It’s been two years since Alec Bohm committed three errors in the field during a 5-4 win over the New York Mets. Bohm, who is known for his bat more than his glove, has always been a bit challenged defensively, but those issues seem maligned, especially in Philadelphia, when fans will let you know about it.

Bohm was caught mouthing “I ******* hate this place” to his then-teammate Didi Gregorius as a chorus of sarcastic cheers serenaded him after he finally made a routine play in the field.

Sarcastic cheers from the fans after Alec Bohm made a routine play followed by a possible “I fucking hate this place”

Am I reading this wrong? pic.twitter.com/Dpqgg1oTr4

— Hunter Brody (@Brodes81) April 11, 2022

In the heat of the moment, Bohm made an off-hand comment that wasn’t meant for public ears. Cameras caught it, and he later apologized. He acknowledged his emotions were high, and the remark didn’t reflect his true feelings about Philadelphia or its passionate fans.

Alec Bohm on @NBCSPhilly Phillies postgame on saying

“I f***** hate this place” during game

“I said it. Emotions got the best of me. Do I mean it? No. It’s a frustrating night for me. These fans, they just want to win. They’re great. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean that” pic.twitter.com/YxjO2gqTIJ

— John Clark (@JClarkNBCS) April 12, 2022

And that level of honesty resonated with the Philadelphia faithful. A day later, Bohm received a standing ovation, a sign of respect for owning up to his words. Ever since then, he’s become a fan favorite. And while he’ll likely never win a gold glove over at third base, his defense has substantially improved.

And that was on display two years to the date, as Bohm made a sliding grab in foul territory to seal a 5-1 win over the Pittsburgh Pirates on Thursday night. He marked the two-year anniversary with a game-saving — and sealing — play. He also hit a go-ahead home run to put the Phillies ahead for good.

"HE LOVES THIS PLACE!" – Phillies play-by-play announcer Tom McCarthy after an Alec Bohm sliding catch to secure a win… on the two-year anniversary of Bohm saying, "I f*cking hate this place" (https://t.co/q7MiJOSLYU).

Bohm also homered in the win. pic.twitter.com/9WUS7TduD3

— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) April 12, 2024

“He loves this place,” play-by-play voice Tom McCarthy said so cleverly. “What a play by Alec Bohm. And the Phillies take Game 1 by a final score of 5-1.”

That he does. And fans loved McCarthy’s call.

Tom McCarthy is the goat https://t.co/Vrwf0OOaRB

— Tommy Tweets (@Schmessi) April 12, 2024

Tom McCarthy with the “he loves this place” line. Perfect way to end a ballgame

— 𝙎𝙩𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣 (@mainlyphilly) April 12, 2024

I don’t get how anyone hates on TMac seriously. This is an amazing call https://t.co/nGDPjoX7f2

— Phillies SZN (@AssistsPhillies) April 12, 2024

Two years ago, Bohm couldn’t buy a defensive play in Philly. Now, he’s making game-saving grabs, and the fans adore him. Baseball is a funny game.

How can you not be romantic about baseball?