Rare photo capturing Phillies last win found in old shoebox

Ian Abramson of Allentown, PA stumbled upon what has now been confirmed as an authentic photograph of the most recent victory in Phillies history, circa 1937.

The photo shows Bucky “Big Fly” Howard, Johnny “Scoops” Victorino and Spanky “The Spark” Ibanez of the early-century Phils team celebrating after a win against the Boston Bees on May 31, 1937, unaware that the franchise would then spiral into an epic 71-season winless drought.

“I had forgotten that the Phils used to actually win games, so finding this photo was pretty nostalgic for me,” said Abramson, a retired WWII veteran. “My buddies didn’t believe me and thought the picture was doctored, but I had it examinded and it’s the real thing.”

The Phillies will begin their road trip against the Rays on Tuesday in their 11,376th attempt to get back into the win column.

Zaki is the Chief Rocka and senior writer for PhillyGameday.com.