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Phillies Share Sentimental Gift With Jeff Hoffman After Reunion

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matthew Sullivan | Last updated Jun 4, 2025 1:15 PM ET

Jeff Hoffman was a beloved member of the Philadelphia Phillies. After his departure in free agency following the 2024 season, the Phillies team held onto a sentimental belonging of Hoffman's, waiting for the eventual reunion.

Matt Gelb of The Athletic shared the story surrounding Hoffman and the Phillies, and the story behind the sentimental belonging that found its way into Hoffman's Toronto Blue Jays locker amid their reunion.

"A few Phillies people accidentally discovered Hoffman Ave." Gelb wrote. "A small road in West Philly near Cobbs Creek Park - early in the 2024 season. Someone dared someone else to procure a sign for Hoffman. But he had to do something to earn it. They all settled on this: If Hoffman made the All-Star team, it would happen."

The Phillies reliever then put together an incredible start to the 2024 season, earning himself his first All-Star nod across his nine-year career up until that point. Hoffman earned the sign, and it appeared in the Phillies' clubhouse during the summer.

But when Hoffman left in free agency to join the Blue Jays, the "Hoffman Ave." sign remained behind in Philadelphia. Though not for long.

The Phillies made the trip up to Toronto and met up with Hoffman for a reunion for the first time since his free agency departure. No one from the Phillies let Hoffman know that sitting back in his locker was the Hoffman Ave. sign.

When Hoffman showed up for the first game of the Blue Jays-Phillies series, he was surprised to see the sign sitting in his locker. "It was in my locker this morning," Hoffman said. "I don't know."

The Phillies and Hoffman may no longer be together, but the team shared a sentimental gift with him amid their reunion. Hoffman holds a special place in the hearts of Phillies fans and the organization. While the two sides couldn't come together on a new deal, there is no animosity between Hoffman and the Phillies.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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