Jean Segura says farewell to Phillies fans after signing deal with Marlins.
Among the fan-favorite Philadelphia Phillies players in recent seasons — other than Bryce Harper and J.T. Realmuto — was second baseman Jean Segura.
The Phillies declined the 11-year veteran’s $17 million club option for the 2023 season, making him a free agent. Seeking a new home, Segura recently signed a two-year, $17 million contract with the division-rival Miami Marlins.
“El Mambo” took to social media on Wednesday to thank the Phillies organization and its fans with a heartfelt message:
"Thank you Philadelphia, to the organization and especially to the fans for the support for 4 years, you will always have a place in my heart. Thank you for living with me the dream of being in a postseason and reaching a World Series. God bless you.”"
Segura concluded his message by thanking the Marlins for the new opportunity. Moving forward, the Dominican Republic native is expected to field third base — a position he played only in parts of one season before in the majors.
Along with the post, Segura shared several photos, including the 2022 National League Championship team photo with him front and center on the Citizens Bank Park grass.
The Phillies acquired Segura — along with pitchers Juan Nicasio and James Pazos — from the Seattle Mariners in December 2018 in exchange for first baseman Carlos Santana and shortstop J.P. Crawford. The latter player was long thought to be the perennial Phillies shortstop before he was traded to the American League West. As it would turn out, four years later the organization would find that player in Trea Turner.
JIMMY CIGS!!!! pic.twitter.com/azLnNLJDZg
— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) October 7, 2022
The Phillies signing Turner is essentially the reason why Segura and the organization parted ways — given Alec Bohm, Bryson Stott and Rhys Hoskins are also locked into infield spots.
In 427 games in red pinstripes, Segura slashed .281/.337/.418 with 78 doubles, nine triples, 43 home runs and 176 RBI. His biggest moment with the team surely came in Game 1 of the National League Wild Card Series against the St. Louis Cardinals. He turned a potential 1-0 series deficit into momentum that would carry the team to two wins shy of a World Series championship. Best of luck in Miami, Jean!