The man they called "Doc" truly was one of the best of his time and off the field he may have been even better.
On the field Halladay was one of only six pitchers to win a Cy Young in both the American and National League. In what became his 7th of 8 All Star seasons Doc threw a perfect game only to follow it up with the 2nd ever postseason no hitter. Pitching 2,700+ innings to a 203-105 win/loss record, Halladay posted a 3.38 career ERA. Becoming one of the most consistent pitchers of his time.
Growing up in Canada watching a struggling Blue Jays organization still trying to get back to their 92-93' glory days, Doc was the one thing you could look forward to every 5 games. The Colorado native had a strong passion for the game and had a drive to achieve all the glory that October brings. It's easy to appreciate the fact he stuck with the Blue Jays when he was at the top of his game and could essentially pick any contender he wanted to play for. He saw and, I believe, appreciated the fact that the Jays didn't give up on him when he struggled early on and therefore returned that loyalty when it would have been easy for him to go to a contending team. By becoming one of the most dominate pitchers of the decade and one of the best Blue Jays of all time. As a Canadian, It's easy to understand how hard it can be to prevent superstar athletes wanting to travel south of the border to continue playing America's pastime in America. So in the summer of 2009 when Halladay was traded to the Phillies although it may have been hard to let go, we understood. We still rooted for him and we all became temporary Phillies fans when he won his 2nd Cy Young in his first year as a Phillie. A whole nation cheered when he threw the 2nd ever postseason no hitter as we wanted the best for the man that gave us his best every time he stepped on the mound. A true workhorse.
In the wake of the tragic news it became more apparent how big of an impact Halladay had on so many people. Nominated for the Roberto Clemente award numerous times for his generous philanthropic work, Doc always stayed humble. Being born in Toronto's SickKids hospital myself, I always respected the work Roy did to benefit the young children and encourage them to overcome whatever adversity they were faced with. While in Toronto, one of Roy's many off the field accomplishments was running his "Doc's Box" program which hosted sick children during Blue Jays games. In his 12 year tenure Roy and his wife Brandy donated $1.2 million a year to the Jays care foundation.
It was this generosity that made him such an admirable man. Many looked up to him and his calm demeanour that seemed at times could never be shook. He made it easy to root for him no matter what team you cheered for. He is the kind of athlete you tell your kids to look up to and strive to be both on and off the field. He was your favourite player's favourite player.
They say "heroes get remembered, legends never die". Halladay's legacy will live on in Cooperstown.
We mourn with the baseball world after the passing of a true legend.
With all the accolades that came with Halladay's baseball career he accomplished just as much off the field. He was a loving husband, father and friend.
Although it's never easy to say goodbye to anyone, especially at the young age of 40 and leaving behind a grieving wife and 2 young boys. Doc was inspired by his father a commercial pilot, to become a pilot himself which he aspired to become one ever since he was a young boy. On November 7th, Halladay went out doing what he loved.
Thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, Brandy and their two boys Ryan and Braden.