Cole Hamels takes out full-page ad to thank Phillies fans
By JOHN DORN
Cole Hamels began his Philadelphia Phillies career in 2006 as a 22-year-old rookie. After a World Series title and 114 victories -- the last of which being a no-hitter at Wrigley Field -- Hamels' career in Philadelphia came to an end last week following a trade to the Texas Rangers.
The 31-year-old matured as a player and a person with the Phillies, crediting the organization and its fans for his near decade of success in the bigs. This past weekend, he took a full-page ad out of the Philadelphia Inquirer to recognize the Philly faithful.
ICYMI - Cole and Heidi Hamels thank Philadelphia in a full-page ad in Sunday’s @PhillyInquirerpic.twitter.com/jxZUdWd9qZ
— Jake Kaplan (@jakemkaplan) August 1, 2015
The letter read:
"You have given us memories that will last a lifetime. Philadelphia is the 'City of Brotherly Love' and we cannot thank you enough for the love that you have shown our family during out time here. To the many fans, friends and family that we have made here, we are eternally grateful. Philadelphia is where we made our first home and where we started our family, and it will always hold a special place in our hearts. We wish the Philadelphia Phillies, their fans and the entire city of Philadelphia the very best. Thank you again for being an amazing part of our lives! We will never forget you."
Classy move from Hamels, who realizes a departure was clearly in the best interest of both parties.
See photos of Hamels throughout his career:
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