The Philadelphia Phillies pulled off one of the biggest moves of the offseason, bringing back slugger Kyle Schwarber, which may end up costing the team one of their other stars.
The Phillies signed Schwarber to a five-year, $150 million contract, per ESPN’s Jeff Passan. Retaining Schwarber was the Phillies’ top offseason priority, especially after mashing a career-high 56 home runs, but after signing him to such a large contract, retaining All-Star pitcher Ranger Suárez appears far less realistic.
Suárez is projected to sign a long-term contract that will have an average annual value likely over $25 million a year, likely pricing out a return to Philadelphia. Bleacher Report’s Tim Kelly predicts that the eight-year veteran will leave in free agency, signing a contract with the Chicago Cubs.
“Teams may be hesitant to give Ranger Suárez as many years as he and agent Scott Boras would like given that he’s had a back injury in three of the last four seasons and saw his average fastball velocity dip to 91.3 mph in 2025,” Kelly wrote Friday. “However, the former All-Star is still going to make out quite well. Suárez has shown an ability to thrive both as a top-of-the-rotation starter and a reliever.
“The Cubs need another starter to go with Matthew Boyd, Cade Horton and Shota Imanaga, and MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand previously reported that in addition to the Orioles, Chicago and the Houston Astros are ‘the most serious threats to sign him away from the Phillies.’ Based on how this offseason has played out, we’re going to guess that this comes down to the Orioles and Cubs.”
Despite not being named an All-Star for the second-straight season this year, Suárez excelled in his eighth year with the Phillies. The 30-year-old posted a 3.20 ERA with a career-high 151 strikeouts in 26 starts this season. Chicago needs a bona fide star pitcher to lead its starting rotation, and Suárez may be a perfect fit.
This highlights just how deeply entrenched the city’s love of sports actually goes.
Whether it’s merchandise, traveling to games, sports betting, or just buying tickets to watch the games, the figures indicate that when it comes to being passionate about sports, Philly fans aren’t afraid to let their wallets do the talking.
Spending Levels That Outpace Holiday Budgets
The study took a look at how much people tend to spend on Christmas gifts across the nation. It found that, on average, consumers spent around $870 per person. While not a meager sum by any stretch, Philadelphia sports fans generally exceed that figure through team-related spending, regardless of which sport they enjoy most. On average, Philly fans were willing to fork over approximately $944 each year to follow and support their favorite teams. That figure was generally split between gear, tailgates, trips to catch live games, and other related entertainment like online sports betting.
Sports betting alone has become a major driver of sports-related entertainment for local fans. With Pennsylvania boasting one of only seven fully regulated iGaming markets (online casinos included), local fans have plenty of digital platforms to turn to. The market has also branched out considerably over the years, and many fans now regularly use niche options like the best Bitcoin betting sites.
The appeal of these sites comes from their use of cryptocurrencies as a payment method. While Bitcoin is the most popular and widely used option, other tokens like Ethereum and Solana also feature regularly on these specialized sites. By exploiting the benefits of blockchain technology, crypto betting sites offer more private experiences, instant payouts, and a wide range of sports and markets to bet on.
For those who can’t regularly make it to games, online sites like these and other modern options like streaming services and social media help fans engage with their favorite teams in a variety of ways. This has translated into a democratization of sorts that now helps sports fans feel closer to their favorite teams and players. The fact that they can interact with and even directly reply to posts on social media pages has resulted in a surge of new avenues for fans to spend on sports, and Philly fans have embraced all of them.
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How Team Culture Drives Spending Habits
The gap in Philly fans’ spending habits for sports teams vs. holiday shopping shows how much weight sports carry for locals. Many fans attend several games a year across the Eagles, Phillies, Sixers, and Flyers. Special events like playoff runs, rivalry games, or stadium visits boost yearly totals. These costs climb once food, jerseys, travel, and parking enter the mix.
Some fans start spending early in the year. Others build their budgets around key dates like opening day or major matchups. High-demand games often draw higher prices. Families who attend games together may spend hundreds in a single outing. The survey placed Philadelphia among the highest spending markets in the United States, trailing only a few cities with strong football and baseball cultures.
A City Known for High Emotion and High Loyalty
Philadelphia fans often describe themselves as part of an extended sports community. This mindset surrounds each team with a shared sense of identity. When teams succeed, the city lights up. When teams struggle, people stay committed. Despite holiday shopping already surging this year, this emotional link helps explain why local fans spend more than the national holiday shopping average.
Season ticket holders make up a portion of this spending. Some fans keep their seats for decades. They treat renewals as part of yearly planning, much like household bills. Season ticket packages run far above casual single-game purchases, which pushes the average higher.
Travel adds more weight. Fans often take trips to see away games in nearby states. Washington, New Jersey, and New York each host teams that face Philadelphia clubs regularly. These trips often include hotel stays, meal,s and transportation. Some groups turn these events into long weekends, which adds to the total yearly outlay.
The Broader Picture Behind the Numbers
The study that produced these figures compared spending habits across major US cities. Philadelphia ranked near the top not only for total dollars spent but also for consistency across all four major sports. Many cities show strong spending in one sport. Philadelphia maintains strong spending across the board.
Even during the off-season, the spending does not fade. Many fans keep buying shirts, hats, and jerseys during roster moves or draft announcements. Preseason excitement sparks new purchases. Sports radio stations and local news outlets keep stories active, which keeps fans thinking about their teams year-round.
The Philadelphia Phillies made a great trade at the deadline this season, bringing in veteran outfielder Harrison Bader.
After being traded to the Phillies, Bader slashed .305/.361/.463 with five home runs and 16 RBIs. Bader, also an elite defensive outfielder who is a former Gold Glove award winner, enjoyed the best offensive season of his career at the perfect time and is set to cash in this offseason.
Just Baseball’s Ryan Finkelstein projects that the Phillies will re-sign Bader to a two-year contract worth roughly $30 million this offseason.
“This will be Harrison Bader’s third chance to take a bite out of the free agent apple, and his value has never been higher,” Finkelstein wrote Thursday. “Offensively, Bader enjoyed the best season of his career in 2025. Considering Trent Grisham’s defensive regression in 2025, you can make a case that Bader is the best center fielder on the market.
“Still, Bader should be able to get a multi-year deal in free agency for the first time, and if he took a lesser AAV, he might even be able to find a landing spot that would sign him on a three or four-year deal. For our purposes, I went with a two-year pact that pays Bader $15 million per season. A big raise on the $6.25 million he made in 2025. When it comes to the landing spot, the Phillies were a match made in heaven for Bader after a mid-season trade, and the two sides could easily get together on a new deal.”
The Phillies have other top free agents to prioritize this offseason, like Kyle Schwarber, but after trading for Bader at the trade deadline, it would not be surprising to see Philadelphia pursue a reunion in free agency.
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The Philadelphia Phillies have produced some of the most memorable moments in Major League Baseball history.
From championship glory to individual brilliance, the franchise has been home to extraordinary talent that has captivated sports betting fans for generations.
These legendary athletes didn’t just play the game; they revolutionized positions, set records that still stand today, and created a winning culture that resonates throughout the sport.
Whether you’re analyzing player statistics for online sports betting strategies or simply appreciating baseball’s greatest talents, understanding the impact of these iconic Phillies provides valuable context. Modern platforms like Betiton Sport offer comprehensive MLB betting odds and live betting opportunities, where knowledge of historical player performance enhances your experience.
The Legacy of the Philadelphia Phillies in Baseball History
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Since their founding in 1883, the Philadelphia Phillies have built one of baseball’s most enduring franchises. The team has experienced dramatic highs, including their memorable 2008 World Series championship, and challenging rebuilding periods.
Selecting the greatest Phillies requires examining career statistics, postseason performance, individual awards, and lasting influence on the franchise. These ten players represent the pinnacle of achievement in Phillies history.
1) Mike Schmidt // The Powerhouse Third Baseman
Mike Schmidt stands as arguably the third greatest baseman in baseball history. His combination of power hitting and defensive excellence redefined expectations for the position.
Schmidt’s 548 career home runs and ten Gold Glove Awards showcase complete dominance.
Player
Position
Years Active
Key Achievements
Mike Schmidt
Third Baseman
1972-1989
3× MVP, 12× All-Star, 10× Gold Glove, 548 home runs, 1980 World Series MVP
2) Steve Carlton // The Left-Handed Legend
Steve Carlton’s intimidating presence on the mound made him one of baseball’s most dominant pitchers. “Lefty” won four Cy Young Awards with the Phillies, showcasing remarkable consistency. His devastating slider baffled hitters across the National League throughout his career.
Player
Position
Years Active
Key Achievements
Steve Carlton
Pitcher
1972-1986 (Phillies)
4× Cy Young Award, 10× All-Star, 329 career wins, 4,136 strikeouts
3) Chase Utley // The Ultimate Team Player
Chase Utley epitomized winning baseball through his relentless work ethic. The second baseman combined offensive production with defensive excellence, earning six All-Star selections.
His 26 career playoff home runs made him a postseason legend among best baseball players ever.
