### Always in Our Hearts: Barry Bowa
#### A Surprising Letter from Philadelphia
Philadelphia, PA,
July 5, 2024
To the Esteemed Fans of Philadelphia,
It is with a heavy heart that I write to you today, sharing news that I had not imagined I would be delivering at this point in my career. After much contemplation and consideration, I have decided to accept a new position that will take me away from the city and team I hold so dear. This decision has not come easily, nor without a torrent of emotions, for Philadelphia has been my home, my heart, and my identity for many years.
Over the decades, I have been proud to be a part of the Phillies organization, from my days as a player to my roles in coaching and beyond. The city’s passion, loyalty, and resilience have always been the bedrock of my love for this team and its incredible supporters. The memories we have created together, the victories we have celebrated, and even the defeats we have endured, have all contributed to an unforgettable journey.
However, life is full of unexpected turns, and it is one such turn that now leads me away from you. I have been offered an extraordinary opportunity to join a new team in a capacity that promises both professional growth and personal fulfillment. This new chapter will take me to the New York Yankees organization, where I will assume the role of Senior Advisor to Baseball Operations.
I understand that this news may come as a shock to many of you. Trust me, it is a surprise to me as well. The decision was not made lightly. My love for Philadelphia and the Phillies is profound and enduring. Yet, the allure of a new challenge, the prospect of contributing to a storied franchise like the Yankees, and the chance to impart my experience and knowledge to a new generation of players were opportunities I felt compelled to embrace.
Philadelphia is not just a city where I worked; it is where I built a life. The friendships and bonds formed here are unbreakable. The roars of Citizens Bank Park, the sea of red and white, the unwavering spirit of the fans—these are things that will forever be etched in my heart. As I transition to this new role, I carry with me countless memories of our time together, memories that have shaped who I am both personally and professionally.
The Philadelphia Phillies have always been more than just a baseball team to me. They have been family. The players, the staff, the management, and most importantly, the fans, have given me a sense of belonging and purpose. You all have been the driving force behind my dedication and passion for the game. It is your enthusiasm, your undying support, and your belief in me that have made this journey so incredibly rewarding.
I want to take this moment to extend my deepest gratitude to every single one of you. Thank you for welcoming me into your hearts, for standing by me through thick and thin, and for sharing in the highs and lows of our baseball journey. Your support has been my greatest source of inspiration and motivation. I am eternally grateful for the love and respect you have shown me over the years.
To the players, past and present, it has been an honor to stand beside you on the field and in the dugout. Your talent, dedication, and camaraderie have been a constant source of pride. To the coaching staff and management, thank you for your trust and collaboration. Together, we have strived to bring glory to this beloved franchise.
As I embark on this new adventure, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and a spirit ready for the challenges ahead. I hope to make you proud in my new role and to continue honoring the values and principles that have been the foundation of my career in baseball. Though I will be donning new colors, my connection to Philadelphia remains unbreakable.
In closing, I ask for your understanding and support as I transition into this new phase of my career. While I may no longer be with the Phillies in an official capacity, I will always be a part of the Phillies family. Philadelphia has given me more than I could ever have asked for, and I will carry that with me wherever I go.
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for everything. You will always be in my thoughts, and I will always be cheering for the Phillies, no matter where I am.
With deepest respect and heartfelt appreciation,
Barry Bowa
