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  • A ‘super impressive’ first Philly All-Star Game in 30 years was a hit with fans

    A ‘super impressive’ first Philly All-Star Game in 30 years was a hit with fans

    The big winners of All-Star Weekend? Philly fans.

    The All-Star Game itself? Pretty boring, even by its own standards. The American League strung together three runs off Cristopher Sánchez in the first inning, and the only other run of the game was Miguel Vargas’ home run in the eighth.

    The National League got just three hits, none from a Phillies player. But for the fans in the building, the pageantry of the day made it well worth the trip.

    This 17-year-old from Lower Merion was booed during the Home Run Derby. He called it ‘an honor’

    “It was super impressive,” said Stefanie Lollis, a Phillies fan who flew up from Lake Mary, Fla., with her husband for the game. “A lot of the stuff that was around it on the field: the fireworks, the different things, the kids riding out on their bikes.

    “It’s very touching, some of the little moments they had out there in between innings and stuff,” said her husband Chris Lollis. “I figured Philly would do a great job with this. I’m very impressed.”

    Demand was so high for the All-Star Game and the Home Run Derby that prices on secondary markets outpaced the World Cup semifinal between France and Spain on Tuesday. But fans found plenty of ways to get in the All-Star spirit outside of just the two marquee events, at the All-Star Village and the red carpet.

    The All-Star red carpet at Independence Hall was open to the public without tickets. One father and son waiting on the bleachers hoping for a glimpse of Mike Trout flew in from Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., for the weekend.

    The trip was a Christmas gift for Oscar Borello, who attended the All-Star Game with his father in 1989 in Anaheim. While Tuesday’s game didn’t provide a moment quite as iconic as the leadoff 448-foot Bo Jackson home run in that game, he cherished the opportunity to share the experience with his own son.

    “Philadelphia is the best city that we’ve traveled to as tourists,” Borello said. “It’s phenomenal to share this with my son.”

    All-Stars weigh in on Philly fans’ boos during Home Run Derby, receive a (mostly) warm reception on the red carpet

    He was curious to hear the reception to Millville native Trout, returning to the All-Star festivities for the first time since 2023, and starting in the game for the first time since 2019. “I hope it’ll be good. I think Mike Trout being healthy is good for the game of baseball in general” Borello said.

    Trout earned a huge ovation, and so did Delco native Kevin McGonigle, playing in his first career All-Star Game. Justin Verlander, retiring at the end of the year, also got big cheers.

    Aside from the Phillies themselves, though, they were basically the only ones. After earning some scrutiny for heavy boos during the Home Run Derby, Philly fans came right back on Tuesday, booing every player on an NL East team, teams they’ve recently lost to in the playoffs (Houston, Arizona, the Dodgers), the Yankees, Home Run Derby champion Jordan Walker, and also the Brewers’ Jacob Misiorowski. Not even the mascots were safe — Mr. and Mrs. Met might’ve been booed louder than any player.

    A fireworks show goes off before the start of the fifth inning.Yong Kim / Staff Photographer

    But, despite Kyle Schwarber’s loss, that electric Home Run Derby crowd was the highlight of the weekend, even for those who came in neutral.

    “The Home Run Derby was just awesome,” Adam Dashner, who drove in from Pittsburgh with his dad for the weekend. “I think Philadelphia is a good city for that. They played up the heckling for everybody who’s not a Phillie. It was a real hometown crowd. I loved it.”

  • All-Stars weigh in on Philly fans’ boos during Home Run Derby, receive a (mostly) warm reception on the red carpet

    All-Stars weigh in on Philly fans’ boos during Home Run Derby, receive a (mostly) warm reception on the red carpet

    Philly has a reputation for having some of the toughest fans in professional sports — and Monday night was a clear reminder why they’ve earned that reputation. During the Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park, fans booed anyone without Philly affiliation.

    “I thought it was a pretty impressive atmosphere last night,” said Minnesota Twins pitcher Joe Ryan. “Just seeing the Home Run Derby, [Philly fans are] always going to have a good time and they want to win. So, yeah. Respect it.”

    With the Phillies’ Kyle Schwarber and Bryce Harper competing in the Home Run Derby, the Philly crowd provided a home-field advantage early on.

    As Boston Red Sox slugger Willson Contreras made his entrance, the crowd rained down boos at Citizens Bank Park. Contreras quickly embraced the villain role, putting his hand to his ear as fans let him have it.