Player
Position
Years Active
Key Achievements
Chase Utley
Second Baseman
2003-2015 (Phillies)
6× All-Star, 4× Silver Slugger, 26 playoff home runs, 2008 World Series champion
4) Ryan Howard // The Home Run Machine
Ryan Howard’s towering home runs and prodigious power made him one of baseball’s most feared sluggers. The 2006 National League MVP crushed 382 career home runs, including memorable postseason blasts that propelled the Phillies to their 2008 championship.
Player
Position
Years Active
Key Achievements
Ryan Howard
First Baseman
2004-2016
2006 NL MVP, 3× All-Star, 2× Silver Slugger, 382 home runs, 2008 World Series champion
5) Jimmy Rollins // The Spark at Shortstop
Jimmy Rollins brought dynamic energy and all-around excellence to shortstop.
The 2007 National League MVP combined speed, power, and defensive brilliance. His leadership helped transform the Phillies’ culture from one of underachievement to championship winners.
Player
Position
Years Active
Key Achievements
Jimmy Rollins
Shortstop
2000-2014
2007 NL MVP, 3× All-Star, 4× Gold Glove, 2,306 career hits with the Phillies
6) Robin Roberts // The Workhorse of the Phillies’ Golden Era
Robin Roberts anchored the Phillies’ pitching staff during the 1950s with remarkable durability. He pitched 300+ innings in six consecutive seasons while maintaining exceptional control. Roberts won 234 games in a Phillies uniform, more than any other pitcher in franchise history.
Player
Position
Years Active
Key Achievements
Robin Roberts
Pitcher
1948-1961 (Phillies)
7× All-Star, 234 wins with Phillies, 1950 NL pennant, Hall of Fame inductee
7) Richie Ashburn // The Contact King and Fan Favourite
Richie Ashburn’s exceptional bat control and defensive range in center field made him a Phillies icon.
The two-time batting champion accumulated 2,217 hits while rarely striking out, making him the ideal leadoff hitter for championship-contending teams.
Player
Position
Years Active
Key Achievements
Richie Ashburn
Center Fielder
1948-1959 (Phillies)
5× All-Star, 2× batting champion, 2,217 hits with the Phillies, Hall of Fame inductee
8) Cole Hamels // The Calm Ace of the 2008 Champions
Cole Hamels’ ice-cold composure during the 2008 postseason established him as one of baseball’s premier big-game pitchers. His World Series MVP performance showcased pinpoint control and nerves of steel when championships hung in the balance.
Player
Position
Years Active
Key Achievements
Cole Hamels
Pitcher
2006-2015
4× All-Star, 2008 World Series MVP, 2008 NLCS MVP, no-hitter in 2015
9) Bryce Harper // The Modern Face of the Phillies
Since signing his record-breaking contract in 2019, Bryce Harper has rejuvenated Phillies baseball. The two-time MVP winner brought star power and clutch performance, most notably during the 2022 postseason.
Harper ranks among the MLB’s best baseball players of his generation.
10) Jim Bunning // The Perfect Game and the Perfect Competitor
Jim Bunning’s Father’s Day perfect game in 1964 remains one of baseball’s most memorable achievements. The Hall of Fame pitcher brought fierce competitiveness and exceptional control, accumulating 89 wins during his Phillies tenure.
Player
Position
Years Active
Key Achievements
Jim Bunning
Pitcher
1964-1967, 1970-1971
7× All-Star (career), Perfect game (1964), 89 wins with Phillies, Hall of Fame inductee
Honoring Excellence: The Phillies’ Greatest Contributors
The Philadelphia Phillies’ history showcases how individual brilliance combines with team success to create lasting legacies. These ten players represent different eras and playing styles, yet they share common traits: a dedication to excellence and a profound impact on franchise history. From Schmidt’s power to Carlton’s dominance to Harper’s modern star power, each defined their generation.
When considering baseball’s best players throughout MLB history, these Phillies legends consistently appear in broader conversations. Their achievements provide context for evaluating current players and offer benchmarks for excellence that transcend team boundaries.
For those engaged in baseball betting through online betting platforms or simply appreciating the game’s history, understanding the contributions of these players enriches the entire baseball experience.
Major League Baseball implemented the Field of Dreams game in 2021. The game was played in 2022 but not in 2023 due to construction at the stadium. The last two seasons the MLB opted to play games in other locations including the Giants-Cardinals at Rickwood Field and the Reds-Braves at Bristol Motor Speedway. The first game played at the Field of Dreams in Iowa was a thrilling back and forth affair between the Yankees and White Sox, ending in a Tim Anderson walk-off home run.
The Game Returns
After a three year hiatus, a Major League Baseball game will be played in Dyersville, Iowa for the third installment of the Field of Dreams game. This time our beloved Philadelphia Phillies have been selected. The Phillies will take on the Twins on August 13th, 2026.
Phillies-Twins seems like an interesting matchup for a big game like this. In the movie, Kevin Costner and James Earl Jones travel to Minnesota to visit Archibald “Moonlight” Graham. Although he played one game for the New York Giants, “Doc” practiced medicine in Minnesota. It would be a miss by the Twins to not feature a “Moonlight” uniform for the game.
Dyersville, Iowa
Dyersville is a small city in the eastern part of Iowa. Dyersville touches two counties with part of the city in Delaware County. This is probably different than Delco, but I can firmly say this is now a home game for the Phillies.
Field of Dreams was filmed at a farm outside of the city, which is still the town’s claim to fame. Other things to do in town include visiting The National Toy Farm Museum and The Basilica of St. Francis Xavier, one of the few basilicas outside a large metropolitan area.
Special Games
The Phillies have been no stranger to special games in recent years, playing in both the Little League Classic and across the pond in London. Now the Phillies are the headline team for the Field of Dreams game. The Phils have been ok in “special games” the last few seasons going 1-2. They split with the Mets in London but lost the Little League Classic.
The venue is as cool as they come in sports. Getting away from our massive, technology filled stadiums, the game returns closer to its roots. A traditional baseball diamond in the middle of corn fields. It does not get much better than that. You can already feel the excitement coming from the Phillies. John Middleton had this to say, “It’s an honor to have been selected for the return of the prestigious MLB at Field of Dreams game… for our players, this will be an experience they never forget as they step onto the set of one of the most iconic baseball movies ever made.”
This is probably the coolest game in baseball and will be an amazing opportunity for the players. The Phillies may need to re-sign Kyle Schwarber just for the clips of him hitting a moonshot into the Iowa corn fields. But regardless of who is on the team next year the Phillies will be centered around two of the biggest events of the season, Field of Dreams and the MLB All-Star game.
The game will take place on Thursday, Aug. 13, at the field in Dyersville, Iowa. It will technically be a home game for the Twins.
“The Minnesota Twins are thrilled to be playing in the return of MLB at Field of Dreams,” Twins executive chair Joe Pohlad said. “Taking the field in Dyersville, where so much of baseball’s magic comes alive, is special for our club and for our fans in Iowa. August 13, 2026, will be a true celebration of our sport and a memorable day in Twins history.”
After the Iowa game, the teams will get a day off before returning to Target Field on Saturday, Aug. 15, to continue the series. On Tuesday, Aug. 11, the St. Paul Saints will take on the Iowa Cubs at the Field of Dreams.
Netflix will broadcast the Phillies-Twins matchup, MLB said.
A general view of the Field of Dreams prior to the game between the Cincinnati Reds and the Chicago Cubs on August 11, 2022 in Dyersville, Iowa.
Michael Reaves / Getty Images
The titular diamond was made famous by the 1989 film “Field of Dreams,” starring Kevin Costner and Ray Liotta. Costner plays an Iowan farmer who hears a voice telling him to build a baseball diamond in his cornfield. Once completed, the field draws the spectres of late baseball legends. Part of the film actually takes place in Minnesota — Costner’s character and his wife, played by “Weapons” star Amy Madigan, take a trip to Chisholm.
MLB held its first game at the Field of Dreams in 2021, between the Chicago White Sox and New York Yankees. The next year, the Cincinnati Reds took on the Chicago Cubs there. The Phillies-Twins matchup will be the first game there since that 2022 tilt.
The dust has settled on the 2025 MLB season with the Los Angeles Dodgers celebrating back-to-back World Series Championships just like everyone expected. With the 2025 season in the rearview mirror, the attention turns to the offseason. One that might be the most pivotal offseason this franchise has had since they signed Bryce Harper in 2019.
Who’s Back, Who’s Gone
Right off the bat, it’s very easy to say the Phillies’ top priority is Kyle Schwarber, which I completely agree with. I would love to see Schwarber finish his career in a Phillies uniform, especially after the season he put together last year. As great as his play is on the field, he’s an amazing clubhouse guy, which is another reason why I think the Phillies must re-sign him. It’s going to leave a bad taste in a lot of fans’ mouths if the Phillies don’t offer Schwarber.
While Schwarber is priority number one, resigning JT Realmuto would be my number two. I think JT should finish his career with the Phillies, and to me, it makes too much sense. He had a great offensive season, considering how slow he started out of the gate. He is familiar with our pitching staff, and I have never heard any of the pitchers he’s worked with complain about how he handles things. Realmuto is still a top catcher in the league despite his age, and there aren’t many other options to replace JT. The key replacement would be trying to trade for Adley Rutschman from the Baltimore Orioles, but I would much rather the Phillies resign JT and not give up any assets.
