Former Phillies pitcher Roy Halladay dies in plane crash
By Dan Parzych
A sad day in the baseball world after former Philadelphia Phillies and Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Roy Halladay died in a plane crash on Tuesday.
Fans of the Philadelphia Phillies and baseball in general heard the devastating news on Tuesday afternoon in regards to Roy Halladay after the former pitcher died after his plane crashed in the Gulf of Mexico. He was only 40.
After spending 12 years as a member of the Toronto Blue Jays, the Phillies acquired Halladay in a trade before the 2010 season join what was already considered a dominant rotation led by Cole Hamels. Not to mention, Philadelphia had earned trips to the World Series in each of the previous two seasons, so there was plenty of excitement surrounding the move to land Halladay when looking at what he was able to accomplish in the 12 years with the Blue Jays.
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From the Phillies organization to sports writers who have gotten to know Halladay over the years, fans of the former ace responded to the news on social media. One thing is certain, which is Doc was definitely one of a kind, special individual.
Phillies statement on the sudden & tragic passing of Roy Halladay: pic.twitter.com/gGhv7JUKv0
— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) November 7, 2017
Gone too soon my friend!!! Blessed to have shared the field with you as a teammate, competitor, friend and more importantly a brother. Praying for Brandy, Ryan and Brayden🙏🏽
— Shane Victorino (@ShaneVictorino) November 7, 2017
Love you Doc #RIP pic.twitter.com/AXlha1YdUA
— John Barchard (@JohnBarchard) November 7, 2017
RIP Roy Doc Halladay, a true baseball great and a man with a generous heart.Our thoughts and prayers are with Roy and his family during this difficult time. We were blessed to have known him and consider him to be a member of our family. We are grateful for his love and support. pic.twitter.com/wMprVclFtC
— Pasco Sheriff (@PascoSheriff) November 7, 2017
Even though the Phillies failed to earn that third trip in a row to the World Series in 2010, what Halladay was able to do in his first year with the team was simply amazing to witness. Not only did Halladay throw a perfect game at one point during the regular season, but he would end up throwing a no-hitter during his first career postseason game against the Cincinnati Reds later on in October during Game 1 of the NLDS.
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Any Philadelphia fan will describe Halladay as one of the most respected athletes to ever play in the city, and there’s no question he will truly be missed after hearing this heartbreaking news. From Phillies fans and sports fans in general, thoughts and prayers go out to the Halladay family during this difficult time.