Countdown to the 2026 Baseball Season Begins!

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — The anticipation for the 2026 baseball season has officially started!

The Phillies are preparing to leave the snowy confines of South Philadelphia on Tuesday for their spring training in Clearwater, Florida.

Truck Day Tradition

Truck Day is a cherished yearly event at Citizens Bank Park, where Phillies staff and Citizens Ballpark Bankers pack items into three 28-foot trailers.

Loading Equipment

The team will invest several hours loading essential equipment, which includes 2,400 baseballs, 1,200 bats, 140 helmets, along with 300 batting gloves, and numerous garments such as shirts, jackets, socks, and belts.

Excitement Builds

“When the truck is loaded, we hope warm weather follows, and in about eight weeks, baseball season will commence,” stated Frankie Bowens, ballpark operations manager.

Having participated in Truck Day for 25 years, Bowens highlighted the enthusiasm of newcomers as well.
Carol Mason, a Citizen Ballpark Banker, shared her excitement: “This is my first Truck Day, and I’m thrilled to be here with my son.”

Ready for the Journey

The team won’t forget to bring along the Phillie Phanatic and his famous hot dog launcher. “Seeing that hot dog launcher go onto the truck signals it’s time to go,” mentioned Tim Schmidt, a Phillies clubhouse attendant.

This year is particularly special for Schmidt, who is excited to bring his wife and newborn during the trip. The truck will cover over 1,000 miles through eight states before arriving in Florida on Sunday for unloading.

This year commemorates the team’s 80th spring training in Clearwater. Their spring training begins on February 11, with the first games on February 21. The home opener at Citizens Bank Park is set for March 26 against the Texas Rangers.