Phillies Nation

Photos from St. Paddy’s Day Tailgate

Posted by Brian Michael, Sat, March 20, 2010 12:54 PM

When the calendar hits March 17, you know it’s time for another Phillies Nation St. Paddy’s Day tailgate party. The skies were grey prior to the Phillies-Yankees game at Bright House Network Field in Clearwater, but that didn’t dampen the our spirits – that job was reserved for Guinness and Yuengling.

Permalink | Comments (6) | Trackback (0)

Opening Day in DC Waitlist

Posted by Brian Michael, Tue, March 02, 2010 12:12 AM

The Opening Day trip to see the Phillies battle the Nationals in DC is sold out.  If you are still interested in attending, please fill out the form below and we will notify you if more spots become available.

cforms contact form by delicious:days

Permalink | Comments (5) | Trackback (0)

Baseball Umpires: A Secret Society

Posted by Brian Michael, Thu, February 25, 2010 10:32 AM

Last week, I attended a program hosted by the Smithsonian in Washington, DC titled Baseball Umpires: A Secret Society. It was held at the National Museum of the American Indian and the crowd was comprised mostly of older white guys with a penchant for mid-century baseball. Luckily, I was sitting alongside some fellow NL East blogger friends.

The program featured former American League umpire and owner of a professional umpiring school, Jim Evans; 10-year veteran MLB umpire Ted Barrett; and New York Times columnist and author of As They See ‘Em: A Fan’s Travels in the Land of Umpires, Bruce Weber. With the help of moderator Phil Hochberg, a DC public address institution, they discussed intricacies of the strange and mysterious world of umpires. Did you know that in a given year, there are only 68 umpires in the majors, meaning less than 2,000 umpires have graced the fields of the big leagues all time?

When asked what is the hardest call to make in baseball, everyone agreed it is the steal of home.  It happened twice in the World Series and as we recall Chase Utley and Jayson Werth have done it more recently. Both Evans and Barrett said the number of things you have to watch for is unparalleled – a pitcher’s balk, catcher’s interference, batter’s interference, whether or not the pitch is a strike or ball, if there was a check swing, if it hit the batter, not to mention the fact that you are severely out of position to make the out/safe call at the plate. Evans admitted that there are undoubtedly plays where something out-of-the-ordinary happens and the out of position umpire is forced to make an educated guess on the actual outcome.

Another interesting anecdote was the one word that will warrant an automatic ejection.  It’s not the f- word, but rather “you”.  Yes, making an argument personal with the umpire (alongside a profanity-laced tirade, no doubt) will almost always get the manager sent to an early shower.

When asked about steroids in baseball, both umps said that although they did not have any direct knowledge of them being used, there were certainly players that had noticeable growth spurts that were suspicious.  This conversation led into the power of certain baseball players and Evans recalled a time when Albert Belle broke his bat on a check swing; with he and Jim Rice being the two most powerful guys they’ve experienced at the plate.

Also covered was the umpire evaluation systems which they believe has essentially has made strike zone is smaller.  Similarly, before 1975, AL umpires wore chest pads outside their uniform that made it more difficult for them to crouch behind catchers. With them standing higher, this led to an AL strike zone that sat a few inches higher than the NL.  After 1975, with the standardization of umpire uniforms, the zone regressed down to NL-standards.

Finally, when asked what’s the deal with a double plays that are turned without the SS or 2B touching second, Evans commented that they call what managers, owners and the powers-that-be want them to call. He referenced the one year, when they were instructed to call balks much more stringently. After calling 400 balks prior to the All-Star Break (the previous record was 80 in a single season), MLB reversed its policy and instructed umps call the balk less.

Being an umpire is a thankless job, but it takes a special kind of man (no women are currently in the umpiring system, but there have been a few) – one who takes pride in seeing a well-officiated game of baseball be played.  In that sense, they’re much like us fans, who just want to see an entertaining game…in which the Phillies win.  Hat tip to Kristen for the photos.

