Phillies Rooting For Home Team Ahead Of Monday's Winter Classic
By Mike DeNardo
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - The Phillies are getting ready to host hockey's outdoor Winter Classic at Citizens Bank Park.
Phillies president David Montgomery says his earliest hockey memories date back to the EHL Ramblers at the old Philadelphia Arena in the 60's. But, he's excited to have the NHL Flyers and Rangers play Monday on the rink now set-up on his infield. "It provides national exposure to our city, which is important. We're proud of our facility. We've had some great moments already here in the eight years that we've been here and this certainly will be added to that list."
Phillies president David Montgomery says the national exposure for Citizens Bank Park at Monday's Winter Classic is priceless, "If the South Philadelphia sports complex had a bucket list of events that they would like to have, this is going to be pretty special to have checked off."
Montgomery says the Flyers-Rangers matchup, and Saturday's alumni game will provide more non-baseball memories for his ballpark.
"Elton John, etc. Billy Joel, and now not only that but guys like Bobby Clarke and Billy Barber are going to have played at Citizens Bank Park."
Phillies Shane Victorino and Kyle Kendrick are expected to attend.
Crews are putting down a white cover around the rink to simulate snow and changing the field wall signage. Montgomery thanked the ballpark sponsors for allowing their ads to be covered up, in favor of the NHL's sponsors. Montgomery says he's concerned, but confident the ballpark grass will bounce back in time for April.
