PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — The Phillies could also be out of city this weekend, however the bats will not be taking a break round right here.
The Savannah Bananas and Texas Tailgaters are taking up Residents Financial institution Park in two sold-out video games Saturday and Sunday.
For one participant on the crew, it is a homecoming.
“It will be surreal,” mentioned Joe Sperone.
Since he was 6 years outdated, Sperone, from Broomall, had a love for baseball. His expertise earned him a spot on the West Chester College crew and Staten Island Ferry Hawks. He give up his workplace job final yr to pursue his ardour.
“Ever since I used to be younger, it was at all times a dream to play in sold-out MLB stadiums, particularly Residents Financial institution Park,” mentioned Sperone.
Now, at 23 years outdated, that dream will come true this weekend.
Sperone will take the mound at Residents Financial institution Park because the pitcher of the Texas Tailgaters.
Banana Ball is a mix of baseball and dancing to placed on what they name the “biggest present in sports activities.”
However that is additionally a proud second for Sperone’s dad and mom, particularly his father, who was recognized with Stage 4 most cancers final yr. As a substitute of sitting within the stands to cheer for the Phillies, now they’re going to be rooting for his or her son.
An estimated 45,000 followers can be in attendance, together with 10 households from Challenger Baseball of Cherry Hill, which brings the baseball expertise to kids with particular wants.
“Go, Savannah Bananas,” yelled 8-year-old Clark.
They have been shocked with tickets from Dunkin’ and the crew on Friday night.
“It is among the finest elements about this job is giving again to the group, reaching out to followers, connecting with followers,” mentioned Sperone, who hopes it is an expertise followers will always remember.
Each nights are bought out, however there are a restricted variety of tickets obtainable on the secondary market.
If you cannot make it, you’ll be able to nonetheless watch all of the enjoyable on Saturday at 7 p.m. on ESPN, ESPN+ and Disney+.
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