    “They’re great,” said Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Justin Wrobleski. “They’re really passionate. It’s cool to see fans that really, really care about it and want their guys to win. So yeah, they can get a little overboard from what normal people are, but think it’s really cool and it seems like a fun place to play. And I’ve talked to a couple of the guys about it and they say they love playing here. So, super cool.”

    And nobody was safe — not even the kids in the outfield tasked with tracking balls short of being home runs. After a failed attempt, some took heat from the Philly crowd, while others were cheered for their successful catches.

    “To be honest, I didn’t see [the Home Run Derby,]” said Baltimore Orioles catcher Adley Rutschman. “But they’re passionate, man. I got to give them credit.”

    Overall, the visiting teams have enjoyed the energy behind some of the most passionate fans in sports.

    “[Philly] is great,” said Cleveland Guardians second baseman Travis Bazzana. “The fans are very intense and they love it. It’s been beautiful weather and an awesome environment.”

    Although fans let opposing teams have it on Monday, they were a lot nicer on Tuesday on the red carpet at Independence Hall. While no players were booed, the same can’t be said for a certain mascot from Atlanta.

    Walking across the red carpet, Blooper, the Braves’ mascot, was welcomed with boos from the Philly crowd.

    This doesn’t come as a surprise due to Blooper’s history with Philly fans, dating back to when the Braves and Phillies met in the National League Division Series in 2023.

    After trying to pick a fight with the Phanatic on social media, Philly fans came to their mascot’s defense. Now, three years later, it seems like they’ve still held on to the grudge.

  • Brandon Marsh’s dry hair, Paul Skenes matches Livvy Dunne, and the best looks from the MLB All-Star Game red carpet

    Brandon Marsh’s dry hair, Paul Skenes matches Livvy Dunne, and the best looks from the MLB All-Star Game red carpet

    You can take the baseball players off the field, but that doesn’t mean they’re going to stop sporting coordinated outfits.

    The All-Star red carpet ran through Independence Mall on Tuesday before that night’s All-Star Game at Citizens Bank Park, and the stars were putting their stellar fashion skills on display, as fans saw a lot of coordinated outfits between families.

    Here are some of the best looks from the All-Star red carpet:

    Brandon Marsh

    Sometimes the best outfits are less about the clothes and more about the overall look, and with a head of hair like Brandon Marsh’s, there’s little the clothes have to do.

    Phillies outfielder Brandon Marsh with dry hair? We didn’t know that was possible.Monica Herndon / Staff Photographer

    Marsh wore his signature locks notably dry and tied back with an all-black look from shirt to pants, jacket, and shoes.

    But he wasn’t just bringing the fashion, he also was offering tips on haircare.

    The Phillies outfielder shared his hair routine with MLB Network’s Kait Maniscalco, stating that he doesn’t do much beyond washing it once or twice a week, usually after day games, and then, of course, wetting it every inning.

    “I just water it every inning just like you do the grass or the flowers,” Marsh said.

    Brandon Marsh has ‘good style,’ is ‘one of the best teammates’ and has broken out as an All-Star starter
    Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (left) greets Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber and family on the red carpet.Monica Herndon / Staff Photographer

    Kyle Schwarber

    Kyle Schwarber might hit bombs, but his son apparently slings webs and is the real superhero in the family.

    The Schwarbers wore similar shades of blue as they walked the carpet. Schwarber’s two sons, Kade and Asher, wore matching blue suits and white shirts, while Kade struck a Spiderman pose in the family’s picture. Schwarber’s wife, Paige, who was credited with coordinating the family’s look, wore the same shade in her blue-and-orange patterned dress as she carried their 6-month-old daughter, who wore a cream tulle dress with flowers, down the carpet.

    Schwarbombs, boos and a walkoff: A 3D look at how Jordan Walker ruined a near storybook Home Run Derby for Phillies fans

    Monday night’s Home Run Derby runner-up matched his daughter in a cream suit while coordinating with his wife and sons in a pinstriped button- up in a different shade of blue. The family completed the look with white shoes; the boys and their father in sneakers, and Paige in white heels.

    Freddie Freeman

    The first family of the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Freemans, brought their charm to Philadelphia, also wearing coordinated family outfits but with an earth-tone theme.

    All three sons, Charlie, Brandon, and Max, wore linen button-ups and pants in neutrals matching their father’s beige suit with a white shirt underneath.

    Freeman’s best accessory, however, was newborn daughter London, whom he carried on the red carpet. The almost 3-month-old also matched the family in a beige outfit of her own, complete with a pink headband and bow. His wife, Chelsea, wore a green satin mid-length dress to tie the looks together.