Harrison Bader, I would love to have back, but I’m not sure where he would fit. If we could sign him for a year or two, I don’t mind Bader being a nice bridge player until top prospect Justin Crawford gets settled at the major league level. Bader would be a great mentor for Crawford during his first few years at the major league level.
In terms of who’s gone, I wouldn’t be shocked to see Nick Castellanos traded along with Johan Rojas and possibly even Alec Bohm. Castellanos is the one most likely to be moved, especially with how things were handled with him the last few months of the season. Ever since his incident with Rob Thomson, it’s been painfully obvious that the Phillies want to try and move him.
Rojas has become expendable with the emergence of prospect Justin Crawford, who should definitely be on the Phillies’ opening day roster as their centerfielder. Crawford hit .334 in Triple-A last season and played above-average defense in centerfield. Mix in 46 stolen bases, and you now have a better version of Johan Rojas in centerfield.
Alex Bohm could be in a similar situation; however, I don’t know if they will cut ties with him just yet. Top prospect Aidan Miller is still only 21 years old, but he put together a strong season across Double-A and Triple-A last season. Miller broke the Reading Fightin Phils record for most stolen bases in a season with 52. If the Phillies move Bohm, I definitely expect Aidan Miller to be with the big league club this season. Unless Miller puts together an incredible spring, I do expect him to start the season in Triple-A. That means the Phillies would need to try and find a bridge third baseman until Miller is ready. Nolan Arenado is a name to watch if they do end up trading Bohm. However, it wouldn’t surprise me if the Phillies went with Bohm to start the season and then moved him in the middle of the year if Miller is ready and performing.
Pitching
In terms of the pitching, getting Zach Wheeler back healthy is the most important thing for this team. The development of Andrew Painter will be something to monitor as well. Ranger Suarez is the big decision this front office will have to make. His performance has statistically tailed off in the second half of the season, and staying healthy has been a struggle. I’m hesitant to throw money at someone who has struggled to stay healthy. It’s going to be an extremely important decision and one that takes a few years to develop before we decide if it was the right move. It all comes down to money, whether they want to give Suarez the contract he deserves.
If Suarez returns, the Phillies’ rotation will be poised to be a top rotation in baseball again. Christopher Sanchez was your NL Cy Young runner-up after Paul Skenes took home the award last week, which is an incredible accomplishment for Sanchez. A pitcher the Phillies acquired in a trade from the Rays a few years back has turned into a Diamond in the rough. If Wheeler comes back healthy, Aaron Nola bounces back, and Jesus Luzardo builds off of last year’s strong season, then the Phillies could no doubt have the best rotation in baseball.
Winter Meetings
Most action won’t start happening until the week of the MLB Winter Meetings, which will occur from December 7-10. That is when the owners and managers will get to work on building their ballclubs for the 2026 season, as everyone has a fresh start for a World Series run.
Shohei Ohtani likes winning Most Valuable Player awards. He loves winning the World Series even more.
The two-way Japanese star did both for a second season in a row for the Los Angeles Dodgers, earning his fourth career MVP on Thursday night while unanimously earning the National League honor. He’s just the second to win four MVPs after Barry Bonds with seven and the only player to win unanimously more than once.
Considering Ohtani is 31, overtaking Bonds doesn’t seem out of the question. Especially if it leads to more Fall Classic opportunities.
“If I’m playing well as an individual that means I’m helping the team win, so in that sense, hopefully I can end up with a couple more MVPs,” Ohtani said through an interpreter. “But at the end of the day, it’s all about winning games.”
In the American League, Aaron Judge became the New York Yankees’ fourth three-time winner, edging Seattle’s Cal Raleigh with 17 first-place votes to 13 for the switch-hitting catcher. The vote was the closest for an MVP since the Los Angeles Angels’ Mike Trout topped Houston’s Alex Bregman by 17-13 in 2019.
Judge, who won the AL award in 2022 and 2024, joined Joe DiMaggio, Yogi Berra and Mickey Mantle as three-time MVPs with the Yankees. The 33-year-old outfielder led the majors with a .331 batting average and 1.144 OPS while hitting 53 homers.
When asked about his place in MLB and Yankees lore, Judge acknowledged he’s in rare company.
“It’s tough for me to wrap my head around,” Judge said. “It’s mind blowing from my side of things, because I play this game to win, I play this game for my teammates, my family, all the fans in New York.”
Later he added: “You’ve got to pinch yourself every single day. It’s truly an incredible honor.”
Ohtani won a MVP for the third straight year, his second in the NL with the Dodgers after two in the AL with the Angels. He became the first to win in each league twice after getting the AL honor in 2021 and 2023. Ohtani signed with the crosstown Dodgers the following offseason and won NL MVP in 2024 during his first season in Chavez Ravine. He’s also won the World Series in both his seasons with the Dodgers.
Philadelphia Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber finished second in the NL with 23 second-place votes and New York Mets outfielder Juan Soto was third with four.
Ohtani hit .282 and led the NL with a 1.014 OPS. He also had 55 homers, 102 RBIs and 20 stolen bases.
The right-hander returned to pitching in June after missing 1 1/2 seasons on the mound because of an elbow injury. He struck out 62 batters over 47 innings, slowly increasing his workload while preparing for the postseason.
Ohtani continued to shine in October with arguably the greatest single game in MLB history. He hit three homers while striking out 10 over six dominant innings on Oct. 17, leading the Dodgers over Milwaukee to finish an NL Championship Series sweep.
Schwarber, who earned a $50,000 bonus for finishing second, hit an NL-best 56 homers and led the big leagues with 132 RBIs for Philadelphia.
Soto overcame a slow start to the season to have his typically stellar offensive output. The four-time All-Star — who signed a $765 million, 15-year deal last December — had 43 homers, 105 RBIs and an NL-best 38 stolen bases. He received a $150,000 bonus for finishing third in the MVP voting.
Judge is the first AL player to win back-to-back MVPs since Detroit’s Miguel Cabrera it in 2012 and 2013.
Raleigh, nicknamed “Big Dumper,” led the big leagues with 60 homers, the most for a player primarily a catcher. He started 119 games behind the plate and another 38 at designated hitter.
The 28-year-old also had a career-high 125 RBIs, leading the Mariners to one of their best seasons in franchise history. Judge said he got to know Raleigh a little during the All-Star break and the catcher asked for some leadership tips.
“Cal’s a special player,” Judge said. “I could sit here and talk all night about the player he is, but really the kind of leader and person he is really stuck out to me at the All-Star Game.”
Cleveland’s José Ramírez finished third in the AL.
Arizona’s Geraldo Perdomo was fourth in the NL voting, earning him $2.5 million annual salary increases in 2028 and 2029 along with the price of Arizona’s 2030 club option.
On June 22, 2024, Sanchez and the Phillies agreed to a four–year, $22.5 million contract extension. This extension took place in the middle of Sanchez’s development. At the time it seemed like a great deal (it was), and today it is an even better deal. This is the best team friendly contract in the league. But how did we get here?
The Beginning
Cristopher Sanchez did not begin his career in Philadelphia. In fact, he was signed by the Tampa Bay Rays as an international free agent in 2013. Sanchez spent time in the Rays organization from 2013 – 2019 but never cracked the major leagues. During the 2019 off-season Sanchez was traded to the Phillies for Curtis Mead. Sanchez did not play for the Phillies in 2020 due to the COVID cancellation of the minor league season.
Quick Note: This trade turned into a huge win for the Phillies. Mead was a solid minor league player for the Rays but was never able to make an impact in the bigs. He played parts of the 2024 and 2025 season with the Rays. He was traded in July to the White Sox, where he was optioned to Triple-A.
Making the Jump
Sanchez was called up to the club multiple times in 2020 but never made an appearance for the Phillies. This changed when Sanchez was called up to the majors on June 6, 2021. That day, Sanchez made his debut for the Phillies, coming in for the final four outs, in a 12-6 win over the Nationals. Sanchez got his first ever major league strikeouts. He first strike out came against current Phillies shortstop, Trea Turner; and his second came against Juan Soto, on what is now a patented Sanchez change up. Pretty awesome to have your first strikeouts come against those players.
In 2021 Sanchez made 7 total appearances for the club, starting one game. He finished the year with a 4.97 ERA/1.816 WHIP, with 13 ks and 7 walks over 12.2 innings pitched. These numbers reflect more of what the expectation was for Sanchez. He was supposed to be a nice role player to have on the staff. Instead, he has been able to do so much more.
The Development
In 2022 Sanchez was still a work in progress. He spent most of his time in Leigh Valley with the Iron Pigs but made multiple appearances for the Phillies. This shows that even in 2022 Sanchez was trending to be a big league pitcher, he just didn’t have all the tools yet. He struggled during his time with the Phillies in 2022, mainly featured in a bullpen role, pitching in 15 games with 3 being starts. He finished the season with a 5.63 ERA/1.375 WHIP, with 35 ks and 17 walks over 40 innings pitched.
