The Philadelphia Phillies will take on the New York Mets at Citi Field for Game 3 of the National League Division Series On Tuesday, fans across the city, like Mike Ogborn, were buzzing with excitement.
“I woke up this morning and the city is in a good mood. And I’m thinking, ‘Watch out, Mets!’ said Ogborn.
Another fan, Ryan Newman, flew in from Detroit to attend the first two games of the division series. Although he didn’t grow up in Philadelphia, he says his parents are from the area. He’s been a Phillies fan for as long as he can remember, and he loved seeing Sunday’s win in person.
“It’s about time…about time,” Newman said.
At Shibe Vintage Sports, co-owner Johnny “Goodtimes” says sales are increasing as fans prepare for the next game.
“Knowing that when that person is wearing the gear, he or she is on your side — especially now. Let’s not kid ourselves, it’s New York, so it matters that much more,” Goodtimes said.
Joe DiBiaggio, owner of the Phans of Philly tour group, is one of those diehard fans who couldn’t contain his excitement.
“I started screaming, and I actually got yelled at for waking my baby,” DiBiaggio said.
DiBiaggio’s passion for the team goes beyond cheering at home. He organizes a bus trip to Citi Field with 50 fans ready to make some noise and support the Phillies along the way.
“We had almost a thousand fans Londonso never underestimate the Philly fan,” he said.
To further fuel the excitement, Phillies Director of Fun and Games John Brazer gave DiBiaggio 50 rally towels to hand out to fans who made the trip. Brazer says the excitement for Tuesday’s game is spreading far beyond the stadium.
“I get text messages from rock stars, former Eagles, current Eagles, former Flyers, from Jay Wright, everyone,” Brazer said. “I just think everyone is involved in Red October.”
The Phans of Philly bus will leave Citizens Bank Park at 12:30 PM on Tuesday, giving fans a few hours to spend at Citi Field before the 5:08 PM game.
