Ryan Howard received his well-deserved farewell by the Phillies on Sunday afternoon. Howard had a successful career and a great fan following. He could have played for an American League team, but his last performances did not favor him and his fans started to realize that his career is coming to an end. They thanked him for his accomplishments and sent him farewell messages for his contribution to the sports world. The same approach was adopted by the online MLB odds.
Before Sunday’s 5-2 win for the Phillies, a pregame tribute was arranged for the legend. It came with a video and highlights of his biggest achievements and some memorable moments. Fans got a larger than life experience when they saw the teary eyes of his hero.
The farewell words of Howard were heart touching. He said that he was enjoying his game a lot without thinking about the achievements, organization, and anything. He was crazy about his game and he does not know how he is going to live in different circumstances. He was enjoying his achievements, the craziness of fans, people, videos, and life will not be same without all these things.
His wife, Krystle, was with him in this grand farewell. In this ceremony, Howard received a hand-painted glove listing some of his glorious achievements. He thanked all his fans and addressed the crowd. He paused for a moment and it was clearly visible that he was choked up while delivering his farewell address. He also received a standing ovation during this ceremony and before each bat. He also tripped his helmet to acknowledge his fans. After the bat, he received the standing ovation once again. This lasted around two minutes with a Ry-an- How-ard chant and also with a thank you message.
Howard got a great tribute for his thirteen years contribution to the Phillies. During this long journey, he has received many prestigious awards that include the 2005 National League Rookie of the Year, the 2006 NL MVP, and the 2009 NLCS MVP.
Though he said goodbye to the Phillies, but he will not say goodbye to baseball. He can continue playing in 2017 depending on the demands of the situation. Howard has not performed well in the last couple of years, especially when he tore his Achilles in the finals of the 2011 NLDS. But still, he got a most deserving farewell for his contribution. Without his performance, 2008 would not have been possible. He played well in the first decade of his career. But the last part of his career was a disappointment.
From this grand farewell ceremony, it is clear that Phillies said goodbye to the Big Piece, as he was called by Charlie Manuel. But he will always be remembered for his contribution and great performance. The fans will find it hard to forget the farewell message and the teary eyes of this legend.
Latest Comments