Four months after leading the Philadelphia Phillies to a World Series Championship, Cole Hamels may have achieved himself into superstar stature with sports fans and the media all across the country.
From David Letterman to SI’s front cover, to a new condo that over looks Citizen’s Bank Park and the entire City of Brotherly Love, there is no question that his “celeb” status is on the rise. And you have to agree he has earned it!
Colbert Michael Hamels (his real name) has proven himself as a big game pitcher, performing nothing short of stellar not only during the World Series, but also taking control of the road, driving the “Fightin Phils” to the big dance.
Hamels went 4-0 during last season’s championship run and was named the Most Valuable Player of the 2008 World Series and National League Championship Series, helping the team accomplish its first championship since 1980.
On January 18th, 2009 Hamels agreed with the Phillies on a 3-year contract that will net the starter more than $20 million; a move that each and every Phillies fan hoped and anticipated.
As a native of San Diego, he attended Meadowbrook Middle School and Rancho Bernardo High School where during his junior year he fractured his arm while making a play. Even though the San Diego Padres were actively scouting Hamels, the injury deterred the organization from interest in the lefty. Hamels continued to battle injuries through his high school and Minor careers.
In 2002, Hamels entered the draft and was picked in the 1st round by the Phillies. His Minor League career was plague with injuries, but somehow he managed to keep active and advance to higher levels until he was finally called up to the Phillies in May of 2006 for a game against the Cincinatti Reds.
In his MLB debut, he pitched five scoreless innings in which he allowed only one hit, striking out seven batters and walking five. His debut was scored as a no-decision when reliever Ryan Madson gave up a 2-run lead. Not a bad start.
So where does the condo come in? With more money and fame, more personal luxuries become plenty. Cole Hamels and his wife recently purchased a magnificent penthouse apartment in Two Liberty Place, Philadelphua, that is nothing short of magnificent. Take a tour and see for yourself, courtesy of the Inquirer.
From humongous glass windows to gorgeous hardwood floors, to a view that could be considered one of the greatest visuals of the entire city, you could say that Hamels and his beautiful wife Heidi Strobel have it made.
Strobel is also no stranger to the spotlight. After placing fifth on the sixth season of the reality TV show Survivor, herself and companion Jenna Morasca appeared together in the August 2003 issue of Playboy magazine. Ask Cole about it when you get the chance!
Despite all of the luxuries, Hamels has been said to be focused on the 2009 season more than ever, arriving in Clearwater FL., a few days ago. A few sources close to Hamels said that the new proclaimed superstar seems to be very focused on topping his numbers from last year hoping for another trip to the World Series.
On the first day of spring training, when asked who the Opening Day starter would be, Phillies manager Charlie Manuel responded:
“Yeah, you might as well go ahead and pencil him in. I don’t think there’s any sense in me playing games. Go ahead, pencil him in.”
As a pitcher who’s “stuff” is just down right nasty, Hamels has been said to engage in offseason workouts that have lasted more than six hours per day. His dedication to the team and leadership is none like any other.
As a Phillies fan I saw Cole’s career begin in Philadelphia, and I along with millions of Phillies fans, hope to see #35 on the mound for many years to come!
Maybe even one day, he will invite me over to his condo to check our his view of the city over a few cheese steaks. Who knows! One thing I do know is that the Phillies will be in great shape with the talent and leadership of Cole Hamels kicking off their starting rotation.
will you married me sweetheart