    Paul Skenes and Livvy Dunne

    Paul Skenes and his girlfriend, former LSU gymnast Livvy Dunne, walked the carpet together in coordinated black-and-blue outfits.

    The Pirates ace wore a blue suit with a subtle plaid pattern and black details at the collar. He tied it together with a blue tie, an American flag tie clasp, black sunglasses, and black patterned shoes which Skenes called his “alligator boots.”

    Dunne said once Skenes said he was wearing blue and black, she found a dress to match. The gymnast turned actress and influencer wore a black halter-neck gown with blue waist detail and minimal jewelry to coordinate.

    Kevin McGonigle

    Detroit Tigers rookie Kevin McGonigle made his All-Star red carpet debut in his hometown and walked the carpet with his parents.

    The 21-year-old shortstop wore a green patterned suit with a blue button-up underneath. He completed the look with a matching blue pocket square, brown shoes, and sunglasses.

    The Kevin McGonigle Fan Club has traveled far and wide to see him play. Now, Delco’s All-Star is coming home

    McGonigle didn’t specify whether the green was an ode to his hometown football team or his high school, Monsignor Bonner & Archbishop Prendergast, but he did have his high school’s logo on the inside of his jacket, along with the All-Star Game logo and a Delco patch. He also shared what it means to walk his first red carpet in the city he grew up in.

    “Growing up in Philly, being able to have this experience in my home city, it’s really special, and I’m sure I’m going to see some more people down the red carpet,” McGonigle told MLB Network’s Lauren Shehadi.

    Juan Soto

    Sorry Philly fans, you can dislike him in orange and blue, but Juan Soto’s style out of uniform can’t be denied.

    The Mets superstar wore a golden taupe suit with a white shirt underneath and, naturally, he had the collar popped for some added swagger.

    His look was complete with silver chains, brown shoes, and sunglasses.

    Soto said he was dressed by a Dominican stylist with whom he collaborated to focus on dressing in a color scheme fit for the warm weather.

    Here are some more looks from the red carpet:

  • Flyers right wing Porter Martone ranked No. 3 on Top 100 drafted NHL prospects list, Penn State’s Gavin McKenna tabbed as No. 1

    Flyers right wing Porter Martone ranked No. 3 on Top 100 drafted NHL prospects list, Penn State’s Gavin McKenna tabbed as No. 1

    Weeks have passed since the NHL draft, development camps across the league have wrapped up and there are still a few months to go until preseason hockey is underway.

    But there’s still plenty happening to keep give fans their hockey fill, including Scott Wheeler of The Athletic releasing his list of Top 100 drafted NHL prospects on Tuesday morning.

    The list of 100 prospects is made up of players who fall into two qualifications: skaters under age 23 and/or skaters not yet fully established with their clubs. The latter requirement is left up to Wheeler’s discernment. The players are then ranked from 1 to 100, and sorted into six tiers.

    What’s next for the Flyers after missing out on Leo Carlsson?

    The ranking includes 24 players from this year’s draft and 25 from last year’s, with the other 51 ranging from the 2022 to 2024 drafts.

    But despite the 38 picks the Flyers had across those five drafts, Philly had just two players make this list with Porter Martone coming in third on this list as a top-tier prospect and David Jiříček just inching his way onto the list at 97 as a sixth-tier prospect.

    Alex Bump, Jett Luchanko, Jack Nesbitt, and Oliver Bonk were each part of the final cuts, and were considered by Wheeler to be tier six prospects.

    Porter Martone was ranked No. 3 on the Athletic’s drafted prospects list, and nearly made No. 2. Isaiah Vazquez / For The Inquirer

    Martone played just 19 games with the Flyers last season, nine in the regular season and 10 in the playoffs, making the 19-year-old eligible for the list on both qualifications. During the regular season, he had 10 points in his nine games, four goals and six assists, and his 14 shots on goal were the most by a rookie in his first two games in the league.

    During the playoffs he became the first teenager in league history to score a game-winning goal in each of his first two career playoff games. He added three assists to those two goals to finish with five points in the playoffs.

    Noel Acciari is going from a hated Penguin to a (hopefully?) beloved Flyer. He said he’s excited to join a team on the rise.

    With just the Nos. 1 and 2 overall picks in the 2026 draft, Penn State product Gavin McKenna (Toronto Maple Leafs) and Ivar Stenberg (San Jose Sharks) ranking ahead of him, the 6-foot-3 right winger is described by Wheeler as a “modern powered forward who blends size with skill, poise, physicality and scoring ability.” Wheeler says he debated ranking him No. 2.

