Getting Ready for the Game

One of the great joys of baseball is discovering something different every time you attend a game. Yesterday, I decided to focus on the activity before the action begins. Two hours before gametime, while the Phillies held batting practice in the indoor hitting cages, the pitchers began their daily routine. First, a little toss while a member of the grounds crew waters the field

(Above) A solitary moment as pitcher Jake Diekman walks past Citi Field's upraised home run apple. (Below) Brian Sanches and Vance Worley talk shop.

I noticed this last season as well: the Phillies pitching staff as it goes through an organized stretching session.

(Above) The Phillies line up outside the dugout as the national anthem is performed by a pair of singers at home plate. (Below) An unusual autograph, as Phils coach Pete Mackanin signs the shirt worn by an unusually devoted fan.

(Above) Phillies starting pitcher Cliff Lee heads from the bullpen toward the dugout and passes his team's relievers who're heading in the opposite direction. (Below) Lee and catcher Carlos Ruiz, complete their walk.