Proud to be a Phan
I am so proud of the Philadelphia Phillies! Sure, we’re all disappointed that they lost, but I am more proud than upset.
These boys played terrific. Their first win of the year came from behind, and that set the tone for the season. The regular season and postseason were filled with exciting wins! This team never quit. Day in and day out, they played their hearts out and made this season an enjoyable one.
Thank you:
Jimmy Rollins, for delivering the greatest walk-off that I’ve ever witnessed.
Shane Victorino, for you’re blazing speed and 100% hustle.
Chase Utley, for being the man.
Ryan Howard, for your 45 home runs and NLCS MVP.
Jayson Werth, for getting better offensively every year.
RAUUUUUUUUL, for a torrid first half.
Pedro Feliz, for your fine defense.
Carlos Ruiz, for your hard work behind the plate and giving us Choochtober.
Clifton Phifer Lee, for being an unbeLEEvable ace.
Brad Lidge, for always making it interesting.
Pedro Martinez, for surprising me (in a good way).
Ryan Madson, for your team-leading 26 holds.
Chan Ho Park, for always being reliable out of the bullpen.
Cole Hamels, for your two shutouts this year.
Eric Bruntlett, for turning an unassisted triple play.
J.A Happ, for being the rookie of the year.
Matt Stairs, for drawing key walks.
Joe Blanton, for being consistent.
Scott Eyre, for setting up some of Lidge’s saves.
Chad Durbin, for eating innings in relief.
Charlie Manuel, for being one of the greatest managers in Phillies history.
Ruben Amaro,
Scott Franzke and the entire broadcast team, for making great calls.
…and to all the other players who contrinuted to the National League pennant: thank you!
Six years ago, I never pictured the Phillies being in back-to-back World Series. The Phillies were awful in the late 1990’s and early 2000’s. However, those bad teams made me appreciate this 2009 team so much more. This may sound absurd, but I would NEVER trade one of those losses for 27 rings!
I feel lucky to be able to have seen the Phillies in back-to-back World Series. Thank you, Phillies, for a fantastic season. I can’t wait to see what the future brings. Let’s get to 28 before the Yankees do!
*I’d like to thank everybody who contrinuted to Phillies Nation this season. Tim, Brian, Pat, Jason, Nick, Ben, and Rob have done a terrific job this year! Thanks to you — the readers and fans — for representing the nation well!*
