Cole Hamels got a warm reception on his return to Citizens Bank Park
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When the Phillies traded Cole Hamels to the Rangers in 2015, the lefty departed Philly on top and not just because of the multiple All-Star selections and the 2008 World Series MVP. His last start for the Phillies was a no-hitter against the Cubs at Wrigley Field.
So when the Cubs visited Citizens Bank Park on Friday night for the start of a three-game series against the Phillies, Philadelphia fans gave Hamels the ovation they never had the chance to following that 2015 no-hitter ... and he reciprocated their love:
It's not the first time Hamels has gotten some love in a return to Philly. Over the winter, he stopped by a Sixers game and got the attention of the crowd.
Hamels is not scheduled to pitch in this series, so he'll likely have to wait a bit longer to make his first post-Phillies start at CBP. Even when he does pitch against the Phillies, he could still receive a warm welcome. Just ask the retiring Chase Utley.