2023
This is where the rise truly began for Sanchez. After being tossed between the minors and majors for parts of two seasons, Sanchez was finally able to make his mark. The lanky lefty was called up to the Phillies on June 17th to bring stability to the 5th starter spot. In his first game he threw 4 scoreless innings and never saw the minors again.
Sanchez was able to bring a calmness to the already impressive Phillies rotation by posting a 3.44 ERA/1.047 WHIP, with 96 ks and 16 walks over 99.1 innings pitched. That season Sanchez was an unexpected gift. Minor league call-ups haven’t worked well for the Phillies. I have a hard time remembering the last minor leaguer to make a consistent winning impact on the Phillies.
In 2022 he had 35 strikeouts and 17 walks pitching 40 innings. The following season pitching 90.1 innings he had 96 strikeouts and only 16 walks. That is the pitcher we are watching today. He always had it in him, whether some of us knew it then (unfortunately have to give credit to my brother here) or not there were flashes. Sanchez pitched 50 more innings, and all of his numbers improved, impressive stuff.
2024
Clearly the Phillies liked what they saw from Sanchez in 2023 because the following season he earned a 4 year, 22.5 million dollar contract. At the time this seemed like a decent deal. Sanchez had not fully proved himself yet but showed he deserved a spot in the rotation. He was a reliable depth piece the Phillies were able to extend for cheap. Then the season unfolded and the contract kept looking better and better for the Phillies.
Cristopher threw his first complete game shut out on June 28th, 2024, just six days after his extension. He also went on to win pitcher of the month in June with a 3-0 record, 1.64 era, and 23 ks. With his success in 2023, Sanchez made himself invaluable to the Phillies. He locked up his place in the rotation by posting a 3.32 ERA/1.244 WHIP, with 153ks and 44 walks over 181.2 innings pitched.
Although there were flashes in 2023, the 2024 season is when we saw the elite sinker change-up combo begin to take shape. We also started to see Sanchez was going to be more than a rotation depth piece. He was beginning to make his name as a big league player, even though guys like Zack Wheeler and Aaron Nola were aces in the Phillies rotation. Even with his growth, what more could we expect from Sanchez. Did he peak in 2024? Will he be able to take his game to another level?
2025
The answer was yes. He took his game to a new stratosphere. Sanchez was unbelievable for the Phillies last season. Wheeler was the early season Cy Young favorite, but as the season progressed Sanchez was pitching just as well if not better than Wheeler. It turns out we had two aces on the staff.
The entire 2025 season I was enamored with Sanchez. Every time he took the mound, you were thinking, wow he is just so good. It makes it more special that Sanchez worked his way up through the minors. His development may not be a surprise to teammates, but it certainly was to the fans. The guy was supposed to help stabilize the back end of our rotation and instead became one of if not the best lefty pitcher in baseball. One reason for this is his devastating change-up. The Sanchez change-up is the best in baseball and maybe the best pitch any pitcher has in the league. He finished the year with a 2.50 ERA/1.064 WHIP, with 212 ks and 44 walks over 202 innings pitched, leading to a second place finish in the NL Cy Young.
Grateful for Him
Back in 2023, Sanchez showed flashes of talent and was able to cement himself in the majors but wasn’t able to make a consistent impact. He took huge strides in 2024, and his pitching went to a whole new level in 2025. The best part about it, is that it doesn’t feel like a flash in the pan. He is a legit talent that hitters fear. Wheeler went down and Sanchez did not blink. He was phenomenal in both of his playoff starts, putting the Phillies in position to win each of his games.
The development of Cristopher Sanchez is one of the biggest jumps I have ever seen a pitcher make. It is a great story to show you don’t need to be a prized free agent or mega prospect to make a difference. Sanchez put his head down and went to work. As I am, all of Philadelphia should be grateful for Sanchez. Because of him the Phillies don’t have to worry about their rotation as much and can focus on acquiring position players. Getting to see him develop from a fringe piece to a consistent starter, and now watching him master his craft, Sanchez’s development story is one for the ages.
With the off-season almost in full effect, the Phillies will look to bolster their roster during the winter meetings. The free agent class isn’t anything special, but there are a few big names available.
It will be interesting to see what the Phillies do since most of their roster is under contract. Rightfully so, Alec Bohm and Nick Castellanos are the two names constantly out in trade talks. Whether they trade them for a direct replacement or overall roster improvement is set to be seen. I don’t see them being able to move, say, Castellanos for a quality starting right fielder. It is more likely they would be able to move him for a bench guy or low-level reliever.
After looking through each position there aren’t a ton of free agents options that stick out to me. Nevertheless, let’s take a look at the potential free agents the Phillies could benefit from.
CATCHER
The obvious re-sign here is JT Realmuto. Not only is he the best catcher on the market, he is still a top player at his position in baseball. I mean just look at some of the other names out there Salvador Perez, Victor Caratini, Danny Janson, James McCann, Austin Barnes, Gary Sanches, shall I go on? There really isn’t a question on what to do here.
FIRST BASE
First base is a little more interesting because of Pete Alonso. The Mets first baseman may be the best player available on the market. Alonso has a player option with the Mets but can elect to become a free agent like he did after last season. Alonso, who hit .272 with 38 homeruns and 126 RBIS last season would provide a huge boost to the lineup. He could split time at first base with Bryce, allowing Harper to get the rest he needs at this point in his career. The die hard in me says no thank you to Alonso. He may be a productive addition, but I would struggle seeing that man in a Phillies uniform.
Ryan O’Hearn and Josh Naylor were the two other names that stuck out to me, but I don’t see the Phillies having interest in those guys, unless O’Hearn was brought on as a bench bat.
SHORTSTOP
The Phillies do not need a shortstop; however, we do need a third baseman. Bo Bichette would be an unreal replacement for Bohm. He will probably receive a massive contract, so I doubt the Phillies can make the money work, but adding Bichette to this lineup would be a difference maker.
Trevor Story was the other option at shortstop, but I see him returning to Boston. He has a club option (that the Red Sox can reject), however Story was a productive player for the Red Sox this season and he will stay put in Boston.
Third Base
The hot corner is up for grabs this year in Philadelphia. Free agent wise Alex Bregman is the most obvious move the Phillies make. He is an experienced player who is an above average fielder and hitter. His offense will provide more consistency than Bohm, and he is more mature which should help the Phillies in the playoffs. Maybe the Bregman move is too obvious and Dombrowski goes another route, but this move makes sense for the Phillies.
Eugenio Suarez is another intriguing third baseman, however his age (34) may be an issue for Philadelphia. The Phillies did express interest at the deadline, so he may be on their radar but I don’t see Suarez as a great FA signing for the club.
Max Muncy does have a club option, which I expect to be picked up. Muncy would be awesome to have on this roster even at 35. He can play all over the infield and is a proven bat. Unlikely he isn’t a Dodger, but an interesting name that may be available to the Phillies.
CENTER FIELDER
Outfield is another spot the ballclub will look to upgrade this off season. The outfield in Philadelphia is wide open. The two best options for center are Cody Bellinger and Harrison Bader. Bellinger will cost a pretty penny and seems like a guy who would stay in NY, but he would be an ideal fit for the Phillies. He can play all 3 outfield positions and first base. With our current lineup, I wish he batted right-handed, but Bellinger would be a difference maker for this team offensively and defensively. Bader would also be a great signing. He does have a player option, which most likely gets declined making Bader a FA. He provided outstanding defense and vibes to the Phillies last season. Bader would be welcomed back to Philadelphia.
RIGHT FIELDER
There is only one right fielder I would be interested in and he would be my ideal FA signing – Kyle Tucker. Still only 29 years old, Tucker will thrive in this Phillies lineup. He can fill in at the four spot behind Bryce, giving him the protection he needs. Although his defense has declined the last few seasons Tucker is still a capable defender and an upgrade over Castellanos. This signing would make the Phillies off-season and only add to their World Series potential.
DESIGNATED HITTER
Easy one here. Sign Schwarber, unless you want Joc Pederson (lol) or Marcell Ozuna (LOL). Pay him what he wants.
STARTING PITCHERS
One thing the Phillies are flush in is starting pitching. The Phillies own Ranger Suarez is a free agent, but even if they don’t re-sign him the starting pitching still looks good. There are some big names on this list, but if the Phillies were to add a starter in FA (outside of bringing back Ranger) I could see a name like Zac Gallen or Shane Bieber being connected to the Phillies. With Painter still a little bit of an unknown and the injury to Wheeler, either would be a potential sneaky add to the Phillies, that gives them the pitching depth needed for the playoffs.
RELIEF PITCHERS
The bullpen could also use some work. Alvarado has a club option so it is yet to be seen if he will be back. With the need for a left-handed arm, it is likely Alvarado stays with the club. Regardless they need to fill the spots of Romano, Ross, and Robertson. There are a few relievers on the market that should interest Dombrowski. First, Devin Williams. He had a somewhat of a down year with the Yankees but still has electric stuff. Adding him to the bullpen with Duran (and Caleb Cotham) could be deadly. Tyler Rodgers is another name that interests me. Although a little older the submarine pitcher is still highly effective. He could be a useful player but may add too many right-handed arms. The last name that stood out was all-star closer Robert Suarez. Coming off a monster season with the Padres, Suarez can opt out of his contract. Maybe he decides to chase a payday. Unlikely but his arm would be a welcomed addition to the bullpen.
