Despite living in California for nearly four decades, Springfield native and baseball lifer Mike Scioscia is still devoted to Delaware County and Philadelphia, writes Frank Fitzpatrick for the Philadelphia Inquirer.

The former Dodgers catcher and Angels manager has held onto the accent, the attitude, and passion for his old hometown. He still watches Philadelphia Eagles games with the same passion, coaching from his couch like many other fans.

“I take Philly with me everywhere,” said Scioscia. “It’s just a special place. I love it.”

The Springfield High graduate was the longest-tenured manager in Major League Baseball until he walked away after the end of his 10-year, $50 million contract with the Angels. He guided the Angels to the 2002 World Series championship.

Although his calendar is as open as it has ever been, Scioscia plans to remain busy.

“There are things I’m going to do,” he said. “I’ll look to stay in the game in some capacity. Going to take everything one step at a time.”

Read more about Mike Scioscia in the Philadelphia Inquirer by clicking here.