Popular former Phillies player Shane Victorino returned to town this week and received a standing ovation from Phillies fans on Opening Day as his Boston Red Sox came to town. Victorino also happens to be a Dallas Cowboys fan. While in town, Victorino reached out to one of his favorite team's former players about Philadelphia.
Randy Miller of NJ.com detailed how Victorino reached out to new Eagles running back DeMarco Murray:
"I tell athletes all the time … (and) I texted DeMarco when he signed here," Victorino said Monday…"I said, 'If there's a city that you want to win in and understand how important as an athlete it is to win in a city like this with them falling in love with you as an athlete … this is one of the best.' I'm very appreciative."
"When you talk about winning in a city like (Philadelphia) and to be loved as an athlete, that's what it's all about," Victorino added. "It's fun. I said, 'DeMarco, go do what you do, and you'll be fine.' I mean, he's going to be loved here (in Philadelphia)."
While Phillies fans are probably not too thrilled to hear of Victorino's Cowboys allegiance, the good word about Philadelphia surely is appreciated.
Victorino played for the Phillies from 2005 through July, 2012, when he was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers. Victorino signed a three-year free agent contract with the Boston Red Sox prior to the 2013 season and helped them to their 2013 World Series victory over the St. Louis Cardinals. Philadelphia, though, appears to maintain a soft spot in Victorino's heart.