Today is David Price’s first day as a Detroit Tiger, and while most pro athletes would be focused on winning over the new home crowd, he made it clear this morning that he’ll never forget Tampa Bay.
Price took out a full-page ad in today’s Tampa Bay Times with the headline “Thank You, Tampa Bay.” It’s not just a quick see-ya note, either. He goes into detail about the people and communities he’ll miss now that he’s moved to the Motor City.
Perhaps most charmingly, the ad was co-signed by his dog, Astro, who has become almost as iconic as the Cy Young Award winner.
Check out the ad below, followed by the full text.
Hat tip to Fox Sports via NPR’s Scott Simon.
Thank you, St. Petersburg and thank you, Tampa. I’ve lived in both of you and enjoyed every minute.
Thank you, fans. I heard you ringing your bells each time I had two strikes. I heard your applause when I walked off the field. I heard your groans in support of me with close calls on balls and strikes. I heard you, I felt your presence, and I so appreciate you.
Thank you, Joe Maddon and Jim Hickey. You’ve believed in me. You’ve taught me. You’ve given me opportunities to shine. I will have you with me in every game the rest of my career.
Thank you, Cuz, Stanley Mc, Holmes, Foles, Davey, Shelty, Nelly Nel, and the amazing Don Zimmer. You’ve all meant so very much to me.
Thank you to my incredible Rays teammates. You have been my brothers and greatest friends. Thank you for our times together.
Thank you, Rick Vaughn, Westy, Ronnie P, Nation, and Vinword. I couldn’t have made it through a day without you guys.
Thank you, Rays organization. From Vinny in the parking lot, to Berte outside our clubhouse, to Papito, Beans, Champ, T-Wall, Sexy Black, Nasty Nate, and all the many wonderful people who helped and supported me each day I was at the Trop. Thank you for being there.
Thank you, Stu Sternberg and Andrew Friedman. Thank you for drafting me. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to know all of the people I’ve mentioned above and the opportunity to experience the last six years playing for the Tampa Bay Rays. I’ll forever be grateful.
Astro and I love you all. We miss you already. Although we begin a new chapter on the mound tonight, we will never forget you.
Love,
David & Astro Price