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From roaring crowds to iconic eats, the Philadelphia sports scene offers some of the most passionate, intense, and unforgettable game days in the country.
Whether it’s a chilly Sunday at Lincoln Financial Field or a summer evening at Citizens Bank Park, every Philly venue delivers something unique for fans.
Philadelphia is a city that breathes sports. The energy surrounding every major game, whether football, baseball, hockey, basketball, or soccer, is woven into the city’s identity. Visitors often find that the atmosphere here goes beyond simple fandom.
It is about pride, tradition, and being part of a community that celebrates every victory and feels every loss together.
Each venue in the city has its own character and rituals that make attending a game a one-of-a-kind experience. For those exploring Philly’s entertainment culture beyond the arenas, local hotspots like Millioner add another layer to the city’s vibrant leisure scene.
Lincoln Financial Field and the Eagles’ Fierce Tradition
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Few experiences compare to an Eagles home game at Lincoln Financial Field. From the moment you step near the South Philadelphia Sports Complex, the air buzzes with anticipation. Tailgating begins early, often hours before kickoff, as fans fire up grills, set up tents, and share food and stories with complete strangers who feel like old friends.
Inside, the sound of “Fly, Eagles Fly” echoes from every corner of the stadium. The Linc’s design keeps the noise close to the field, creating an electric environment that can overwhelm even seasoned visiting teams. For many fans, the best part of the experience is the sense of unity. Win or lose, everyone in green and white shares the same emotional roller coaster.
Those looking for food should not miss the local flavor. From Tony Luke’s cheesesteaks to Chickie’s and Pete’s crab fries, the concessions at the Linc celebrate Philadelphia’s comfort food traditions. For a quick bite before the game, head to Xfinity Live across the street, where the pregame party spills over with live music and team chants.
Citizens Bank Park and the Phillies’ Family Atmosphere
While the Eagles’ home turf thrives on intensity, Citizens Bank Park offers a more laid-back but equally passionate vibe. Phillies fans bring a deep sense of tradition, often attending games as families who have followed the team for generations. The ballpark’s design makes every seat feel close to the action, and its wide concourses and open views of the field enhance the fan experience.
The food selection here is widely regarded as one of the best in Major League Baseball. Beyond the expected hot dogs and pretzels, fans can find gourmet options like Bull’s BBQ, Manco & Manco pizza, and classic roast pork sandwiches from Tony Luke’s. The Yard, located in right field, is a family-friendly zone complete with a wiffle ball field and photo spots for kids.
On summer evenings, the energy is unbeatable. The skyline glows in the distance, the crowd rises for the seventh-inning stretch, and the stadium fills with the rhythm of rally towels and cheers. For locals and visitors alike, it is the quintessential Philly summer night.
Subaru Park and the Rise of Philadelphia Union
Soccer has been steadily growing in popularity in Philadelphia, and nowhere is that more evident than at Subaru Park in Chester. The Philadelphia Union’s home sits along the Delaware River, offering a scenic backdrop for an increasingly devoted fan base. What makes the Union’s matches stand out is the community atmosphere. The Sons of Ben, the club’s official supporters’ group, leads chants, songs, and coordinated displays that make even first-time visitors feel part of the action.
The match-day experience starts well before kickoff, with tailgates lining the parking lots and fans waving blue and gold flags. Inside, the energy is constant. Soccer may not yet rival football or baseball in overall attendance, but the intensity of the Union faithful makes every goal, save, or penalty kick feel monumental.
Subaru Park also emphasizes accessibility and inclusivity, making it easy for new fans to get involved. With affordable tickets, easy transit options, and a welcoming culture, it represents the next evolution of Philadelphia’s sports identity.
Phillies President of Baseball Operations David Dombrowski on his phone during batting practice before the Phillies play the San Diego Padres in game two of the National League Championship Series at Petco Park in San Diego on Wednesday, October 19, 2022.
With the 2025 Phillies season over we look toward next year. The World Series was played in the NLDS and the Phillies are still on the cusp of a World Series after a few years of playoff disappointment. Let’s take a look at who should stay or go for the Phillies next season.
Stay
JT Realmuto
He is the best catcher on the market. He is vital to our pitching staff. Look at the growth of Wheeler, Suarez, and Sanchez. Caleb Cotham is phenomenal but JT deserves a lot of credit too.
For as much as people complained about his regular season hitting, JT actually showed up in the playoffs, hitting .353 with 6 hits including a home run. So spare me age or whatever reason you come up with to not re-sign him. The guy is still a really good ball player. The bigger issue is how much we rely on JT to knock in runs. If the offense can add more production you don’t have to rely on JT to carry the load.
Kyle Schwarber
He has got to stay. The lineup would be worse off without him. You can say what you want about his performance in the playoffs, but game 3 shows how important he is to the team. The second he homered everything got going. I am not sure fans realize how much this team would have struggled without his 56 home runs and 132 rbis. You cannot replace that. Pay him whatever he would like.
Ranger Suarez
The loss of Ranger Suarez feels inevitable. Andrew Painter should be added to the rotation, but there is still a spot for Ranger. Wheeler is not going to be healthy to start the season and who knows how his recovery will go. A rotation of Sanchez, Luzardo, Suarez, Nola, and Painter is still nasty. Ranger will come at a high cost, but with no salary cap I don’t see any reason for him to leave other than Middleton avoiding a tax.
Let’s not forget Ranger has been deadly in the playoffs and Toppers failure to use him in game 1 is a huge reason they lost the series. Ranger needs to be a Phillie next season, even though the feeling is he won’t be.
Justin Crawford
Crawford should be on this roster. He will add youth and speed to this team. I think he should have been called up in the second half of last season, but the Phillies decided against it. Since he didn’t get an opportunity last season, it will be interesting to see how productive Crawford will be for the Phillies. The teams biggest mix up this offseason will likely be in the outfield. I would love to see Crawford start in left or center for the Phillies.
Jose Alvarado
Alvarado is a really interesting case for the Phillies. He has been one of our better relievers the past couple seasons, but a PED suspension kept him out for most of the season and the playoffs. Alvarado has a $9 million dollar player option, which makes sense for the Phillies to pick up. It is not anything too expensive and they need a left handed arm. I think he stays but feel indifferent on his status.
Go
Alec Bohm
The team needs to move on from Bohm. He just isn’t it. Doesn’t hit for average, doesn’t hit for power, isn’t a great fielder but also isn’t a bad one, and offers nothing on the basepaths.
For being 6’5” he severely lacks in power which hurts the lineup (and top 3 hitters) as a whole. You expect your 3rd baseman to have some power, but the Phillies have not gotten that. They do not have a true 4 hole hitter and I would like to see them fill that role at 3rd base or right field. Regardless, it is time to move on from Bohm.
Nick Castellanos
Castellanos has been one of the more interesting players for the Phillies the last few seasons. He is one of the most frustrating players on the team to watch. Free swinger, who gets fooled by the same sequence over and over. But at the same time, he has had many big moments at the plate and even on defense during the playoffs. Overall his hitting has been fine, but his defense is not nearly good enough. In fact, it is awful. His first step is the slowest I have seen, he leaves so many outs on the field that look like he made the correct play but in reality, he physically can’t reach the ball. A new RF is needed. Just move him, I do not care about the return.
Maybe Stay Maybe Go
Bryson Stott
Stott is an interesting case. He could fit in the same category as Bohm. A player from the “Day Care” not developing as much as we hoped. However, I feel this team has bigger holes to fill than Stott. His fielding is second to none and he makes them an infinitely better defensive team. His at bats leave a lot to be desired but having Sott hit 8th or 9th with his defense helps this team a lot. There is not a logical reason to move on from him. He should stay.
Harrison Bader
Most of the fans would like to see Bader back in CF. The fit is there, but the contract will be the question. He added “something” to this team that was previously missing. Bader was a mold of hitter that fit what the team needed and played great defense; he was missed during the NLDS. Bader coming back depends on his cost, which may end up being too high for Middletown and Dombrowski, but he would make an ideal starting CF.
Brandon Marsh and Max Kepler
I decided to pair Kepler and Marsh together. I do not see both of these players coming back together. Throughout the season I assumed Kepler would be one and done, but he came on strong at the end of the year and had a good playoffs. Depending on the outfield options I could see them bringing back Kepler on a cheap deal.
I also believe the will hold onto Brandon Marsh. There seems to be a belief in the lockeroom that he can get his hitting figured out. The issue is he cannot hit lefties. So, if Marsh is on the roster next season, he may need to be paired with a right-handed bat. Marsh is an interesting piece because he is still young and has shown potential, but I feel we have seen the player that he is. The Phillies shouldn’t look to move him but if a trade package makes sense, we could see Brandon Marsh on the move.
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If you’ve ever set foot in Philly on game day, you know it’s not just about sports; it’s about survival of the loudest.
The city breathes football, baseball, basketball, and hockey like other places breathe air.
Lincoln Financial Field isn’t a stadium, it’s a thunder factory when the Eagles charge in. The Wells Fargo Center? Feels like it’s going to burst when the Sixers are cooking. And Citizens Bank Park on a summer night, when the Phillies claw their way back in the ninth – man, that’s pure adrenaline.
