Philadelphia Phillies…A Wildly Popular Team
The Philadelphia Phillies are the oldest team in American professional sports history to remain in their original home town, with their original name. The team got their start in 1883 as the Philadelphia Quakers. They soon became unofficially called the Philadelphias which was later shortened to the Phillies. They changed their name officially to the Phillies in 1890, although they were for a time known popularly as the Blue Jays.
The Philadelphia Phillies have won two World Series Titles, seven National League Pennants, and nine East Division Titles.
The Philadelphia fans are some of the most notorious in the league. Known for their rowdy behavior, the Phillies fans have been known to break out in fights during games, as well as throw stuff onto the field at opposing team’s players. In an effort to draw more fans to games, the team started the Hot Pants Patrol. A group of women wearing uniforms designed to attract male patrons, they did not last long as some were offended by the sexist nature of the attempt.
The mascot of the Philadelphia Phillies is Philly Phanatic, a green bird looking animal that has a long snout. He is seen at many home games riding around in an ATV and entertaining fans in the stands. The mascot was created at the same time as the Hot Pants Patrol, as an attempt to lure more families into the stadium and fewer of those who would get drunk and cause a commotion.
The home of the Phillies is Citizens Bank Park, which replaced the Veterans Arena. With seating for more than 43,000 the stadium is real grass turf, and cost 458 million dollars to build. It is known as one of the most hitter friendly parks. After the 2005 season the left field wall was moved back five feet due to the large number of home runs each of the two previous seasons. However, batters still hit many home runs each season, helping the stadium to keep its reputation.
In their community, the team is active in helping those less fortunate. They contribute time, money, team memorabilia, and support to various charities and organizations that benefit the community, especially children. They are active in promoting education and literacy in area children.
The Philadelphia Phillies have an amazing history, memorable fans, and a great mascot. On the field and off, their fans are devoted and supportive. Baseball in Pennsylvania is more memorable with the Phillies involved.
