Phils Spicing Up the On-Deck Series

First, that's a pretty sweet SI cover. Hard to believe that up until about 3 years ago, the Phillies had only graced the cover of SI about a half dozen times. I'm struggling to find the info to back that up so you'll just have to take my word on it... 2nd year in a row for Doc.

Anyway, I'm surprisingly excited about tonight's game. A co-worker handed me some pretty nice seats for free. If you don't have a set of your own, a cool 89 cents should get you in the gate. What makes this on-deck series so special?

"The Phillies On-Deck Series features a spring-training like atmosphere filled with plenty of prizes and surprises! Both games include a mini-fan appreciation day, unique player and alumni interactions with fans, merchandise specials, entertainment, and more!"

I don't really know what that means, though it's been suggested that certain active and former players may be meandering around the concourse doing a little meet and greet with the fans. I wouldn't mind rubbing elbows with a few Phils while standing in line for crab fries.

Other things to look forward to:

• Roy Oswalt throws today. I'd expect to see him stretched out for about 5 innings.
• Luis Castillo will almost certainly see significant playing time.
• New video board and 800+ new TVs.
• New food stands.
• Complete remodel to the Majestic Store.

44 Degrees an Sunny for the first pitch. Not exactly the shorts and t-shirt weather we had for Opening Day in DC last year, but I've had a blast at games with far worse weather (see: Game 3, 2008 World Series). I realize I'm psyching myself up for a meaningless game, but unless one of you wants to send your favorite blogger to Friday's game on your dime, I'm going to have to settle for meaningless baseball this week!