Philadelphia Phillies History on December 27

  • December 27, 1966 – The Phillies signed infielder Toby Harrah out of high school. It was assumed he would go to college to play football, but a Phillies scout discovered he wouldn’t be attending college. After two minor league seasons with the Phillies, Harrah was selected by the Washington Senators in the minor league phase of the Rule 5 Draft. Harrah would go on to have a 17-year major league career. He went with the Senators when they moved to Texas and became the Rangers, playing 11 seasons with the franchise.
  • December 27, 2024 – The Phillies signed infielder Rafael Lantigua to a minor-league contract. The 27-year-old has played eight seasons in the minors without getting an opportunity to play in the majors.

Phillies personnel born on December 27

  • Cole Hamels (born 1983) – A left-handed pitcher who spent the first 9½ seasons of his career with the Phillies, Hamels was a key part of the club’s 2008 World Series championship run and remains one of the franchise’s most accomplished pitchers. He is on the BBWAA Hall of Fame ballot for the first time this season.
  • Michael Bourn (born 1982) – Outfielder originally drafted and signed by the Phillies, Bourn was traded by Philadelphia to the Astros in the deal that brought Brad Lidge to the Phillies; he went on to become a multiple-time stolen base leader in the Major Leagues.

A DEEPER DIVE… Cole Hamels

Cole Hamels arrived in professional baseball with enormous expectations. Selected by the Philadelphia Phillies with the 17th overall pick in the 2002 MLB Draft, Hamels was viewed as a potential frontline starter almost immediately. A polished left-hander from San Diego, he combined a smooth delivery with a devastating changeup that scouts believed would neutralize hitters at every level. Injuries slowed his early development, but the Phillies stayed patient, convinced that his upside justified the wait.

Hamels debuted in the majors in 2006, quickly establishing himself as more than just a promising arm. Even as a rookie, he showed advanced command and poise, traits that would define his career. By 2007, he was a fixture in the Phillies rotation, helping the club return to postseason contention after a long playoff drought.

Hamels truly emerged as the Phillies’ ace in 2008. That season, he went 14–10 with a 3.09 ERA and struck out 196 hitters, anchoring a rotation that powered Philadelphia to the postseason. In October, Hamels elevated his game even further, dominating the Brewers in the Division Series, outdueling the Dodgers in the NLCS, and then delivered two critical starts against the Rays in the World Series.

His Game 5 performance in Tampa Bay was the defining moment of his career. Hamels pitched six strong innings in a clinching victory, earning World Series MVP honors and cementing his place in Phillies history. It is worth noting that while the Phillies’ 1980 championship team holds a special place in franchise lore, Hamels was a central figure in the 2008 title run, which became the second World Series championship in club history.

Postseason Performer

Hamels’ reputation as a big-game pitcher extended well beyond 2008. In the 2009 postseason, he again played a key role as the Phillies returned to the World Series, defeating the Dodgers in the NLCS for a second straight year. Although Philadelphia fell short against the Yankees, Hamels continued to show that he was capable of handling the pressure of October baseball.

In 2010 and 2011, even as the Phillies assembled one of the most dominant rotations in recent memory, Hamels remained a cornerstone. He delivered strong postseason outings and consistently matched up against the opposing team’s best starters. His calm demeanor and ability to execute his pitches under pressure made him one of the most trusted arms on the staff.

Peak Years and a Signature Season

Hamels reached another peak in 2012, arguably the finest regular season of his career. He finished 17–6 with a 3.05 ERA, threw his first career no-hitter against the Cubs, and showcased his full repertoire at an elite level. That performance earned him a five-year contract extension with the Phillies, signaling the organization’s belief that he would remain their ace well into the next competitive window.

Even as the Phillies transitioned from contenders to a rebuilding club, Hamels continued to pitch at a high level. He provided stability during difficult seasons and served as a bridge between the championship core and the next generation of players. His professionalism and consistency made him a respected presence in the clubhouse.

Later Career and Legacy

In 2015, Hamels was traded to the Texas Rangers, bringing an end to his long tenure in Philadelphia. He went on to enjoy additional success with the Rangers and later the Cubs, including another no-hitter in 2015. Though injuries eventually shortened the back end of his career, Hamels’ body of work remained impressive.

With the Phillies, Hamels compiled 114 wins, a 3.30 ERA, and more than 1,700 strikeouts. He ranks among the franchise’s all-time leaders in several pitching categories and is widely regarded as one of the best left-handers in team history. More importantly, he was the driving force behind one of the greatest moments the franchise has ever experienced.

Hamels is remembered not just for his numbers, but for his timing. He was at his best when the Phillies needed him most, particularly during the 2008 championship run. His postseason success, highlighted by his World Series MVP award, sets him apart from many great regular-season pitchers.

For Phillies fans, Hamels represents a golden era of sustained success and October baseball. His legacy is tied forever to red pinstripes, champagne-soaked clubhouses, and the feeling that when he took the mound, the Phillies had a real chance to win.

Hamels is on the Hall of Fame ballot for the first time this offseason. Does he deserve to be enshrined at Cooperstown? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

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