Jhoan Duran Keeps His Number 59 with the Phillies, Rob Thomson Gives In with Humor
The arrival of Jhoan Duran to the Philadelphia Phillies generated a peculiar situation regarding the uniform number that the closer wanted to keep. The story, full of sentimentality and a touch of humor, involves the team’s manager, Rob Thomson, and the importance of the number 59 for Duran. The number 59 holds significant sentimental value for Duran, even engraved in the design of the family pool in the Dominican Republic. When his possible transfer was announced, his wife, Aidra Duran, was on the verge of tears at the possibility of him losing his number. Fortunately for Aidra, and for Jhoan’s peace of mind, number 59 remained in his possession. Duran was able to show off his new Phillies uniform with the number he cherishes so much, marking the start of a three-game series against Detroit. However, the situation generated an unexpected reaction in Michele Thomson, wife of manager Rob Thomson. Rob’s first contact with the bullpen, in relation to Duran, was to confirm the availability of number 59, which belonged to the manager. Unlike past situations, where elaborate agreements were required, such as the exchange of John Kruk for two boxes of beer, Thomson gladly gave up the number.Thomson, who took number 49 in honor of Yankees star Ron Guidry, shared his wife’s reaction with a smile. Duran, for his part, was respectful in requesting the number, and Thomson, who has led the Phillies to three consecutive playoff appearances, did not hesitate to give it up.The only annoying person right now is my wife. All her merchandise is at 59. Now she has to buy new things.
Rob Thomson
Duran, 27 years old, arrives at the Phillies after a standout season with the Minnesota Twins, where he accumulated 16 saves and an ERA of 2.01 in 49 appearances. In 49 innings and one-third, he struck out 53 batters. The transfer was finalized on Wednesday in exchange for two minor league players.The number doesn’t really mean much to me. But if it makes you feel better, I totally agree. He said, ‘yes’. So it’s all yours.
Rob Thomson
