Epic Phillies Game Saving Play At Home Plate

The Phillies game on Monday, April 15th resulted in extra innings but it was the top of the ninth inning that was by far the most nerve-racking for those who were watching.

Set the scene, runners on first and third, Rockies on offense, Phillies on defense. On the mound, Jeff Hoffman. On third base, pinch runner Kyle Freeland who is actually a starting pitcher for their ballclub. I'm not exactly sure why they pinch ran a pitcher out there, doesn't seem very smart to me, but hey, it's not my team.

That's when an errant pitch got away from the catcher J.T. Realmuto. Hoffman rushes to home plate as Freeland breaks for home. A great toss, great catch, and even better tag gets the runner out at home avoiding what would have been a go-ahead run.

See the video here.

If you thought that was exciting, you just have to wait until you see what happened in the bottom of the tenth inning. A sacrifice bunt moves Bryson Stott to third base and then, it happened.

Christian Pache came to the plate with two outs. He came in to pinch run earlier in the game and now with a bat in his hand, he has all the pressure of Citizens Bank Park with the game on the line. Then this happened...

The team is out for blood this season after a heartbreaking loss to the Houston Astros in the 2022 World Series followed by a National League Championship Series exit in the 2023 playoffs. They want this now more than ever. Since beginning the season 0-2 after back-to-back losses to the Atlanta Braves, they haven't loss two straight games since (as of April 16th, 2024).

They team is looking good, for the whole schedule and more, check out Phillies.com.

Citizens Bank Park became the home of the Philadelphia Phillies 20 years ago, and the ballpark will debut new food and special merchandise options as part of a year-long milestone celebration.

Jim Thome and company christened the ballpark in 2004. Ryan Howard helped bring a World Series to Philadelphia in 2008, and Bryce Harper hopes to bring another. While the most passionate MLB fan base watches the Fightin’ Phils, they can also enjoy the best eats of any MLB ballpark.

Nothing can replace the good old American hot dog. Peanuts and crackers might be another tradition, but why limit youself given the incredible list of food options at Citizens Bank Park?

You’ve tried Bull’s BBQ and Chickie’s and Pete’s crab fries for two decades at the home of the Philadelphia Phillies. You’ve probably mixed the classics with newer options like the Schwarburger. Combine it all with brand new options like the bratwurst sandwich or the buffalo chicken hoagies from Greens and Grains.

If you’re feeling up to it, wash it down with one of those crazy beer bats while you’re at it. Do anything that helps you enjoy the crack of the bat and the summer atmosphere.

It’s all part of the Citizens Bank Park experience when the Phillies are back in the conversation as a World Series contender.

Dan Baker rolled out his best Harry Kalas impersonation to introduce former Phillies great Mickey Morandini. The Phillie Phanatic, of course, won’t miss a beat or a good food option at Citizens Bank Park this summer. The classic ballpark atmosphere will send chills down the spines of Phillies fans from Opening Day through Red October.

The summer serenity of the ballpark hits Philadelphia as much as the Jersey Shore or a celebration of America’s birthplace on the 4th of July. Citizens Bank Park is once again the place to be.

Start your day off right by listening to The Andie Summers Show weekday mornings from 5:30am to 10am. They’ll make you feel good.  

Andie Summers 

Andie Summers has been waking up country music fans in Philadelphia and the surrounding counties on 92.5 XTU since 1999. While Andie loves her job, she is most proud of her role as wife to Leonard, mother to Tori and Leonard, and dog-mom to their poodle Bob Ross.

Jeff Kurkjian 

Jeff Kurkjian grew up in Montgomery County, Maryland and now is proud to call Philadelphia, home. He and his wife, Emily, just welcomed their baby girl, McKinley to the world. In his spare time, he loves to binge watch the latest shows and work on his own podcast called “Do What You Love.”

Donnie Black 

Donnie Black is the Producer of The Andie Summers Show. His love for radio started way back when he was 8 years old when he would record his own radio shows on his cassette player in his bedroom. When he is not at work, he is listening to 90s boy bands, watching the same movies over and over.

Shannon Boyle

Shannon is the Assistant Producer of The Andie Summers Show. She started her radio career with 92.5 XTU as an intern for The Andie Summers Show. Shannon is Philly born & raised, when she isn't rooting for the city, you can find her crafting and watching her favorite TV shows. 

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