Florida Spring Training Trip - Day 9

The game today was against the Atlanta Braves, the Phillies' big rival in the National League's Eastern Division.  Since yesterday's game was a night game and most of the regular Phillies players played, almost all of them were given this day off.  Atlanta brought most of their regular players to the game so everyone expected Atlanta to win. Surprisingly, several non-roster pitchers trying to make the team held the Braves hitters to one run through 8 innings.  Alas, in the 9th inning the Braves tied the game on an error.  After the Phillies were unable to score in the bottom of the 9th inning, the game ended in a tie.  In spring training, extra innings are seldom played and games are usually called after 9 innings if tied, unless each team agrees to keep playing.

Before the game today there was a very nice tribute to Jim Fregosi, a former manager of the Phillies in 1992-93 who died last month.  He was also a long time scout and special assistant to the Atlanta Braves President. Since the Braves were playing here today, the Phillies organized a tribute to him.  His family, including children and grandchildren were in attendance along with many friends, former teammates and associates.  He spent over 50 years in professional baseball in many capacities including player, coach, manager, and scout.  He was a true 'lifer" in  baseball and will be missed.  The link below describes more about him and the ceremony today.

The weather today started out partly sunny, slightly humid, 79 degrees and a 30% chance of showers.  As the day progressed, it got more cloudy and the temperature dropped 10 degrees.  There is a front coming through tomorrow and it looks like a 70% chance of rain and thunderstorms.  The Yankees will be here tomorrow, so a big crowd is expected.  So, we'll see how the weather impacts the game.

Dinner tonight was at Hulk Hogan's again.  The food was good and the restaurant not too crowded tonight. 

Here are a few pictures from the game and the Fregosi tribute.

Day 9 Pictures

Jim Fregosi Tribute Article