And 2025? Big-ticket events like the Army–Navy Game, Penn Relays, and the Marathon will keep the spotlight on the city, while soccer and women’s hoops are sneaking into the mainstream. Even the way people connect is shifting. Some head to their go-to bar in South Philly, others fire up fan apps and betting slips, and plenty check out platforms like SlotsSpot, a place packed with verified online casinos where you can chase some action without worrying about shady sites. Just like Philly fans demand authenticity from their teams, they expect the same from the places they play – online or off.
Iconic Teams Driving Philadelphia Sports Culture
Philly’s sports scene is like sitting at a packed poker table where every card means something big.
Credit: Pixabay – Credit: Pixabay
The Eagles are the ace, no doubt. Sundays at the Linc aren’t games, they’re all-in moments with tailgates that smell like grilled sausage and cheap beer.
The chants? They hit harder than a jackpot bell, with “E-A-G-L-E-S!” shaking the stadium like dice on a hot streak.
Team
Sport
Cultural Role in Philly Sports Culture
2025 Outlook
Eagles
NFL (Football)
The ace in Philly’s deck, built on tailgates, grit, and the iconic “E-A-G-L-E-S!” chant.
Playoff heat expected, atmosphere at the Linc unmatched.
Phillies
MLB (Baseball)
Summer heartbeat, family nights, Citizens Bank Park packed with generational pride.
Riding strong momentum, younger fan base keeps growing.
76ers
NBA (Basketball)
Symbol of resilience, “Trust the Process” turned into a cult-like following.
High playoff hopes, new energy fueling the fan scene.
Flyers
NHL (Hockey)
Pure grit, Broad Street Bullies legacy, toughness written into the DNA.
The quiet riser, bringing global vibes into Philly’s fan mix.
Soccer boom positions Union as a bigger player in 2025.
Lacrosse
PLL & NLL
Fast, rough, fits Philly’s appetite for hard-hitting action.
Growing crowds, youth leagues feeding the pipeline.
Philly doesn’t just cheer for its teams, it bets its soul on them every season. The Eagles bring the city together like a royal flush, the Phillies keep summers alive, the Sixers fire up the young blood, and the Flyers remind everyone this town’s still got teeth.
Then you’ve got the Union and lacrosse sliding into the mix, proving Philly fans aren’t afraid to take a chance on something new if it’s got heart. No matter the season, no matter the sport, Philly’s all-in – and that’s what keeps the city’s sports culture unbeatable.
Premier Sporting Events in Philadelphia 2025
Credit: Pixabay
Philly doesn’t just live off the big teams. The city’s sports culture runs on a calendar that feels like a nonstop tournament.
Every few weeks, there’s another showdown that pulls the crowd.
Event
Sport/Focus
Why It Matters in Philly
What’s Cooking in 2025
Army–Navy Game
College Football
A rivalry so intense it feels like war on turf, pumping pride into the city.
Packed Linc, national spotlight, electric atmosphere.
Penn Relays
Track & Field
Oldest and biggest track meet in the U.S., dripping with history.
Still the spring king, international runners spice it up.
Philadelphia Marathon
Running
Philly streets turn into a giant block party of sweat and cheers.
Record runners expected, tourism jackpot for the city.
Broad Street Run
10-Mile Race
Philly’s version of an all-in sprint, open to anyone ready to hustle.
More young blood signing up, bigger media buzz.
Head of the Schuylkill Regatta
Rowing
Tradition on water, showing off Philly’s river pride.
Global crews expected, turning the river into a stage.
NCAA & Pro Tournaments
Basketball, Wrestling, Golf
The city flexes as a host that can handle anything.
More big tournaments rolling in, filling hotels and bars.
Exhibitions (Savannah Bananas, etc.)
Baseball Entertainment
Pure fun, goofy but addictive – like side bets at a casino.
Guaranteed sell-outs, families piling in for the show.
That’s the thing about Philly. These events aren’t just games; they’re rituals. You’ll see locals lining Broad Street in the cold, rowdy students losing their voices at the Relays, and tourists falling in love with the chaos while crushing a cheesesteak. The city treats every event like a parlay bet – stacked, risky, but unforgettable when it hits.
Sports Bars, Food, and Local Flavor
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In Philly, the game starts long before the first whistle. The real warm-up happens at the bars and food joints where the city’s heartbeat is loudest. You walk into Chickie’s & Pete’s on an Eagles Sunday and it’s like stepping into a sportsbook where everyone’s already all-in. Buckets of wings, crab fries flying off trays, pitchers of beer sweating on the tables – and fans screaming at a pre-game highlight like they’ve got money on it. Over in South Philly, cheesesteaks aren’t just food, they’re pregame fuel. Pat’s or Geno’s? That’s the eternal coin flip, and you’d better pick a side like you’re betting red or black.
In 2025, this food-and-fan ritual has only leveled up. Craft breweries are popping up, stadium menus feel like food festivals, and even the corner bars are upping their game. But the vibe stays the same. It’s loud, it’s greasy, and it’s real. A beer in one hand, a cheesesteak in the other, and the whole place roaring like a slot machine hitting three 7s – that’s Philly sports culture in its purest flavor.
Youth Sports and Grassroots Development
Ask anyone who grew up here and they’ll tell you – Philly sports culture doesn’t start in the big arenas, it starts on cracked asphalt courts and muddy fields where kids learn to ball out before they can even spell “Eagles.” Little league football feels like a smaller version of the Linc, with parents hollering like it’s the NFC Championship. Basketball runs through neighborhood courts where kids mimic Embiid’s post moves until the lights cut out. And the colleges – Temple, Penn, Villanova – they’re like the training grounds where tomorrow’s legends cut their teeth.
Credit: Pixabay
What makes it special is that it’s not just about producing athletes. It’s about shaping loyalty, grit, and that “never back down” Philly spirit. These grassroots leagues are like free spins that keep paying out, generation after generation, feeding the big-time culture with fresh energy. In 2025, with more girls’ teams, better facilities, and even digital tools helping kids get noticed, the scene’s only getting stronger. It’s not polished, it’s not fancy, but it’s real Philly – and that’s exactly why the city’s sports culture keeps hitting like a jackpot year after year.
Conclusion
Philly’s sports culture in 2025? Feels like the city threw down on the ultimate parlay and every leg is live. The Eagles, Phillies, Sixers, Flyers – the classics, the steady hands, the ones you keep riding even after a few cold streaks because you know the heater’s coming. These teams don’t walk away from the table, and neither do their fans.
Then you toss in the events that keep the city buzzing: the Army–Navy showdown with the Linc packed to the rafters, the Penn Relays with kids flying down the track like they’ve got money on the line, the Marathon turning streets into one long sweat-drenched block party. And don’t forget the food – cheesesteaks dripping on your shirt, crab fries by the bucket, and corner bars where you walk in a stranger and cash out as family.
Thomson will be entering the final year of his contract, making 2026 a true make-or-break season for both Thomson and the Phillies.
Philadelphia Heartbreak
It’s been five days since the Phillies lost Game 4 of the NLDS in the most heartbreaking fashion you could imagine. The first series in MLB history to end on an error. Of course, it would happen to the Phillies.
It took me all day Friday to go through the stages of grief following the loss. I was not angry at Kerkering for a miscue throw to—the. In fact, I completely understand the mental state when you first bobble a ball. Even if you knew where you were supposed to go with the ball, the second you bobble it, panic sets in, and that’s exactly what happened. I know Kerkering can be a good reliever, and I hope he bounces back next year with us.
Different Year, Same Result
While my sympathy was with Kerkering, my anger was directed towards Rob Thomson, the entire lineup aside from JT Realmuto, Alec Bohm, and Nick Castellanos. The big three of Turner, Schwarber, and Harper went 1-14 in the Game 4 elimination game. The third season in a row, the big guns disappeared when it mattered most. That part of it is on the players, and while Rob Thomson makes the lineup, he can’t control what pitches these guys are swinging at.
Rob Thomson controls the bullpen and who comes in certain situations. This is part of his job; Rob Thomson has been horrible at it in the postseason. In 2023, he brought Craig Kimbrel in against the Arizona Diamondbacks, which eventually led to the Phillies blowing the lead and the series. Since that series, Rob Thomson has poorly managed the bullpen when it matters the most. It’s led to the Phillies blowing leads in multiple playoff games over the last few years, including in this year’s series. Going to Kerkering with runners on was a terrible idea from the start. 8/13 inherited runners have scored on Kerkering since August. Having him in the game in that moment was a terrible decision by Rob Thomson. Even leading up to that, one might question why we walked Ohtani in the 7th inning to load the bases? Duran would walk in a run, tying the game 1-1 after Mookie Betts worked a walk. Thomson made a few questionable decisions, but it’s not solely on him to blame.
What Went Wrong?
Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
I touched on the lack of production from Turner, Schwarber, and Harper before, but it’s important to know how flat-out bad these three were in this series. Aside from the Game 3 outburst, these three underperformed when the lights were the brightest. While I still want the Phillies to re-sign Kyle Schwarber, you have to wonder if he decreased his price tag following his poor October showing. Harper and Turner need to figure out a way to make their $300 million price tags worth it come October. Harper had an incredible postseason in 2023 and 2024, but his last two postseason showings have been lackluster. You aren’t gonna win many baseball games when the highest-paid players don’t show up.
