Mark Shapiro

This is a group that almost savored having their backs against the wall.

They had to win four in a row the last four games of the season to a very pivotal result.

AL East Championship that was meaningful to the stretch run and the postseason run.

They had their backs against the wall 0-2 in the ALCS, multiple elimination games, and they always responded.

And they noticed that toughness.

They noticed that grit, that resilience, that determination, and ultimately what it meant to be a teammate.

So it wasn't just that the team won.

It was how they won.

It wasn't just that they were the players in the field as they accomplished some championships and great things.

It was what they stood for as they did it.

And ultimately, you could watch them play the game

And everything else around the game and know what their identity was as a team and know what our identity was as an organization.

And I think each of us throughout the country saw us in them.

They saw the things that were inspired us, the things that lift us, the reasons to believe, the reasons to feel belonging and a part of something.

And.

As I sought to move forward, my overall overarching sentiment was one of gratitude.

You know, first and foremost for our players and our staff for the unbelievable and exceptional effort they gave throughout the entire season for the expectations they exceeded.

No one expected them to do what they did and for their belief in each other and for the fans they played for.

Secondly, for our fans, you know, they were truly an extra player for us.

They lifted us.