    Wheeler continued on to mention Martone’s build, battle for the puck and puck handling skills, and willingness to drop the gloves, among other attributes, but also noted that there are instances where he falls to poor play selection, turnovers, bad penalties, and other issues. His biggest note was about Martone’s skating which he said “can kick out from the knees” and will need to improve so the rest of his game can improve, but again noted the teenager’s many attributes.

    “He’s going to score goals, make plays and be able to impose himself in the NHL when he really comes into his own,” Wheeler said. “He has the talent to become a high-end point-producing winger. The skill and hockey sense are real, and the consistency of his effort level and toughness have developed over time, too. He’s one of the top forward prospects in the game.”

    Michael Misa of the Sharks finished out the top four, making Misa the second San Jose player in the top tier and one of six Sharks to make the list.

    The Detroit Red Wings and the Vancouver Canucks also had six prospects each. The Blackhawks had the most appearances in the top 100 with eight prospects, followed by the Calgary Flames and the Nashville Predators who had seven each.

    David Jiříček played in one NHL game in 2026-27 and projects as a key part of the Flyers’ future. Elizabeth Robertson / Staff Photographer

    Helping close out the list was Jiříček who was drafted sixth overall by the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2022. One of 30 defensemen in the ranking, the 22-year-old was acquired by the Flyers at this season’s trade deadline in exchange for Bobby Brink.

    The 6-4 blueliner played one game with the Flyers in the last game of the regular season and was later called back up for the playoffs after the Phantoms season ended, but did not see ice time.

    Wheeler said Jiříček has a number of desirable attributes including his point shot, commanding presence, and strong frame, but said he is stilted in his backwards skating and pivots, which causes him to struggle to keep up in a fast-paced game.

    Jiříček’s offensive contributions, such as being a puck transporter and a puck handler or distributor, were also commended by Wheeler, but he noted that while Jiříček has tools one would look for in a top defenseman, he also lacks some of the most important tools including play reading ability.

    “Because his decision-making and footwork don’t seem to be improving enough, he no longer projects as a top-four D and now looks more like a potential third-pairing type with some offense,” Wheeler said.

    Flyers left wing Alex Bump was among the players who just missed the cut for the top 100. Yong Kim / Staff Photographer

    As for the rest of the Metropolitan Division, the New York Islanders had five prospects make the list, the most out of any team in the division, followed by the Washington Capitals with four.

    Cross-state rivals, the Pittsburgh Penguins, had three players make the list with Harrison Brunicke (74) and Rutger McGroarty (84) coming in the fifth tier while Will Horcoff (92) came in tier six.

    The New York Rangers also had three with Alberts Šmits (9) and Gabe Perreault (19) in the second tier and Liam Greentree (91) in the sixth.

    The Blue Jackets, Carolina Hurricanes, and New Jersey Devils also had two prospects each on the list.

  • A 12-year-old Philly girl interviewed baseball’s best players at the All-Star Game: ‘It was so chaotic’

    A 12-year-old Philly girl interviewed baseball’s best players at the All-Star Game: ‘It was so chaotic’

    In the center of Ashburn Alley at Citizens Bank Park, Yoshinobu Yamamoto was surrounded by dozens of media members standing shoulder-to-shoulder, pushing their way through the crowd with mics in hand to ask the Dodgers pitcher a question.

    And standing shoulder height to the other media members, getting pushed around in the middle of it all, was 12-year-old Philadelphia native Isabella Gonzalez.

    “So, I’m actually claustrophobic, I hate tight spaces,” Gonzalez said. “But when I was over there, because of how wild it was, I started to get smushed in. Everyone slowly started closing in.

    “So, I felt someone’s shoulder go on my cheek. I didn’t want to be rude and fully shove them. Because like everyone was ahead of me, so I’m like rushing over. It was so chaotic. But I think it was easy to deal with because I can just be like, ‘Oh, excuse me.’ Or give them a light [shove].”

    Despite her fear of tight spaces, she found her way to the front of the crowd, took a deep breath, and let her voice be heard.

    Chase Utley serves tomato pie at Sarcone’s, talks playing for Don Mattingly, and what it’s like to be an All-Star

    My name is Bella. Congratulations on making it to All-Stars. I’m from Philly, but my family background is from Costa Rica and Puerto Rico. I have a question for you.

    After getting out of the crowd, she let out a sigh of relief and was onto her next assignment: an interview with Phillies pitcher Jesús Luzardo — and this interaction would hold a special place in Gonzalez’s heart.

    Earlier this year, Luzardo filmed a video for Gonzalez informing her that she was selected to serve as a Players Exchange Student Correspondent, where she would be interviewing MLB players during All-Star media day. Since then, he’s been a favorite for the Phillies fan.