Permalink | Comments (21) | Trackback (0)

Submit Your Recipes for the Phillies Nation Tailgate Cookbook

Posted by Brian Michael, Thu, February 04, 2010 11:42 AM

As you may have heard, we’re collecting recipes for the first edition of our Tailgate Cookbook. We’ve already had many creative submissions like “Grand Salami Pie” and “Philly Phanatic Honey Dew Melon Daiquiris”.

Preferably, the recipe can be prepared in a parking lot using portable equipment, but if you’re more of a couch tailgater and have a special food you like, you can submit that too. Our book will cover three chapters: tailgating at the park, tailgating at home, and tailgating with booze (food and drink recipes using alcohol).

We’ll test all the recipes and select the most delicious ones to be published (with credit) in our book. Use the form below to enter or upload your favorites and email us with any questions.

cforms contact form by delicious:days

Permalink | Comments (0) | Trackback (0)

Darren Daulton’s Celeb Darts Outing a Success

Posted by Pat Gallen, Mon, February 01, 2010 10:26 AM

It was a great turnout for a great cause.  McFadden’s Ballpark was packed with Phillies fans of all ages to support Darren Daulton’s favorite charity; the Arc of Philadelphia.  Garry Maddox, Larry Christensen, and Larry Anderson all played darts with fans (including myself) and all had a blast.  “Dutch” put together a great night, and was helped by Michael Barkann of CSN, and his wife, Ellen.  Barkann was the emcee of the event.  Here are some pictures:

Permalink | Comments (11) | Trackback (0)

Darren Daulton Celebrity Dart Tournament at McFadden’s

Posted by Brian Michael, Mon, January 25, 2010 03:57 PM

This Thursday Darren Daulton will host a Celebrity Dart Night with former Phillies Gary Maddox, John Kruk, Larry Anderson and many other VIP guests at McFadden’s Ballpark. The festivities begin at 7pm with an open bar package and buffet dinner. Michael Barkann from Comcast Sportsnet will serve as the emcee. At 8pm the Dart Tournament will begin, each participant who enters the Tournament will have the opportunity to throw darts with each of the celebrity guests (including our own Pat Gallen!).

Phillies Nation readers have exclusive access to discounted tickets, so if you’re looking to scratch that baseball itch, reserve your spot today.

$40 Event Supporter ($10 off the normal price) includes all-you-can-eat buffet and an open bar.

$100 Player Entry ($25 off the normal price) includes one spot in the tournament, all-you-can-eat buffet, open bar, plus a piece of autographed memorabilia

Permalink | Comments (13) | Trackback (0)

Opening Day Bus Trip to DC – ON SALE NOW

Posted by Brian Michael, Thu, January 21, 2010 07:30 PM

The wait is over. This year’s much anticipated Opening Day road trip to Washington, DC to see the Phillies take on the Nationals will take place on Monday, April 5th and tickets are on sale now!

The game starts at at 1:05 pm in DC, so we will be leaving from the P Lot at Citizens Bank Park at 7am sharp to avoid rush hour traffic.

Tickets cost $82 and include:

• Seat to and from DC on a comfy motorcoach showing classic Phillies videos
• Tickets to the game in Section 107
• Tailgate party in parking lot and refreshments on the bus (including some fancy beers)
• Lots of Phillies and Phillies Nation giveaways

Click here to reserve your spot today! And if you live in the DC-area, come meet us for just the tailgate or game.

Also, be sure to check out our discounted tickets to Darren Daulton’s Darts Tournament at McFadden’s next week.

Permalink | Comments (34) | Trackback (0)

2010 Season Road Trips

Posted by Brian Michael, Thu, January 14, 2010 09:03 AM

Here are the dates we are considering for road trips during the Phillies 2010 season. There will be varying levels of organized involvement for all of these dates, however the first two are set in stone – a tailgate party on St. Paddy’s Day in Clearwater and bus trip to DC for Opening Day.

March 17 – Clearwater, FL
April 5 – Opening Day in DC
June 12, 13 – Boston
July 3, 4 – Pittsburgh
July 17, 18 – Chicago
July 31 – Washington, DC
August 1 – Washington, DC
August 14, 15 – NY Mets
September 11, 12 – NY Mets

Let us know if you’re interested in traveling to any of these road games and stay tuned for more details.

Permalink | Comments (51) | Trackback (0)

Submit Your Recipes Today for the Philly Tailgate Cookbook

Posted by Brian Michael, Mon, January 11, 2010 02:15 PM

There’s no doubt Phillies fans love to party. Whether it’s before, during or after a game, there are some things that enhance the atmosphere of a baseball game (or any sporting event for that matter). Here at Phillies Nation, we place a high priority on the experience of a game which is why we offer tailgate parties, road trips, gameday chats, and nightly beer recommendations. In keeping with that tradition, we are compiling recipes to create a Philly Tailgate Cookbook and are looking for your favorite recipes.

We’re not just talking about hot dogs and hamburgers – more like whole stuffed turkeys or your dad’s secret chili recipe. Preferably, the recipe can be prepared in a parking lot using portable equipment, but if you’re more of a couch tailgater and have a special food you like (maybe a jabangin’ wing recipe) you can submit that too.

We’ll test all the recipes and select the most delicious ones to be published (with credit) in our book. Use the form below to enter or upload your favorites and email us with any questions.

cforms contact form by delicious:days

Permalink | Comments (9) | Trackback (0)

Join Us for Spring Training 2010

Posted by Brian Michael, Mon, December 21, 2009 08:06 AM

More so than Santa’s impending visit, I can not wait for Spring Training. The Phillies will be back with a vengeance in just over two months as they escape the cold northeast for sunny Clearwater.

If you plan on heading south in March for some Phillies fun in the sun, then you should meet up with us for our 4th annual St. Patrick’s Day tailgate outside Bright House Networks Field.  There will be plenty of free food, beer and giveaways.

Oh yea, did I mention the Phillies are playing the Yankees?  So yea, it’ll be as big as a Spring Training game can get.  Even if you don’t have plans yet, start thinking about it – a trip makes a great last-minute gift idea.

If you’re interested in coming, sign up below and we’ll send you more details as the date approaches.  In the meantime, keep shoveling that snow!

cforms contact form by delicious:days

Permalink | Comments (3) | Trackback (1)

Jimmy Rollins BASEBowl Tournament

Posted by Brian Michael, Mon, December 07, 2009 11:32 AM

Jimmy Rollins will be hosting his 5th annual celebrity bowling tournament featuring Phillies, sports personalities and entertainers, teamed with bowling foursomes to benefit the Pennsylvania Arthritis Foundation. Last year’s event was a crazy success with our own Pat Gallen providing play-by-play coverage of all the stars. There were over 35 celebrities in attendance including: Ryan Howard, Chase Utley, Cole Hamels, Shane Victorino as well as several Eagles and Flyers. Each bowling team is paired with one or two of Jimmy’s celebrity friends while food and an open bar is provide throughout the entire tournament.

The bowling competition, awards ceremony and auction will be held on on June 3, 2010 from 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at Lucky Strike Bowling Alley in Center City Philadelphia.  For more information on attending the event through a corporate sponsorship, please see this Sponsorship Sheet, then contact us for more details.

The Jimmy Rollins Family Foundation (501c3) has the mission of bringing funds and awareness to fight against arthritis as well as provide families who are struggling financially with educational and entertainment opportunities to encourage children to stay in school.

The money raised at BASEBowl funds Camp JRA which allows children with arthritis and other rheumatic diseases to have fun, learn about their disease, and form social bonds with others who share their challenges.

Photos from last year’s event:

Permalink | Comments (1) | Trackback (0)

Photos from Game 1 Watching Party in DC

Posted by Brian Michael, Thu, October 29, 2009 03:22 PM

Last night the Nation descended upon Ventnor Sports Cafe in Adams Morgan, DC. Both floors were packed with rowdy Phillies fans and Scott the owner had pretzels shipped down from Philly. A lone Yankees fan was there to witness the mayhem and he was the only one with a camera, so hat tip to Corey.

Permalink | Comments (1) | Trackback (0)

Game 1 and Game 2 Watching Parties

Posted by Brian Michael, Tue, October 27, 2009 12:43 PM

Ok folks, the World Series are upon us. If you haven’t been wearing your Phillies gear all week, then you better start now. You should also start making plans for watching the games in a fun environment. If your immediate vicinity is not full of fans, then I suggest you patronize your local Phillies bar. Below I’ve listed the specials happening at some of the bars in the big cities around the country – all these places will be packed with Phillies fans. For directions to any of these bars or to find your spot in a city not listed, check out our Phillies Bars page and enjoy the games!

NEW YORK
Shorty’s

• $12 pitchers
• 22 beers on tap
• $8 cheesesteak and beer
• Whiz cheesesteak sliders on special
• Fox Philadelphia will be filming during Game 1

WASHINGTON, DC
Ventnor Sports Cafe

• Yuengling will be on special
• Cheesesteaks on special
• Pretzels are going to be shipped down  for game 1
• I’ll be there for Game 1

BALTIMORE
MaGerk’s

Wednesday 7PM to 10PM:

• .50¢ Wing Night
• $2 Blue Moons
• $1 Coors Light Bottles
• $1.50 Miller Lite and Yuengling Drafts

Thursday 7PM to 10PM:

• $4 Cheesesteak Night
• $1 Coors Light Bottles
• 9pm to Close – $1 Domestics Bottles

PHILLY
McFadden’s Ballpark
Chickie’s & Pete’s
Grey Lodge - $3 Sly Fox cans for Phillies games

PHOENIX
Upper Deck

SAN FRANCISCO
Kezar’s

CHICAGO
Mad River

• $6 cheesesteaks
• $2 Coors Light bottles

DENVER
Pat’s Downtown Bar & Grill.

• $2 Bud, Bud Light PBR, Rolling Rock
• $4 Jager bombs
• $2 kamazies
• $7 pitchers

LONDON, UK
Sports Cafe - 1 pound pints Wednesday night

Permalink | Comments (26) | Trackback (0)

Game 1 Watching Party Thursday at McFadden’s Ballpark

Posted by Brian Michael, Wed, October 14, 2009 11:11 AM

For all NLCS away games we will continuing to rock Citizens Bank Park like it’s a home game. So if you’re in the Philly area, come to McFadden’s on Thursday at 7pm for another awesome game watching party.

Besides watching the Phils, there will be lots going on so make sure to sign up for the VIP list below. This will get you a bracelet at the door entitling you to $3 domestic drafts and mixed drinks during the game. Furthermore, if you want to rock an awesome Phillies Nation or Philly Phaithful t-shirt being sold at the door – your first drink is FREE! Plus if you buy a shirt, you’ll be entered to win a $25.00 gift card to McFadden’s. There will be lots of other fun stuff going on like giveaways and local celebrity appearances so wear your red and come have a great time watching the Phillies. Sign up now!

cforms contact form by delicious:days

Permalink | Comments (3) | Trackback (0)

Game 4 Watching Party Tonight at McFadden’s Ballpark

Posted by Brian Michael, Mon, October 12, 2009 11:33 AM

Since it snowed Saturday in Denver we had to reschedule our game watching party at McFadden’s in Citizens Bank Park to TONIGHT at 5pm.

Besides watching the Phils, there will be lots going on so make sure to sign up for the VIP list below. This will get you a bracelet at the door entitling you to $3 domestic drafts and mixed drinks during the game. Furthermore, if you want to rock an awesome Phillies Nation or Philly Phaithful t-shirt being sold at the door – your first drink is FREE! Plus if you buy a shirt, you’ll be entered to win a $25.00 gift card to McFadden’s.

ALSO JUST ADDED: Darren Daulton and Glen Macnow will be taping a show for 1210 AM from 4 to 5pm.  So come for Dutch, stay for the party!

cforms contact form by delicious:days

Permalink | Comments (2) | Trackback (0)