On Friday, the Phillies released their preliminary promotional calendar - announcing details for previously unknown giveaways and posting pictures of a few key promos we already were aware of. As has become their way (in general), the team's list of freebies included a couple head-scratchers, and from my view, left little to look forward to. With that said, there are still a few you should consider buying a ticket to obtain. Here are my Top and Bottom five promotions:
Top 5 2014 Phillies SGAs
- Chase Utley Bobble Figurine (6/10) – This will be the third Utley SGA issue (2006 and 2008 were the others). I like the fielding pose, and away gray uniform – both different than what we've seen in the past.
- Cliff Lee Figurine (6/1) – It may not look much like Lee, but based on the previous figurines in this line (Cole Hamels and John Kruk), this is a must have.
- Phanatic Phun Glasses (5/18) - Like other quirky Phanatic giveaways from previous seasons, I see this one having a cult-following, too.
Ryne Sandberg Bat (5/30) - Dismiss me as old-fashioned, but "bat day" needs to be an annual promotion.- Alumni Weekend (8/8 – 8/10) – No specifics have been disclosed for the weekend, but it always results in at least one good hand-out.
Bottom 5 2014 Phillies SGAs
- Ryan Howard Bobble Figurine (8/19) - Previously listed as 'TBD', this was a new announcement. Speculation had been that the team might use the spot to debut a Domonic Brown bobble – but, ultimately the team has decided to tee-up yet another one for Howard.
Phillies Cap (5/6) – Not sure who they are marketing this to, but whoever green-lighted this design should be doubting their career choice.- CBP Commemorative Ball/Tin Bank (4/13) - While there have been legitimate occasions to recognize in previous seasons – MVPs, Cy Young Awards, etc. – celebrating 10 years at Citizens Bank Park seems like a huge stretch.
- CBP Commemorative Banner (4/7) – Same feelings as #3.
- Opening Night T-Shirt (4/9) – Like the Phillies lineup, this promo just seems old and tired out.
