Hamels Says Goodbye: 'Some Of The Best Memories I've Ever Had'

By Andrew Porter

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- After 10 seasons as a Philadelphia Phillie, Cole Hamels said goodbye on Friday afternoon.

"Some of the best memories that I've ever had," Hamels said. "This is where I've had to grow.

"Being able to play in front of the numerous sellouts during that time was anything and everything that anybody could ever ask for being an athlete," he continued. "To be able to bring a World Championship here was that much more special because of what I think we all go to see in that parade.

"It's been one of the most joyous that, not only myself, but family has been able to be a part of."

Hamels, 31, was traded to the Texas Rangers along with reliever Jake Diekman, 28, and cash considerations in exchange for pitcher Matt Harrison, 29, and five prospects.

For Hamels, he wanted to make the right choice for himself and his family.

"You don't ever want to say no to anybody," Hamels admitted, when asked about strong reports indicating that he vetoed a trade to the Houston Astros. "I think my wife and I, we really sat down for a month and we really polled the nine teams that we had on our trade list. We had criteria that was pages full. You just want to make sure you're making the best decision."

Hamels, the No. 17 overall pick in the 2002 draft of the Phillies, was homegrown working his way up this Phillies' minor league system, debuting on May 12th, 2006. The San Diego, California native leaves Philadelphia as a beloved three-time all-star, a four-time top-10 Cy Young finisher, a 2008 NLCS MVP, and a 2008 World Series MVP.

"The motto's always been the Fightin' Phils, I believe in that and I've lived that," Hamels said.

Diekman also said goodbye via Twitter, thanking Phillies fans.