Love Letters From Pronk is an ongoing series where Pronk shares his love for somebody connected to the Cubs. Sometimes funny, sometimes weird, sometimes touching, Pronk likes to make 100% sure people know that they are loved, and best expresses that through gushing letters. Today's recipient: Jason Hammel
Jason Hammel was a starting pitcher for the Chicago Cubs, including the 2016 world championship team. He was a stable part of the lower rotation, filling some key innings and saving the bullpen. He had a 3.59 ERA in 78 starts as a Cub. He was also known for his affinity for potato chips.
Dear Jason,
Thank you for playing a role in the 2016 championship team. Thank your for pitching well, locking down a few games, and eating up a ton of innings. Your stability helped contribute to a great pitching staff unit that year. Just because you didn't get into any playoff games does not mean your accomplishments were forgotten. The entire pitching staff that year had to be good, from top to bottom. Everyone had to pull their weight, including the bottom of the rotation.
Your accomplishments go beyond just 2016. There was the great half season in 2014, and a solid 2015 campaign as well. Your best pitching came in a Cubs uniform. We loved having you here.
I'm glad you became a part of the Marquee Sports team. While 2020 was anything but typical, the Marquee sports team covered Cubs games in new and exciting ways, and was a true bright spot. I hope to see more of you there.
I hope you enjoy your retirement. It is well earned.
XOXO,
Pronk
PS: what are your top 5 potato chips?