Philadelphia Phillies is a member of National League’s Eastern Division. This Pennsylvania based Major League franchise was established in 1883.

History of Philadelphia Phillies

Philadelphia Phillies is the only name in the history of professional baseball, which continues to remain unchanged since its origin. The name was changed temporarily during 1943-44 to Philadelphia Blue Jays as they wear predominately blue uniforms at that time. After finishing at the bottom for consecutive 2 years, the team again returned to their red look in the year 1945 and got its old name back. 

May 1, 1883 was the day when Philadelphia Phillies played their first match. The Phillies made a poor record of 17-98 in their introductory season. Their worst form continued till the mid of 1900s except for a single Pennant and post-season victory in 1915. Years from 1919-1947 saw the poorest performance of Phillies, as they were dragged to last or second last position 24 times. Out of those 29 occasions they ended at the last slot 17 times.  At last, in 1950 they have won the Pennant and qualified for the World Series. Though, they continued to play well but couldn’t win any title from 1950 to 1976. 

The glorious era of the Phillies could be counted from 1976 to 1983, as they conquered their first Division title in 1976. The team got six Division titles between 1976 and 1983, out of which three were won successively from 1976 to 1978. The Phillies, beating the Kansas City Royals, also clinched their sole World Championship in 1980. In 1983, they got the Pennant title. 

After 1983, the Phillies have to wait till 1993 to win any more championships. It was only in 1993 that Phillies agin got a Pennant & Division Title. In between 1994 and 2000, the Phillies were unable to post a winning season. Despite high expectations, the Philadelphia Phillies weren’t able to make it above 2^nd slot in between 2001 and 2003. 

Some of the Hall of Famers of Philadelphia Phillies are Richie Ashburn, Grover Cleveland Alexander, Chuck Klein, Ferguson Jenkins, Sam Thompson and Mike Schmidt. The retired numbers of Philadelphia Phillies are Jim Bunning #14, Richie Ashburn #1, Mike Schmidt #20, Steve Carlton #32, Robin Roberts #36 and Richie Ashburn #1. 

Stadium History of Philadelphia Phillies

Philadelphia Phillies stayed at Recreational Park, which was their first ballpark, from 1883 to 1886. The Phillies shifted to the Huntington Street Grounds in 1887 where they stayed till 1894. Baker Bowl was their home from 1895 to 1938. Philadelphia Park was another name for Baker Bowl during 1895-1912. After 1938, they move to Connie Mack Stadium for 33 years. The Connie Mack Stadium was also called Shibe Park between 1938 and 1953. Philadelphia Phillies then shifted to the Veteran Stadium and was there till 2003. 

Citizen Bank Park of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is the current ballpark for the Phillies. They came to this stadium in the year 2004. It was April 9, 2004 when the Citizen Bank Park was inaugurated whereas the opening match was held on April 12, 2004. With the capacity of holding approximately 43,000 fans the stadium offers the best facilities including restaurant and team store.