Harrison Bader was injured with a groin injury, which also hurt the Phillies in terms of their lineup. Bader was such a spark for this team down the stretch, and his absence should not go unnoticed. I’m hoping the Phillies could bring him back, but the question is for how much and where he would play. If Bader did play his last game in a Phillies uniform, he was an incredible addition to this team, and it’s a shame he got injured when he did.
I tip my cap to Alec Bohm and JT Realmuto, who had really strong showings at the plate in the division series. I would love to have JT back behind the plate next year, as he is set to hit free agency. If JT walks, I expect the Phillies to possibly pursue a trade with the Baltimore Orioles for catcher Adley Rutschman. Rutschman would be a nice replacement for the Phillies if Realmuto isn’t on the team next year. With that being said, I do hope JT works out a deal and hopefully ends his career as a Phillie.
Pitching Excellence
The starting pitching once again showed up when it mattered most, despite not having Zack Wheeler. Christopher Sanchez pitched two great games and further solidified himself as a true ace during this series. Jesus Luzardo, Aaron Nola, and Ranger Suarez all pitched great throughout the series as well. The starting pitching was dominant all year, and they performed well above expectations in this series.
Ranger Suarez is the only starting arm that is a free agent this upcoming winter. The big question is, do you pay Ranger Suarez knowing you have a replacement in Andrew Painter coming up? Suarez has been one of the best lefties in the game over the last two years, so although it would hurt to lose him, the Phillies might not be able to afford to keep him. It’s going to be very interesting to see where Suarez lands this upcoming offseason.
Season Conclusion
That’s officially a wrap on the Phillies’ 2025 season, as well as my first season covering the team. It was a pleasure to bring you weekly storylines and my thoughts on this ball club throughout the year. The season ended like no one could have expected, with a game-losing error. One of the main things I love about baseball is that you can shake off whatever happened in the game before and get right back at it within a day or two. But in this scenario, having to sit with this feeling all offseason is certainly going to sting.
While some fans (including myself) are still angry with this team and the result, I can already feel the excitement and optimism of opening day 2026 when the Texas Rangers come to town. Only 163 days until The Bank is packed for Opening Day on March 26, 2026!
One Last Weekly Prediction: The Seattle Mariners are going to be your 2025 World Series Champions.
It was another heartbreaking night for the Philadelphia Phillies on Thursday, after a disastrous error in the 11th inning of Game 4 saw them crash out of the MLB postseason at the hands of the Los Angeles Dodgers.
The Dodgers won 2-1 on the night to clinch a NL Division Series win and advance to the NL Championship Series (NLCS), but the game will likely be remembered more for how the Phillies lost it, than how the Dodgers won.
Extra innings were needed to separate the two teams at Dodger Stadium after a tense contest saw Phillies right fielder Nick Castellanos driving in Max Kepler in the top of the seventh and Justin Dean scoring for LA off a walk with the bases loaded in the bottom of the inning.
The stage was then set for a moment the Phillies and pitcher Orion Kerkering would love to forget as quickly as possible.
With the bases loaded and two outs in the 11th, Dodgers outfielder Andy Pages struck a routine ground ball back towards Kerkering.
On any normal given day, the reliever would have thrown to first base for an easy out, but the occasion seemed to get to the 24-year-old.
Instead, he fumbled the ball, before trying to throw back to home plate, where his attempt totally missed Phillies catcher JT Realmuto’s outstretched mitt. The baffling error allowed Kim Hye-seong to score the winning run and send the home fans into a frenzy.
During the incident, Realmuto was seen pointing for Kerkering to throw to first base and, afterwards, Kim said he was equally surprised the pitcher chose to throw home. The Dodgers second baseman initially ran past home plate before returning to touch it.
While wild celebrations sparked around him, Kerkering was left standing motionless, head bowed, in the middle of the field, before some of his Phillies teammates came to comfort him.
“Just hit off my foot,” Kerkering, still visibly emotional, told reporters after the game.
“Once the pressure got to me, I just thought there’s a little faster throw to JT, little quicker throw than trying to cross-body it to Bryce (Harper at first). So just a horsesh*t throw.”
Dodgers players flooded onto the field to celebrate the win. Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Imagn / Reuters via CNN Newsource
Kerkering added that his Phillies teammates were quick to shoulder some of the blame themselves for several missed opportunities throughout the game.
Philadelphia manager Rob Thomson also had words of support for Kerkering when speaking to reporters after the defeat. The pair had been seen speaking together as the relief pitcher trudged off the field.
“He just got caught up in the moment a little bit,” Thomson said. “Coming down the stretch, he pitched so well for us.
“I feel for him because he’s putting it all on his shoulders, but we win as a team and lose as a team.”
The Dodgers, meanwhile, progressed into the NLCS for the eighth time in the last 13 seasons, where they will face either the Chicago Cubs or the Milwaukee Brewers – who play a series-deciding Game 5 of their NLDS on Saturday night in Wisconsin after the Cubs won Game 4 6-0 at Wrigley Field.
The team’s celebrations in the locker room post-game showed a squad eager to enjoy every bit of its World Series title defense.
“That was a nail-biter,” Dodgers catcher Will Smith, soaked in beer, said after the victory. “They cracked. We didn’t.”
Watching the Phillies in the playoffs the last three seasons has been excruciating. Anyone hoping for something different this season, think again. It ended in a complete disaster. It’s tough not to feel for Kerkering a little bit, but that is an inexcusable error. He has struggled with runners on base all season. It was unfair to bring him in there. The worst part is he ended up making the pitches and got the ground ball. But instead of a calm cool collected throw to first Kerkering panicked. One of the most gut wrenching things I have witnessed.
What Really Went Wrong
We can look up all the stats, splits, and percentages we want. But the eye test tells you all you need to know. The bats failed to show up. Turner, Schwarber, and Harper showed up for one of the four games. But that’s why you lose a series right? The big players didn’t produce. So now they go home. What puzzles me about the offense is their inability to adjust. Now, four straight seasons of chasing pitches at bat after at bat. Every batter wanting to win the game in one pitch. The goal should have been to have the best at bat for the team. Instead guys are up there hacking away trying to have a moment.
The Phils made Glasnow throw 19 pitches in the first inning. Even though they didn’t score, that’s a successful inning and part of winning baseball games. You have to make pitchers work. Obviously, the Phillies did the opposite. Glasnow cruised through 6 innings. If the Phillies kept grinding away he should’ve been on the ropes by the 5th inning. There are many ways to blame the offense for the losses. But overall it was their inability to make anything happen. JT and Kepler were really the only two guys to hit, The stars and the bats let the fans and the pitching staff down.
Topper, Topper, Topper
I have many gripes with Rob Thomson. Yes, he has done a great job at bringing this group together. He has the Phillies playing great regular season baseball. They are fun to watch again and in an Eagles city, when the Phillies are good it’s a baseball town. But then, the playoffs. Whatever happened in 2022 is not there anymore. The players have to win the game, but there have been countless decisions from the manager that have hurt the club in the postseason.
Game One
With a fully rested bullpen Thomson decided to bring Robertson back out for the 7th inning. This forced Strahm to come in with multiple runners on. The decision to bring Robertson back out is what cost them. A reliever comes into a high leverage situation with their adrenaline pumping. He did his job and got out of the jam, he should have never gone back into the game. Topper overthinking the bullpen once again.
Game Two
The Phillies had life. With no outs Nick Castellanos doubled in Realmuto and Bohm. The offense was finally rolling. Three straight hits. Zero outs. Ninth inning. Citizens Bank Park going absolutely nuts.
Bunt – ball one. Bunt again – Castellanos gunned down at third.
This was one of the worst decisions I have ever seen. The Dodgers couldn’t buy an out in that inning. Even Castellanos doubled on that outside pitch he strikes out on all the time (you know the one).
All the momentum in the world was on the Phillies side. And then he gave them an out. Rob said here you go a free out and the Dodgers said thank you. In your last at bat in the game, the manager gave the other team an out. I was stunned. Topper has no feel for the game going on around him. He even admitted in his press conference he was playing for the tie. A shocking statement to hear. That is the complete wrong mindset coming from the manager.
Stott has had multiple playoff moments for the Phillies. He’s come up with big hits each post season. Thomson should trust him to come through. Do you think Dave Roberts would have made Tommy Edmunds bunt in that situation? No chance. Stott wasn’t even given an opportuninty to hit. No doubt in my mind the Phillies win that game if Stott doesn’t bunt.
Those were the two big decisions that cost the Phillies in this series. Although, all of this is not on Rob Thomson, I believe this team has gone as far as they will with him. He doesn’t have quite the right feel of how to manage postseason games. He never seems to pull the right strings. It may be time to move on at the end of the season.
What’s Next
This team is clearly in need of a shake up. I am not sure if blowing it up is the right call. Dombrowski should prioritize Realmuto, Schwarber, and Suarez. They haven’t shown up recently, but I believe the core of Turner, Schwarber, Harper, and Realmuto can get the job done. They need to step up in the playoffs, but I believe in those guys.
