It was another record crowd again, under clear and sunny skies and temperatures in the low 80's
Our routine for each game has been to arrive at the game when the gates open at 10:30am, walk around, watch batting practice and have a leisurely ballpark breakfast/lunch before the lines get too long. Today was no exception. We watched the Phillies batting practice then had hot dogs and lemonade for an early lunch
It was interesting to see the players up close as well as see team officials, Phillies announcers, former players (John Kruk), and players from the Red Sox who knew each other spend time chatting around the batting cage. We also saw Chase Utley (a Phillies player who is injured and cannot run very well at the moment) take batting practice.
Our seats were in the same area as yesterday where fans from the visiting team are usually found. A lot of people, especially kids, congreate in this area prior to the game, asking for autographs. We have seen most players from all teams being very willing to autograph baseballs, hats, etc. and often throw balls into the stands and give them to kids prior to the game.
Pre-Game
As expected, the game was a pitchers duell; the Phillies didn't get a hit until the 6th inning (Roy Halladay got the first one). The Phillies had a rally later in the game and won 4-1. It was a nice way to end our last spring training game. Tomorrow is a beach day - we return home on Wednesday night
The Game
After resting back at the hotel, we decided to try a Greek restaurant in Clearwater. The food was excellent (we ate way too much) and the restaurant was very nice. All the waiters and waitresses, as well as many of the customers in the restaurant, appeared to be Greek. Apparently there is a substantial Greek community in the Tampa bay area possibly based on the local fishing and similarity to the climate in Greece.
Greek Dinner
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