Phils unveil new ballpark attractions for 2022

April 4th, 2022

PHILADELPHIA -- Not to be outdone by the significant on-field additions to the roster this offseason, on Monday the Phillies unveiled some of the new-and-improved ballpark experiences awaiting fans at Citizens Bank Park in 2022.

Ranging from new restaurants that will hit home for local fans to giveaways celebrating Bryce Harper's MVP season, there is plenty of incentive for fans to get out to the ballpark this season.

The additions include two new restaurants: Manco & Manco Pizza and Colbie’s Southern Kissed Chicken. The Phillies will also have new partner KLYR Rum available throughout the ballpark, as well as a number of new menu items available at existing concessions around the stadium.

"We couldn't be more excited," said Kevin Tedesco, general manager of Aramark at Citizens Bank Park. "All these brands resonate with the fans of Philadelphia, but [Manco & Manco] touches your soul. A little different than some of the brands we've had here. I'm excited."

The legendary Ocean City, N.J., pizza shop will be open on Ashburn Alley come Opening Day -- but the food won't be the only thing worth checking out at the ballpark this weekend.

The Phillies' promotional schedule kicks off Friday, when all fans will receive a fleece headband. Then, a tradition returns when the players make their way from Ashburn Alley onto the field. On Saturday, the club -- with the help of Mike Schmidt -- will honor Harper’s 2021 MVP season on the field, while all fans 15 and older will receive an "MV3" T-shirt.

"This place is going to be packed. The whole ballpark is sold out already," said executive vice president David Buck, who was then asked what he was most excited about. "It's not one thing. It's everything. We're back to normal, we'll have a full house."

Buck also revealed that the iconic Home Run Liberty Bell beyond the center-field wall underwent some improvements this offseason. It was outfitted with thousands of new LED lights and a new hydraulics system to ensure it will be ready for the Phillies' revamped power-packed lineup.

"It's going to be a lot of fun," said Milt Thompson, who was introduced as a new team ambassador alongside Mickey Morandini. "Everyone has been asking me about the team this year -- it's going to remind me of 2008, when I was the hitting coach here. Man, they got an awesome lineup. They really do. It's going to be fun to watch."

Speaking of 2008, Ryan Howard -- part of the ownership group of Colbie's Southern Kissed Chicken -- is also expected to be around the ballpark a bit more this season.

"I'm excited for our team and to be able to share it with the fans and be able to have an impact on these fans in a different way at the ballpark this go-around," Howard said. "They can sit back, relax and enjoy the game, grab some Colbie's Southern Kissed Chicken and just enjoy the time with their family."