Yes, we respect him a great deal, especially those like myself that were fam8iliar with him in Chicago. For the most part, Phillies fans are pretty baseball savy, so most knew what we were getting, but we were happy to see Thome go, knowing he would do well in the DH league, and thus giving rookie of the year Ryan Howard free run at first and a perminate spot in the lineup. Thome's injuries and inability to move the way he wanted in the field was hurting us, and him. A true centerfielder has been missing from the Phillies equation for sometime, and no one was more excited to aquire Rowand than I. Also, because I like and admire Thome, I was happy to see him go to the Sox and get a chance to be a contributor and hero. He is not disappointing the fans there, just like Rowand is not disappointing the fans here.
For the casual Phillies fan that didn't know what they were getting are growing more and more impressed with him with each game. his offensive production is starting to catch fire and his play in the field is amazing, and the fans realize it here. The play he made tonight single-handedly won the game for us tonight and helped take 2 of 3 from the hated Mets, putting us only 2 games out of first, which is very pleasing considering our poor start...huge win and series. Breaking his nose catching a fly ball saving three runs will be the talk of the town tomorrow and he should become a household name in another month or so, should his play continue to stay on course....and I for one believe it will!!
Phillies have won 10 of last 11....this one thanks to Aaron!! Get well soon, you are already being missed.