It's too bad that Vaporeon * doesn't remove shockwave or imprision markers or else it might be getting some more hype IMHO.
The combo that comes to my mind is Vaporeon * + Mr Brineys Compassion (or Super Scoop Up). Pop Vaporeon * down on your bench two, three, or more times in one turn or just be able to do it several turns in a row to counter condition decks.
As a tech it's not even a terrible starter if it's your only basic. 50-50 to take energy off your opponents starter isn't terrible, though the attack doesn't keep up later in the game.