A day after being released by the Pittsburgh Pirates, popular catcher Francisco Cervelli posted a message on social media directed at the city he called home for almost five years.
It could best be described as a love letter.
In a piece titled, “A letter to the city of Pittsburgh (my YINZ) … The city that captivated my heart,” the Italian Venezuelan penned 255 words of appreciation.
“When I think about you and try to express how I feel about you, I can’t help but describe you as my home, my love, and my family,” the message on Cervelli’s verified Instagram account read. “I have never felt so much love and respect as I have felt in this city.”
The message ended: “I love you Pittsburgh. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, please don’t change. Stay passionate and full of love.
“Thank you to my teammates, you guys are special to me, and warriors no matter what. I love you all.
“Thank you to my coaches and management for the best time of my life. #412forever.”
One of the final links to the Pirates’ most recent playoff team in 2015, Cervelli appeared in 450 games as the Pirates’ catcher.
Cervelli’s biggest on-field contributions were his defensive skills, but his popularity with fans and teammates were based more on his gregarious personality.
Many of Cervelli’s former teammates with the Pirates responded on social media with goodbyes of their own.
A message posted to the account of pitcher Trevor Williams read: “My president, (Cervelli) — Thank you for guiding me in my highs and lows. You made my job a lot easier because I was working with the best artist. I will not forget our time together. I can’t wait to share vino and cigars with you again”
Outfielder Gregory Polanco and infielder/outfielder Jose Osuna were among the other Pirates players who wrote words of appreciation for Cervelli.
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