Editorials

Jimmy Rollins Thanks Phillies Fans With Full-Page Ad

Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

After 18 years with the Philadelphia Phillies organization, Jimmy Rollins will enter a new phase in his career next season as he heads west to play for the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Rollins leaves the Phillies as the career leader in hits (2,306) and doubles (479), second in stolen bases (453) and games played (2,090) and third in runs scored (1,325). During his time in Philadelphia, the 36 year old was named the 2007 NL MVP, won four Gold Gloves, and helped the Phillies win the World Series in 2008.



In order to join the Dodgers, Rollins waived his no-trade clause, which he said Friday he was willing to for them, the New York Mets and Yankees; though added Los Angeles was his preferred destination. Although Rollins is older than Hanley Ramirez, he brings with him a better glove and grades out more favorably.

While his batting average dropped when compared to 2013, Rollins increase his home run and RBI totals, and OPS+ (101 — up from 86 in 2013). To show his appreciation for the time he spent in Philadelphia, Rollins took out a full-page ad in Saturday’s Philadelphia Inquire:

To the City of Philadelphia,
Words cannot begin to describe what these past 18 years as a Phillie have meant to me. Starting as a teenager from Northern California, becoming a husband and now a father of two beautiful children, I’ve spent nearly half of my life growing up in front of all of you.

We’ve shared a lot of great memories that I’ll cherish forever. From being the “team to beat,” to our great postseason run and raising that World Championship banner, it has been an honor playing in front of the most passionate fans in the world. You let us hear it when things got tough and you rocked “The Bank” when we needed you most.

It’d like to thank the countless staff members throughout the organization that have supported me and the Rollins Family Foundation over the years. We wouldn’t be where we are today without all of you.

To my teammates, you guys are family and always will be. There have been many to come and go over the years and I’ve enjoyed taking the field with each and every one of you. Chase, Hollywood, Chooch, Big Piece … brothers for life.

Lee Thomas, Ed Wade, Pat Gillick, Ruben Amaro and the managers that I’ve played for over the years, Tito, Larry, Charlie and Ryno; thank you for giving me the opportunity and making a kid from Alameda’s dream come true. Mr. Montgomery, thank you for everything.

Love you all! Peace.

Jimmy, Johari, Cam & Lolo

Staff Writer

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8 Comments

  1. It is Us, the PHillies Fhans that should thank you Jimmy! You ARE A CLASS ACT! We will miss you! Thanks for the memories!

  2. Jimmy Rollins is a true Philadelphia Phillie for life as he gave his all every game. He is a True Role Model not just for black children, but for all children who have dreams of being someone that makes a difference in this world. Great sportsman and good heart too. We will all miss your outstanding baseball skills, but most of all your big smile. Thanks for the 18 years here. See you soon. Good Luck !!

    1. I would agree with you that he is a Phillies for life. I would also hope that he does his best for the Dodger blue. Welcome aboard Jimmy. Hope that you prove our doubters wrong and that you will help us in our quest for a championship.

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