A Fan’s Letter to Jimmy Rollins…

by Phanatic Addict, PhilaPhans’ Contributor

Dear Jimmy,

First let me open up by saying that I am extremely grateful for the efforts that you have made in the past to the team that I love, and in the commumity that I live in. Your charitable efforts have blessed so many children in the community. From your efforts with Prevent Child Abuse Pennsylvania, to your involvement in the RBI program. You have helped so many children in our area and we are forever in your debt. Thank you.

So let’s get to the reason that I’m writing this letter to you. Sure, I’m a sports writer, but I’m also a Phillies fan. I follow you on Twitter, and I’m sure you’re pleased to know we’re friends on Facebook. I’ve worn your #11 jersey on my back, and I have your bobblehead on my writing desk. You’re my Shortstop. You’re our Shortstop, and I’d like to keep it that way.

I see how different fans are taking this situation different ways. They want more offensive production from our team, especially in the Postseason. I do too. However, what I have been trying to convey to the people that will listen is that in losing out on you we’d be losing out on your excellent defense. Honestly I think you save as many runs, as you score. At 33 you still have a rocket for an arm, and a .988 fielding percentage. Offensively, you’re probably not my first choice for a lead off hitter anymore, but still want to see your swagger and speed toward the top of the lineup.

I guess what bothers me so much about this whole production is how you’re starting to drag it out. Honestly, I am getting concerned that the fans may turn on you. I suspect that you see all the horrible comments that follow each of your daily (and pointless) Facebook posts. A lot of these fans remain optimistic, like me, but you’re really starting to rub people the wrong way.

I was pumped to see you at the Temple game the other night, and I’m glad to see that you’re still rooting for the Eagles (You might be the only one) but don’t think for one second that you’re fooling anyone. You’re putting the team in a tough position where they will eventually need to give you an ultimatum, and I think it’s coming sooner than you think. You’re handicapping the team from making any other major moves, and if you are planning on re-signing that effects you, too.

I totally agree that you gave the Phillies a discount with your last contract, but I think that you need to be realistic about this one, too. A five year deal just isn’t in the cards. Annually you will be taking home more money and who knows, maybe you’ll be able to work out one last deal with the Phillies before your career is over.

So what I’m asking of you is to stop dragging it out, and re-sign with the Phillies. This city loves you… Show us you love it back. Ten years from now there should be a number 11 out on the wall of Ashburn Alley along with 1, 14, 20, 32, 36, and 42. Make it happen.

Sincerely,

Michael Herman

A.K.A The Phanatic Addict.

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To the Phillies faithful. Feel free to send me your feedback and stop by my other blog. Also, I’m hoping that you’ll follow my lead and forward a link to this page to Jimmy via his Facebook, and to his Twitter letting him know that you agree.

Short URL: http://philaphans.com/phillies/?p=18320

Posted by Michael Herman on Dec 15 2011. Filed under Breaking News, Phanatic Addict, Phillies, Phillies News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry