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Game Day Details: Phillies vs. Colorado Rockies on Monday, March 31st, 2025, with the first pitch scheduled for 3:05 PM ET at Citizens Bank Park. Lefty Cristopher Sanchez takes the mound for the Phillies against Rockies' right-hander German Marquez.
Pre-Game Buzz: Festivities kick off early with tailgating lots opening at 10 AM and stadium gates at 12:35 PM. A special "Welcome Home Phillies" broadcast airs on NBC10 at 2 PM ET, followed by the player parade onto the field at 2:20 PM. Kane Kalas, son of legendary broadcaster Harry Kalas, will sing the National Anthem, accompanied by a flyover. 10-year-old Nemours patient Briar Jones will throw out the ceremonial first pitch to Brandon Marsh.
New Park Experiences: Fans can look forward to exciting new food options like the unique S'mores Quesadilla and Kyle's Cutlets chicken sandwich (benefiting charity). New beverages include Jason Kelce's Garage Beer and Rob McElhenney's Wrexham Lager. Exclusive merchandise debuts, featuring custom-designed Victus bats by Bruce "The Bat King" Tatem and new Phanatic gear like an adult onesie.
Why this matters: The home opener is more than just the first home game; it's a celebration of Philadelphia's passionate baseball community. This year's event is enhanced with new offerings designed to improve the fan experience, alongside cherished traditions welcoming the team back.
Game Day Festivities:
The day begins early for eager fans, with tailgating lots (A-H, M, N, O) opening at 10 AM, and remaining lots at noon. Gates to Citizens Bank Park open at 12:35 PM. Fans can tune into the "Welcome Home Phillies" special on NBC10 at 2 PM ET for exclusive content, including interviews with Phillies legend Jimmy Rollins and owner John Middleton, a look at Cole Hamels' new broadcasting role, and a feature on Bryson Stott granting a Make-a-Wish fan's dream.
The on-field ceremony starts at 2:20 PM with the parade of players, followed by team introductions. Kane Kalas performs the anthem near his father's statue, highlighted by a flyover from the 177th Fighter Wing of the NJ Air National Guard. Briar Jones, a brave 10-year-old patient from Nemours Children’s Hospital, will throw the ceremonial first pitch to outfielder Brandon Marsh. Later, the Philadelphia Boys Choir will perform "God Bless America" during the seventh inning.
What's New at The Bank?
Aramark and the Phillies have introduced several new items for 2025:
Food: Highlights include Kyle's Cutlets (chicken cutlet, fried pepperoni, burrata, hot honey on a Liscio's roll) at Coca Cola Corner, with proceeds benefiting Kyle Schwarber's charity. The talked-about S'mores Quesadilla (Nutella, marshmallows in a tortilla) is also available. Other additions are the Pass and Stow Crispy Chicken Sandwich and a Black Bean Burger at Greens & Grains. Sweet treats include Four Walls Irish Coffee Tiramisu and a limited-time Red Velvet Affogato. Don't miss the cotton candy that comes with a wearable foam Phanatic mask!
Drinks: Local and celebrity-tied options arrive with Garage Beer (Jason & Travis Kelce) and Wrexham Lager (Rob McElhenney & Ryan Reynolds). Citizens Bank Park is the first stadium outside Wales to offer Wrexham Lager.
Merchandise: The Phillies Team Store features exclusive custom Victus baseball bats designed by Bruce "The Bat King" Tatem, known for creating unique bats for players like Bryce Harper. New Phillie Phanatic items include an adult onesie, a suit jacket, and a piggy bank, building on the popularity of past items like the dangle hat.
Know Before You Go:
Weather: The forecast calls for cloudy skies with a high near 75°F. There's a 50% chance of showers, and thunderstorms are possible after 5 PM, so pack rain gear.
Bag Policy: Only clear bags (12"x6"x12"), small clutch purses/fanny packs (5"x7"), medical bags, and diaper bags are permitted.
Giveaway: All fans attending the home opener will receive a 2024 NL East Championship pennant, courtesy of Nemours Children’s Health.
Q: What time is the Phillies home opener?
A: The game against the Colorado Rockies is Monday, March 31st, 2025, at 3:05 PM ET. Gates open at 12:35 PM, and tailgating lots open at 10 AM.
Q: What's new at Citizens Bank Park this year?
A: Fans can enjoy new food like Kyle's Cutlets and S'mores Quesadillas, drinks like Garage Beer and Wrexham Lager, exclusive custom bats by Bruce Tatem, and fun new Phanatic merchandise including an adult onesie.
Q: How can I watch or listen to the game?
A: The game will be broadcast on NBC10 and NBCSP+. Radio coverage is available on 94WIP and WDEL 101.7 FM/1150 AM. Streaming options include NBCSportsPhiladelphia.com, the NBC Sports app, Peacock, and MLB.TV (subscriptions may be required). Pre-game coverage starts at 2 PM ET.
Arrive early to enjoy the pre-game festivities, including the Budweiser Block Party and player parade.
Be prepared for potential rain and know the stadium's bag policy before you leave.
Explore the new concessions and merchandise stands for unique tastes and souvenirs.
Tune into the pre-game shows for special interviews and features on the team.
Embrace the energy of opening day and cheer on the Phillies!
Are you heading to the home opener or watching from home? What are you most excited about for this Phillies season? Let us know your thoughts!
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Image URL: https://www.yanuki.com/images/shohei-ohtani-2026-performance.jpg Shohei Ohtani continues to redefine greatness in Major League B...
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