    Philadelphia student Isabella Gonzalez, 12, served as a Players Exchange Student Correspondent, interviewing MLB players during All-Star media day on Monday.Ariel Simpson

    “My favorite [interview] was Jesús Luzardo,” Gonzalez said. “Obviously, he made a video for me. So, knowing that he was the player who made me a video and that the whole class had to watch me see that video, it made me happy because I feel like I could make a few connections toward him. My dad always told me about him … He was just telling me that he’s a really good guy and be proud that’s the man who made you a video.”

    Gonzalez, a seventh-grader at Decatur Elementary School in Northeast Philly, has been part of the MLB’s Players Exchange program for a year. The program, designed for 11- to 14-year-old students, teaches collaboration, communication, and global connection through insight from MLB players.

    Ahead of media day, Gonzalez was able to prep with her own media tour — making an appearance on PHL17.

    Now, after conducting a number of her own interviews, pushing through crowds of reporters, and overcoming a fear of tight spaces, the 12-year-old is already thinking about a career in reporting.

    Mike Trout said he loves Philly during Monday’s All-Star festivities. But he seems no closer to playing here.

    “Everyone’s like, ‘You speak so fluently, you sound so good,’” Gonzalez said. “I’m like, maybe that’s going to be my future. One of my aunts messaged my mom and was like, ‘We’re going to have a reporter in our family.’ I was on the news on Friday and my mom was like, ‘I’m surprised how comfortable she was.’ How I got comfortable was I was just pacing around the green room.”

    And after a day full of interviews in the heat, Gonzalez tied her hair up, tossed on her Phillies hat, grabbed her claw clip and was ready to enjoy the rest of the All-Star Weekend experience — attending the Home Run Derby and the All-Star Game.

    “What I found the most best about the whole thing was being able to learn more about the players and being able to ask any questions,” Gonzalez said. “I also like how they didn’t just give a tiny answer. They told you the reason behind the answer.”

  • The Stoop Pigeon teams up with Hoopbus, Philadelphia Sisters, and USTA Middle States, host Wimbledon women’s final and WNBA watch party

    The Stoop Pigeon teams up with Hoopbus, Philadelphia Sisters, and USTA Middle States, host Wimbledon women’s final and WNBA watch party

    Philadelphia is set for a huge summer of women’s sports. The Stoop Pigeon wants to be at the center of it.

    The Stoop Pigeon hosted a double-watch party for the Wimbledon women’s final and Saturday’s WNBA slate at Dock Street Brewing in South Philly. The organization partnered with United States Tennis Association Middle States and the Philadelphia Sisters, to help promote August’s Ennoble Care Philly Open on the University Pennsylvania’s campus, and Hoopbus, a charitable organization dedicated to the transformative power of basketball. Attendees could play red ball tennis, win tennis racket prize packs, and shoot hoops outside on the bus.

    After starting as a monthly WNBA watch party group, The Stoop Pigeon has grown into one of the largest dedicated women’s sports fan communities in the city. Jen Leary, founder of The Stoop Pigeon, now regularly hears from local and national organizations looking to activate the women’s sports communities about partnerships.

    The Stoop Pigeon, a women’s sports hub and cafe, has a new location and plans to open in June

    “Anytime we hold a certain event, like if it’s tennis, we reach out to all the tennis organizations we can find on the internet,” Leary said. “Similarly, with the WNBA game, Hoopbus reached out to us because they were going to be on this national tour, and they were going to be in Philly. Having them stop here, it’s a win-win. It gives something fun for the community, but also helps us continue again to build momentum for what we’re building.”

    Leary emphasized that while The Stoop Pigeon might be one of the most vocal groups, promoting women’s sports in the city is a “team effort,” and a big part of that is partnering with other local organizations.

    Attendees play basketball courtesy of Hoopbus outside Dock Street Brewery South during Saturday’s watch party.Erin Blewett / For The Inquirer

    “The one thing that women’s sports around the world does is we lift each other up and we work together. Progress in numbers,” she added.

    The Stoop Pigeon is aiming to open a women’s sports hub on Broad Street by midfall, Leary said. But in a year with several high-profile women’s sports events, Leary is committed to keeping the momentum growing in the city and building the community as they prepare the space.

    Unrivaled brought the hoops, but Philly brought the energy. With WNBA on the way, ‘this is just the beginning.’