There are a couple of spots the Phillies need to address. They need to find a clean up hitter. The front office should look to upgrade in right and at third. It’s time to move on from Castellanos and Bohm. It would be nice to see Bader back in center. The ship has run its course for some of this crew and hopefully the roster looks a little different next season.
The Los Angeles Dodgers topped the Philadelphia Phillies following an 11-inning thriller in Game 4 of the National League Division Series on Thursday night.
The Dodgers had the bases loaded with two outs in the bottom of the 11th with outfielder Andy Pages at the plate against Phillies reliever Orion Kerkering. Pages hit a bouncing grounder to Kerkering, who had a tough time fielding the ball. He needed to make a rushed throw to the catcher J.T. Realmuto, but he tossed it too high and out of his reach.
Los Angeles Dodgers’ Hyeseong Kim, center, scores the game-winning run past Philadelphia Phillies catcher J.T. Realmuto (10) on a ground ball by Andy Pages and a throwing error by Phillies pitcher Orion Kerkering during the eleventh inning in Game 4 of baseball’s National League Division Series Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025, in Los Angeles.(AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)
Hyeseong Kim scored the game-winning run to give Los Angeles the 2-1 victory. The Dodgers’ World Series title defense was still alive.
Phillies players were seen consoling Kerkering in the dugout as he stared out at the field in disbelief.
Philadelphia drew first blood in the top of the seventh. Nick Castellanos doubled to left field and scored Max Kepler. Philadelphia just needed to use its depth in the bullpen to keep Los Angeles at bay and live to play at least one more game.
Los Angeles Dodgers’ Hyeseong Kim (6) celebrates with Shohei Ohtani after scoring the game-winning run on a ground ball from Andy Pages and throwing error from Philadelphia Phillies relief pitcher Orion Kerkering during the eleventh inning in Game 4 of baseball’s National League Division Series Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025, in Los Angeles.(AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)
However, Cristopher Sanchez walked Mookie Betts. It allowed Justin Dean to score and tie the game.
The Dodgers received a huge pitching performance from Roki Sasaki. The rookie, who was originally signed over from Japan to be a starter, delivered three scoreless innings for the Dodgers. He struck out two on 36 pitches.
Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Roki Sasaki claps on the mound during the eighth inning in Game 4 of baseball’s National League Division Series against the Philadelphia Phillies, Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)
Ben Verbrugge is a freelance sportswriter with a journalism degree from CSU Dominguez Hills. He is a member of the Los Angeles media and spends most of his time covering the NBA, NFL, and MLB. When not writing, he is either playing or watching sports.
🎙️ Voice is AI-generated. Inconsistencies may occur.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto and the Los Angeles Dodgers will face Trea Turner and the Philadelphia Phillies in Game 3 of the National League Division Series on Wednesday.
Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers at bat against the Philadelphia Phillies at Dodger Stadium on September 15, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers at bat against the Philadelphia Phillies at Dodger Stadium on September 15, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. Ronald Martinez/Getty Images
The Dodgers are on a mission to win back-to-back championships, and so far during the postseason, they appear to be the best team in baseball once again. They hold a 2-0 lead over Philadelphia and can advance to the NLCS with a win on Wednesday night.
The bats at the top of the order have been quiet for the Phillies as the first three hitters in the lineup have combined to go 1-15 through the first two games. Bryce Harper, Trea Turner, and Kyle Schwarber are some of the most feared players in the league, but they will face a tough test in Game 3 facing Yoshinobu Yamamoto.
Yamamoto is one of several All-Star-level pitchers in the Dodgers’ rotation, and he has made a name for himself delivering in big games just two seasons into his MLB career. He has given up 1 run or fewer in 6 consecutive starts, and if he can do so again, Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman will likely take care of the rest.
This is a fantastic MLB matchup that you will not want to miss; make sure to tune in and catch all the action.
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Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper gave an honest take on fans booing him during the first two games of the National League Division Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Harper has been poor throughout the series, hitting 1-for-7 with three strikeouts, one walk and no runs or RBIs. He has only a single, failing to deliver against both right-handed and left-handed pitchers so far.
The Phillies had home-field advantage, hosting the Dodgers at Citizens Bank Park, but they squandered both games, primarily due to their offense and bullpen not supporting the Phillies’ starters.
While Game 1 did not feature many boo birds, Game 2 did, especially as frustrations with the offense — namely the big three of Harper, Kyle Schwarber, and Trea Turner — grew over 18 innings of poor batting.
Harper got his own personal chorus of groans from the crowd, though he did not take it as a personal attack.
“I love playing at the Bank. I love our fans. I boo myself when I get out. I’m the same way,” he said after the game when asked about the boos.
“I trust in what they do. They show up for us every day, day in and day out. So if we deserve to be booed, if we deserve to — they spend their hard-earned dollar to come watch us play; they expect greatness out of us and I expect greatness out of myself and my teammates as well.
“If they believe that, I don’t know what’s going through their head or mindset. We’ve got some of the best fans in baseball, and they make me play better. So I enjoy it.
“I will probably get booed tomorrow night, too. So it’s kind of the same thing. It’s, like, what are we talking about? Same stuff.”
Harper and the Phillies will get a chance to start making things right on Wednesday at Dodger Stadium as they go on the road for an elimination game against Dodgers ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto.
The Phillies had the entire city riled up and ready for another deep postseason run after finishing 96-66 and getting a first-round bye. Everyone knew the Dodgers wouldn’t be easy, but when your top three guys refuse to show up when it matters most and your manager continues to make terrible decisions, you won’t often find yourself in a winning situation.
To be very blunt, the 2025 Philadelphia Phillies are who we thought they were.
Same Results, Different Year
The Phillies are down 0-2 and would need to win three games in a row against the Dodgers, with the next two games in Los Angeles. I’m not gonna sit here and feed optimism when this team has given nothing for us to be optimistic about.
The Phillies are 1-7 in their last eight playoff games. They refuse to work any ABs, and when they do, they end up swinging at what would be ball four most of the time. Trea Turner, Kyle Schwarber, and Bryce Harper have disappeared. Those three in this series are 1-21. I’m gonna say that again. The top three hitters in this lineup are 1-21. I don’t care if you’re playing the Colorado Rockies, you aren’t gonna win games with the top three guys on your team going 1-21 at home in a series. The middle and bottom parts of the order haven’t been any better. This team couldn’t hit water if they fell out of a boat right now.
No one in the order has stepped up and tried to provide a spark. Nick Castellanos had a two-run double in the 9th inning of game two that barely got me excited because I just knew the Phillies were gonna find a way to ruin the situation.
Rob Thomson Strikes Again
Following the double from Castellanos, Bryson Stott then bunted with 0 outs, runner at second, which resulted in Castellanos being thrown out at third. I nearly turned the game off. Bunting in that situation comes from the manager, and boy oh boy would I love to know Rob’s thought process behind this one.
You are handcuffed because, with Bader dealing with a groin injury, you had to save a pitch runner for Bader. You can’t run for Castellanos, but Castellanos doesn’t run well, so what do you do? HAVE STOTT SWING THE BAT. THIS IS BASEBALL!
I understand the concept of moving the runner over, but once again, Thomson’s lack of baseball feel strikes again. The crowd was finally into it, the tying run is at second with 0 outs, and you bunt into an out at third and kill any rally you had. Just to top it off, Bader would single in the next AB that would’ve likely scored Castellanos. Can’t make this stuff up.
This 9th-inning debacle by Rob Thomson wasn’t even his worst moment of the night. Thomson decided to go with Orion Kerkering out of the bullpen first when Jesus Luzardo ran into trouble in the 7th. Luzardo pitched a gem in this game and is the only Phillie worth noting from last night. Luzardo had runners on second and third when Thomson pulled him and put in Kerkering.
Let me remind you, Kerkering has been terrible inheriting runner all season. One look at a stat sheet and anyone who works in baseball would be able to tell you that. Everyone but Rob Thoms, apparently. He puts in Kerkering, who immediately gives up two runs after nearly getting an out at home. The Dodgers would add on, giving themselves a 4-0 lead in the 7th. Since August, Kerkering has let 8/13 inherited runners score when he comes out of the bullpen. That is not good. Going to Kerkering in that situation is a terrible decision, knowing he’s not good with runners on base. I would’ve much rather seen Strahm in that situation, who was up and warm.
If the Phillies go to LA and lose game three, getting swept in this fashion is more than enough of a reason for the organization to have a long conversation this offseason about the players and staff on this ball club. The team has gotten better every year since 2022, and yet the results are worse and worse. At this point, players and coaches need to be held accountable.
Heading to LA
The Phillies will travel to Los Angeles today and play game three of the series Wednesday night at 9:08. The Dodgers will start Yoshinobu Yamamoto (12-8, 2.49 ERA, 201 Ks), and the Phillies will start Aaron Nola (5-10, 6.01ERA, 97 Ks). As you can tell, the pitching matchup heavily leans in the Dodgers’ favor. Maybe the struggling offense will get going since they are away from home.
The Phillies will be playing for their season Wednesday night and avoid getting swept 3-0 in embarrassing fashion.
