The Phillies bought Vargas out for $2 million rather than keeping him around for one more year at an $8 million salary. He'll head to free agency ahead of his age-37 season having posted ERAs of 5.77 and 4.51 over the last two years.

The southpaw gave up a run in both the first and second inning, then locked things up until a damaging three-run fifth frame that sank the Phillies for good. With the loss, Vargas remains just one win away from 100 career wins, finishing the season 7-9 with a 4.51 ERA and 1.36 WHIP. His 2020 status with the Phillies remains open-ended; the team holds an $8 million option on him.

Vargas allowed two runs in each of the first two innings, but settled in from there to turn in a quality start and earn the win. The outing was his longest since joining the Phillies -- a span of 10 appearances -- and marked only the fourth time he pitched six or more frames. He now owns a 4.40 ERA across 145.1 innings for the season. Vargas is projected to take the ball for the final time in the regular season Thursday at Washington.

The 36-year-old hasn't pitched into the fourth inning in either of his last two outings. He didn't allow many baserunners in this one, but an error and grand slam led to his undoing. Vargas is 6-8 with a 4.48 ERA, 1.34 WHIP and 113 strikeouts in 138.2 innings with the Mets and Phillies this season. He is scheduled to pitch again at the Indians on Friday.