The Philadelphia Phillies are set to open their home-ground, Citizens Bank Park, as they take on the Cincinnati Reds in their first home game of the 2023 season. The much-awaited game is scheduled for April 7th at 3:05 pm, and pre-game festivities will begin at approximately 2:15 pm.
New state-of-the-art scoreboard and enhanced fan experience
The Phillies have several offerings in store for their loyal fan base this season. In an effort to enhance fan experience, the Phillies unveiled their new state-of-the-art Phanavision scoreboard. This scoreboard is 77% larger than the old one and is now recognized as the third largest in MLB. Fans will also be able to walk through the entrance gates without stopping to open bags or being checked individually thanks to Evolv Technology.
New concessions offerings and partnerships
To add further excitement and variety to the food menu, new food options will be available to delight the taste buds of fans. A limited-time seasonally inspired food and beverage program called “Seasons Inning Stretch” will be introduced. Additionally, a partnership with Coca-Cola Corner featuring seven Philadelphia-area restaurants will offer a broader range of dining options.
Local partnerships will include Federal Donuts Chicken Tenders, Greens & Grains, Manco and Manco, P.J. Whelihan’s Cheesesteak Egg Rolls, and Uncle Charlie’s Steaks that will make sure fans enjoy not just baseball but savorable meals too.
Transport arrangements for fans
SEPTA will offer extra trains to supplement regular service to NRG Station so that it’s easier for fans to travel to Citizens Bank Park. Starting from April 20th, Uber will provide a RideShare in Lot T for all Citizens Bank Park and Wells Fargo Center events.
Phillies’ 5-2 win over Cincinnati
The Philadelphia Phillies hosted the Cincinnati Reds in front of a sold-out crowd in their first home game of the season. The Phillies were determined to claim their first victory at home, having lost five out of six road games in two different time zones.
J.T. Realmuto hit a two-run homer in the seventh inning, breaking a tie and leading the Phillies to a 5-2 victory over the Cincinnati Reds. Phillies pitcher Zack Wheeler went 5 1/3 innings and kept the team ahead, while the bullpen shut down the Reds in the later innings to record this vital win for the Phillies.
First baseman Darick Hall was placed on the 10-day injured list with a thumb sprain, and Kody Clemens was called up from the minor leagues to take his place.
Bryce Harper who had previously undergone surgery on his elbow took batting practice before the game but still needs to be cleared to slide and throw on-field.
Upcoming games and schedule
Following their recent win, the Phillies will look forward to playing more home games against non-playoff teams, giving them an ideal opportunity to get back on track. The team has had a rough start to this year’s season, with several injured players and only one win from six games. Fans will hope their recent win protects them from further disappointment.
Their upcoming game against Cincinnati may not be easy for the Phillies, as they face flamethrowing right-hander Hunter Greene’s stuff. Greene’s most recent homestand has seen him average five runs per game with his eight consecutive starts seeing eight strikeouts or more each time. Meanwhile, Zack Wheeler will start at home at Citizens Bank Park, where he has an impressive 1.85 ERA.
With predicted low scoring chances and much at stake for both teams during this upcoming match, fans eagerly anticipate what the future holds for the Phillies in the many games ahead.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
