Read Ryan Howard's Thank You Letter To Philly

PHILADELPHIA – Philadelphians still hold players such as Chase Utley, Shane Victorino, and others on the 2008 World Series-wining team in very high regard. And Ryan Howard, a key factor in that team's success, is now saying thank you to the City of Brotherly Love.

Howard, the Phillies former first basman and slugger, penned a thank you letter to the city, which was published online in The Players Tribune Tuesday.

"It’s been 14 years, almost to the day," Howard, 38, writes in his piece. "September 1st, 2004 — that was the first time that I set foot inside the Phillies’ clubhouse: home against the Braves, during Citizens Bank Park’s inaugural season, for my Major League debut."

The Phillies legend, born and bred in Missouri, goes on to describe how the East Coast city, and its people and fans, carved a spot in his heart.

"... When I’d hear that Philadelphia was 'hard on its players,' it’s funny — I’d just be like, Alright, well, that’s my kind of town," he writes. "I related to that. Because as much as I was this big, quiet, laid-back kid from St. Louis, at heart….. I was also hard on myself, in a way, you know? And I mean that in the best sense possible. To me, 'being hard on yourself' — it’s just another way of saying 'having passion for the game.' It’s just another way of saying 'high expectations.' It’s that hunger to win, shining through.

"And I saw Philly as having that hunger to win — same as mine."

Howard earned many accolades with the Phillies. He was a three-time all star, the National League Rookie of the Year during his debut season in 2005, the National League MVP, a three-time home run leader, and more, all with the Phils.

Oh, and a World Series Champion.

He hung up his Phillies ball cap on Oct. 2, 2016.

Howard thanked many people in his piece; from his teammate who he said became brothers; his wife and children; baseball in general; and of course Philadelphia and its passionate fans.

"And thank you, from the bottom of my heart, to the most passionate group of fans in the world," he wrote. "Y’all took a chance on this big, quiet kid from St. Louis — and for that I’ll always be grateful."

Read Howard's full piece here.

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