    After the massive success of Unrivaled in January, Philly will host professional women’s lacrosse, tennis, and squash over the next five months. Leary believes that the efforts The Stoop Pigeon and other organizations have put into developing a women’s sports community in the city are part of the reason Philly is landing more events, but landing the event is half the battle.

    “The goal is just to get people there, to show the WTA and all the other women’s sports leagues in the country that Philly is a women’s sports town, and if you come to Philly, we will pack the stadiums like we did with Unrivaled,” Leary said. “Even if you don’t know tennis or even if you don’t know lacrosse, we want you there.”

    An attendee holds up a T-shirt reading “Philly Is a Women’s Sports Town” during a watch party Saturday at Dock Street Brewery co-hosted by Hoopbus and The Stoop Pigeon.Erin Blewett / For The Inquirer
  • Jimmy Rollins’ All-Star Weekend festivities include granting Make-A-Wish dreams and Xfinity fan giveaways

    Jimmy Rollins’ All-Star Weekend festivities include granting Make-A-Wish dreams and Xfinity fan giveaways

    Prior to his appearance in MLB’s All-Star Weekend 3-on-3 baseball event, Jimmy Rollins was giving back to the community.

    The former Phillies World Series champion made his way to the Mitchell & Ness flagship store on Saturday morning to help Make-A-Wish dreams come true. Afterward, the three-time All-Star went to Dilworth Park for an All-Star rollout with Xfinity.

    “I know a lot of us are doing things,” Rollins said. “Shane [Victorino] is going to be doing things. Chase [Utley] is doing a lot. … Ryan [Howard]. We’re the last team to win a championship for baseball here. So, it’s only right that we’re here representing the city the way we are.”

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    Rollins and Fanatics grant wishes

    Fanatics hosted a private shopping experience for five Make-A-Wish kids at the new Mitchell & Ness flagship. Their families will also attend All-Star Weekend festivities.

    Each child was given a $250 gift card and were surprised with a special appearance from Rollins, who was in charge of helping the children shop. For 11-year-old Braxton Ham, he had his eyes set on a classic Rollins Phillies jersey.

    Fanatics hosted a private shopping experience at the new Mitchell and Ness flagship for five Make-A-Wish kids and their families ahead of attending their All-Star Weekend festivities.Fanatics

    When Rollins noticed, he decided to gift Ham a separate item.

    “I got Braxton over there the store exclusive All-Star basketball warmup for baseball,” Rollins said. “You can only get it at this store. He’s the only one that went for it. It’s fire, he’s wearing it right now. He got the green Phillie Phanatic hat on. And that was courtesy of me. He spent his $250 on my jersey and I couldn’t just let him walk away with one thing.

    “So, I was like lets go through, lets get something. He was looking at me [with his] eyes big. I was like you bought my jersey, let me return the favor. He’s over there fitted. He’s going to look clean at the Home Run Derby.”

    Throughout the hourlong shopping spree, Rollins searched the racks and got to know the kids a little more. The three-time All-Star even tried to make a few important Facetime calls.

    “These events are very special,” Rollins said. “We have a chance to make an impact. … I was speaking to [one of the kids], a big Red Sox fan. Of course, I called David [Ortiz], no response. I called Pedro [Martinez], no response. But, Tuesday after the All-Star game, I told him I would be in the studio with Pedro and we’re going to Facetime him. So, little stuff that I can add on top of this experience.”

    The Fanatics Foundation serves as the official sports partner of Make-A-Wish, dating back to Oct. 2023.

    “In the last three years we have already granted 1,000 sports related wishes,” said Grace Farraj, the executive director of Fanatics Foundation. “And again today, we’ll have the honor to grant five more wishes. Our mission is to engage our network of athletes and teams and leagues to bring to bear some amazing experiences in our local communities around the globe.”

    Rollins and Xfinity’s All-Star rollout

    Nearly an hour later, Rollins greeted a number of fans at Dilworth Park. The former NL MVP climbed inside a purple Xfinity All-Star rollout truck, handing out autographs and items like iPads, baseball gloves, socks, and hats. He posed with fans in front of a purple Xfinity lowrider afterwards.

    “It’s a good event for the city,” Rollins said. “Xfinity is putting on and I’m here just to bring some smiles. I’m handing out some autographs, I’m here just to put on for the city to be honest.

    Zack Wheeler and Philly fans are bothered by his All-Star snub: ‘People will regret not picking him’

    “I’ve been here doing a lot of things. This is another activation. So, everything I got to do to bring joy to the city. It’s been 30 years since the All-Star Game was here last. I was drafted 30 years ago by this team and it’s been a fun ride growing up in this city.”

