Philip Humber made history with the Chicago White Sox last year, and he hasn't forgotten who helped him along the way.
On April 21, 2012, the former Rice Owl pitched a perfect game against the Seattle Mariners, becoming the 21st in MLB history to achieve perfection.
Following the game, Humber made sure to thank his alma mater, where he won a national championship in 2003.
"He wrote a letter … unsolicited really … thanking us and we recognized immediately that was kind of a unique letter," Rice head baseball coach Wayne Graham said.
That letter is now part of a plaque, which was unveiled in February at Reckling Park, commemorating Humber's perfect game.
"This thing to me is more about my experience here and what coach Graham did for me," Humber said. "It had to do with the perfect game, but I think that just gave me an opportunity to express my feelings to him. He means a lot to me, but also the time I got to spend here."
Mailing letters won't be necessary anymore. Humber joined the Houston Astros in the offseason and can now pay coach Graham a visit to continue to show his appreciation.
"It's very heartwarming for us," coach Graham said. "For someone to feel that we've made a difference in their lives."
