Cole Hamels returns to Philly, funds city school project

Cole Hamels returned to Philadelphia Thursday, handing a $95,500 check from his family foundation to a city high school.

The money will help W.B. Saul High School for Agricultural Sciences repair and renovate its greenhouse facilities.

Hamels, a longtime Phillies ace who currently pitches for the Texas Rangers, was on hand with his wife, Heidi, plus Philadelphia School District officials, Saul teachers and students.

Lisa Blum, the school's horticulture teacher, said in a statement that the money would make a real difference at Saul.

"Through the generosity of the Hamels Foundation, WB Saul High School is excited to finally have amazing, fully-functioning greenhouse facilities that will allow our students to have an even greater experience and additional valuable resources," Blum said.

The Hamels Foundation focuses on education in Malawi and in the U.S. It has donated to a number of Philadelphia schools in the past.

Hamels himself hailed the school's work.

"Both Heidi and I are excited to continue our commitment to the city of Philadelphia and education for students in the community through the Hamels Foundation," Hamels said in the statement. "The project at WB Saul High School is a great example of what can be accomplished for learning by a dedicated group of teachers, students and administrators."