    Xfinity’s All-Star rollout truck and lowrider will continue to tour the city, making stops at FIFA Fan Fest, Spruce Street Harbor, and the Comcast Plaza. Sunday, the truck will return to Dilworth Park with an appearance from John Kruk taking place between 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

  • Zack Wheeler and Philly fans are bothered by his All-Star snub: ‘People will regret not picking him’

    Zack Wheeler and Philly fans are bothered by his All-Star snub: ‘People will regret not picking him’

    All-Star Weekend has arrived in Philadelphia and there has been nothing but love shown to the city — from neighborhood representation at MLB’s All-Star Village to new murals serving as a “love letter to Philadelphia.” The vibes have been high as the city celebrates its first All-Star Weekend in 30 years.

    “It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to have the All-Star game here,” said 21-year-old Eddie Mazurkiewicz. “There’s been a lot of excitement for a while now and I feel like people are ready for it.”

    Numerous events will take place over the next four days in honor of the league’s All-Stars. And through all the festivities, there’s just one thing missing — or we should say, one person missing — Phillies pitcher Zack Wheeler.

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    The right-hander has been left off the National League roster, which features six Phillies players: Brandon Marsh, Kyle Schwarber, Bryce Harper, Christopher Sánchez, and Jesús Luzardo. The snub left many voicing their frustration, including World Series champion Jimmy Rollins.

    “I 100 percent believe he was snubbed from being an All-Star,” Rollins said. “We’ve seen the guys they want to make stars come up and have five starts and become an All-Star because they have a name for themselves. Zack Wheeler has been doing it for a while and part of being an All-Star is having a reputation of being a great starter, that he is. He’s been Cy Young second place for a number of years. The guy over in Pittsburgh [Paul Skenes] is pretty good so we understand that.

    “But for him to not be in the All-Stars, especially in this city, coming back with nine wins in the first half, that’s a pretty tough pill to swallow. And if I’m him I would be [ticked]. But I would want to make sure if I’m him, I’m taking it out on everyone who had a chance to vote me in. And we open against the Dodgers when we start the second half. So, that’s all I’m saying. I’m going to leave it at that.”

    In Wheeler’s first 14 starts of the season since returning from thoracic outlet syndrome, he posted a 2.28 ERA.

    Wheeler is currently scheduled to start on Sunday against the Detroit Tigers, making him ineligible to pitch for the midsummer classic two days later.

    Various MLB players are displayed at the All-Star Village at the Pennsylvania Convention Center on Saturday, and Zack Wheeler’s face is not among them.Tyger Williams / Staff Photographer

    “Most over-hated player in baseball,” said 17-year-old Caleb Garbcht. “He should’ve been in over Luzardo. Should have a Cy Young to his name. Should be in the All-Star Game. I think this motivates him. I think we’re going to see him come back in the playoffs, throwing 97, 98. Honestly, he’s going to be more motivated than ever.”

    Haley Garbcht, 22, Caleb’s sibling, added: “Yeah, Philly loves an underdog. So, Wheeler will just keep getting better and finally get the recognition he deserves.”

    The Griffeys hope their legacy can be used as a force to attract interest in Black American players

    Following the Phillies’ 4-1 win over the Cincinnati Reds on Tuesday, which saw Wheeler tie a career-high with 14 strikeouts across seven innings, the 36 year old revealed he was bothered by the snub.

    “I feel like that’s kind of a reminder for whoever needs to be reminded,” Wheeler said after his stellar performance.

    The quote has now led to a new Garrett Stubbs T-shirt, featuring the outline of a rooster with Wheeler’s No. 45 inscribed on it, which pays homage to Wheeler’s walkout song “Rooster” by Alice in Chains.

    “Stubbs always brings the energy and does everything he can to get the guys ramped up,” said 18-year-old Brian Donahue. “[Wheeler] will just prove that he deserved it during the season and in the playoffs, and people will regret not picking him.”

  • Brandon Marsh stars in the commercial for Victus’ new cheesesteak-themed bat. It was filmed at Angelo’s in just one take.

    Brandon Marsh stars in the commercial for Victus’ new cheesesteak-themed bat. It was filmed at Angelo’s in just one take.

    King of Prussia-based baseball bat manufacturer Victus Sports was looking for a reason to do an advertisement with its client, Brandon Marsh. The Phillies outfielder’s stellar season — and first All-Star Game nod — gave Victus the perfect excuse.

    “He was just a perfect fit,” Victus marketing director Doug Trimble said. “Just personality-wise, and obviously being a Philly guy made the most sense. The stars just aligned that he ended up being one of the best hitters in baseball this year.”

