Pitchers And Catchers In Clearwater, Phans Go Phanatical Over Phils Merchandise
By Mike DeNardo
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Phillies pitchers and catchers have reported to Clearwater for spring training. And many of their fans are reporting to the ballpark souvenir store, to outfit themselves for the season.
What self-respecting Phillies fan would not want to be seen with a plush green Phillie Phanatic face over their head, with green furry dangles hanging down over their ears? Majestic Clubhouse store manager Francis Winkey expects the Phanatic hats will fly off the shelves -- once they're in stock around Opening Day.
"Animal plush dangle hats are really the rage right now, evidently. And we don't have a bear or a bull or an animal that's easy - a panda bear - so we've got the Phanatic coming in. It's really going to be a cool piece for us, no doubt."
Many of the new ballpark novelties this year are about food. "Last year we came out with the Phillies toaster, so you can toast a 'P' right in your bread. So, we still have that. But, the panini press -- now you can make your grilled cheese, make your pancakes with the Phillies 'P,' make your Cuban sandwich -- whatever you want. All this stuff to Phillie your food."
The store is also expecting to stock pink Phillies yoga mats and even Phillies disposable diapers. Hey, even the youngest fans need to represent.
