completes it pain-free, Moyer hopes to take the mound and work on arm strength. He’s had no setbacks in his first five months of rehab.
“So far, so good,” Moyer said. “I have no timetable. There’s no way I can pitch competitively this year. The wisest thing is to take my time. All my doctors have told me, ‘Take your time, don’t push yourself.’”