    On Wednesday, Victus posted a teaser for the company’s new Philly Cheesesteak-inspired bat on X. The video shows Marsh, decked out in his full Phillies uniform, order a “Victus with onions” at Angelo’s Pizzeria. Marsh then walks out of the South Philly staple to unwrap an abnormally long sandwich. Grinning, the “wet bandit” reveals a Victus bat hidden under the parchment paper.

    In the background, customers look on in awe at Marsh, who looks like he walked straight out of the outfield.

    Those reactions were real. Between Marsh’s stringent schedule with the Phillies and Angelo’s limited hours, Victus decided it would be easiest to shoot the commercial quickly while the restaurant was open. The ad, along with a few shorter spots posted to social media, were completed in one-take.

    “It was a cool moment,” Trimble said. “[Marsh] thought it was cool. He had a blast the whole day. I was kind of just running through concepts with him, and he was down for all of it.”

    Phillies outfielder Brandon Marsh (right) carries Victus’ new cheesesteak-themed bat over his shoulder while a cook whips up the real thing on the griddle at Angelo’s.Courtesy of Victus Sports

    Why Angelo’s? Trimble will take the credit for picking the restaurant over the likes of a more nationally recognizable cheesesteak shop — like Pat’s or Geno’s.

    For one, Angelo’s steak on a seeded roll is his personal favorite. More important though, Trimble felt partnering with the pizzeria would show Victus is a brand that is true to the area. Philadelphians, as he pointed out, are usually more drawn to a place like Angelo’s than more traditional spots.

    “It’s just letting people know that we’re local to Philly,” Trimble said. “This is our hometown All-Star Game. Doing the whole collection with cheesesteaks and Marsh and the Phillies is just a part of that storytelling we’re trying to do.”

    Victus’ new cheesesteak-themed bat sits next to the real thing at Angelo’s in South Philly.Courtesy of Victus Sports

    When designing the bats themselves, there were also conversations around what type of steak they should resemble.

    Some wanted “whiz” on the bat while others wanted the cheese to resemble cooper sharp. Ultimately, the team decided to feature a more generic cheesesteak on the bat with “Philly” written on it with cheese.

    The bats, which were officially released on Friday, are currently for sale on Victus Sports’ website.

  • Jaylen Brown boxes strangers in Morocco and gets help pitching LeBron James while at the World Cup

    Jaylen Brown boxes strangers in Morocco and gets help pitching LeBron James while at the World Cup

    It’s been a busy summer for new Sixer Jaylen Brown — and not just because he was part of one of the NBA offseason’s biggest moves.

    Brown also boxed on the streets of Morocco and attended the World Cup in Foxborough, Mass., near Boston, where he enlisted the help of YouTube star IShowSpeed to recruit free agent superstar LeBron James to Philly.

    Earlier this summer, Brown traveled to Morocco with former Celtics teammate Tacko Fall and on Thursday posted a video on YouTube documenting their time experiencing the nation’s food, animals, and culture. Brown held a snake around his neck and a monkey on his shoulder, played drums with a group of men, and handed out free smoothies.

    However, the most viral moment came when Brown took part in a friendly boxing session. A crowd quickly formed as Brown squared off in the street with a local, and cheers erupted as the NBA star showed off his skills.

    It’s unclear whether the impromptu boxing match came before or after Brown was traded to the Sixers on July 1, but it appears Brown was in Morocco for the recent PLYRS UNTD Africa Experience.

    During a livestream from inside the Boston Stadium (aka Gillette Stadium) during Morocco’s FIFA World Cup quarterfinal vs. France, Brown enlisted the help of internet personality IShowSpeed, an Ohio native whose real name is Darren Jason Watkins Jr., to send a message to James.

    “You gotta tell LeBron he’s gotta pull up, man. Pull up to Philly,” Brown said in the livestream.

    Watkins happily looked into the camera and told James, who reportedly has the Sixers, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Miami Heat among his top three teams, to join Brown and “PG13” in Philly. The only problem: Paul George isn’t on the team anymore.

    Brown corrected him that George had been traded to the Celtics in the deal that sent Brown to the Sixers. The exchange quickly spread on social media with fans poking fun at the streamer for not realizing George had been traded.

    Brown also seemed frustrated about the trade during the livestream.

    “It’s a crazy business, bro,” he said. “Don’t become a basketball player. There’s no loyalty, there’s no love. … They packed me up, sayonara chat, I’m out of here.”

    Brown hasn’t played a game for Philadelphia yet, but he’s certainly giving fans plenty to talk about.