They just unfurled a big U.S. flag that covers the entire expanse of the outfield here at the ballpark. The Philadelphia Boys' Choir is singing patriotic songs at an octave that would require a fellow to cycle off the Winstrol.
I suppose there is nothing better that signifies the fight for American Independence better than some pre-pubescent boys singing before a ballgame.
Anyway, we're in the ballpark and we made it with little difficulty. The traffic from the Turnpike to the Schuylkill wasn't so bad... it wasn't good, but it wasn't anything to whine about.
Meanwhile, the press box isn't obnoxiously crowded, which is nice. There's plenty of space to stretch out and get some work done, which is also nice.
The player introductions have begun and a few writer types have guessed that Adam Eaton and Wes Helms will hear boos. Why are they always so negative?
So far there have been big cheers for Cole Hamels, Chris Coste and Jamie Moyer. Eaton was booed, but he doffed his cap and enjoyed it.
Otherwise, all of the starters heard big cheers, including manager Charlie Manuel, which is well deserved at this point.