THE CANADIAN PRESS

TORONTO — Former Blue Jays pitcher Roy Halladay took out a full-page ad Tuesday to thank Toronto and its fans.

Halladay, traded to the Philadelphia Phillies, said in the Toronto Sun ad that he felt "blessed" to have been part of the Blue Jays since 1995.

Said the right-hander: "Toronto will forever have a special place in my heart. The memories will last a lifetime and so will my gratitude."

Full text of the Halladay thank you ad:

My wife Brandy, sons Braden and Ryan, and I would like to express our deepest gratitude to the Toronto Blue Jays organization, its incredible fans, and the city of Toronto.

I feel blessed to have been part of the Blue Jays since 1995 and am extremely thankful for the opportunities it has provided. Throughout the past 15 years, there have been so many people within the organization that have made a wonderful and significant impact in my life, it would be impossible to name them all.

I am sincerely grateful for the incredible support and compassion the Blue Jays fans have shown me. I am in awe of your overwhelming passion and devotion.

Toronto will forever have a special place in my heart.

The memories will last a lifetime and so will my gratitude.

Best Regards,

Roy