Editing Jimmy Rollins (section)

== Championship Leadership ==

Rollins's "team to beat" declaration before the 2007 season, which generated mockery from the defending champion Cardinals, demonstrated the confidence that characterized his approach. The Phillies' subsequent success—winning the NL East that year and continuing through the 2008 championship—vindicated proclamations that seemed premature when uttered. His willingness to make bold claims reflected belief that eventually proved justified.<ref name="westcott"/>

The 2008 championship represented the culmination of the franchise's rebuilding and Rollins's individual excellence. His contributions throughout the playoff run, though less individually prominent than some teammates', provided foundation that the team's success required. The championship celebrated by Philadelphia belonged to the core that Rollins had helped lead, his presence spanning the team's development from struggling franchise to champions.<ref name="goldman"/>

His departure following the 2014 season ended a tenure that had produced franchise records and championship memories. The trade to the Dodgers concluded Philadelphia years that had established him as one of the franchise's greatest players. The records he held—2,306 hits, most in franchise history—documented production that subsequent players will struggle to match given changing roster dynamics and free agency.<ref name="westcott"/>