Cole Hamels
Colbert Michael Hamels (born December 27, 1983) is a former American professional baseball pitcher who played for the Philadelphia Phillies from 2006 to 2015. He was the ace of the Phillies' championship rotation and won both NLCS MVP and World Series MVP honors during the team's 2008 championship run.
Career with Philadelphia
[edit | edit source]The Phillies selected Hamels in the first round (17th overall) of the 2002 MLB Draft. After recovering from injuries that delayed his debut, he arrived in the major leagues in 2006 and quickly established himself as one of baseball's elite pitchers.
2008 Championship Season
[edit | edit source]Hamels was dominant during the Phillies' 2008 postseason run:
- NLDS vs. Milwaukee: 2 starts, 2 wins
- NLCS vs. Los Angeles: 2 starts, 2 wins, NLCS MVP
- World Series vs. Tampa Bay: 2 starts, 2 wins, World Series MVP
His 4-0 record with a 1.80 ERA throughout the playoffs earned him World Series MVP honors, cementing his status as a Philadelphia legend.[1]
Career Highlights with Phillies
[edit | edit source]- 3-time All-Star (2007, 2011, 2012)
- Led NL in complete games (2007)
- No-hitter vs. Chicago Cubs (July 25, 2015, his final Phillies start)
- 114-90 record with Phillies
- Franchise leader in strikeouts at time of trade
Playing Style
[edit | edit source]Hamels was known for:
- Elite changeup (considered among the best in baseball)
- Excellent control and pitch sequencing
- Big-game temperament
- Durability and consistency
Trade and Later Career
[edit | edit source]On July 31, 2015, Hamels threw a no-hitter against the Cubs, then was traded to the Texas Rangers in a package deal. He later played for the Cubs and Braves before retiring.
The trade marked the end of an era for the Phillies, as Hamels was the last remaining core player from the championship years.
Philadelphia Legacy
[edit | edit source]Despite playing for other teams, Hamels is best remembered as a Phillie:
- MVP of the 2008 championship
- Face of the franchise during the glory years
- Formed "Four Aces" rotation with Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee, and Roy Oswalt
- Clutch performer in biggest moments
His World Series MVP performance against the Rays gave Philadelphia its first championship in 28 years and created memories that endure among Phillies fans.
See Also
[edit | edit source]References
[edit | edit source]- ↑ "Hamels named World Series MVP". ESPN. October 29, 2008