“Safe!” That’s the call you’d likely hear echoing around Citizens Bank Park. It would fit perfectly with the scene captured in the Play at Second Base Statue. This bronze artwork freezes a split-second of baseball action. It honors the sport’s enduring appeal.
The Play at Second Base Statue is one of four baseball statues that once graced Veterans Stadium. They stood there from 1976 to 2003. The Phillies then removed them before the Vet’s demolition. They restored and relocated them in March 2005. It was a lasting tribute to the sculptor Joe Brown.
Joe Brown was a South Philadelphia native. He was also a Temple University graduate. Brown later became a member of the Philadelphia Art Commission. He was a professor and sculptor at Princeton University. The Art Commission selected him in 1970 to create these four statues.
The Phillies played at Veterans Stadium from 1971 to 2003. They reached the post-season seven times. They won three National League pennants in 1980, 1983, and 1993. The Phillies’ greatest moment was winning the World Series. It was on October 21, 1980, over the Kansas City Royals. 65,838 delirious fans were at the Vet. Twice, the Phillies hosted the All-Star Game in 1976 and 1996. The National League won both games.
Following the last out of the 2003 season, the Phillies closed Veterans Stadium. It was an emotional Closing Ceremony. It featured a parade of Alumni and the 2003 team. Tug McGraw threw the simulated last pitch. He got the final out in the 1980 World Series win. The date was September 28. It was 11,859 days after the first game on April 10, 1971.
Hundreds of youth from the area played at Veterans Stadium. They played through numerous baseball programs. These included the Carpenter Cup for high school players. Others were the Liberty Bell Classic and Bill Giles Cup for colleges. There were also Philadelphia Recreation Department games. The Home Run Derby championships were held there annually.
So, as you stand before the Play at Second Base Statue, remember its history. Remember its original home at Veterans Stadium. Envision the cheers of the crowds. Feel the excitement of the game. This statue is more than bronze. It is a symbol of Philadelphia’s love for baseball. It is a tribute to the countless memories made on the field.