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.
Ibanez on pace to hit 74 homers, make everyone forget about Burrell by next week
Raul Ibanez is quickly becoming a fan favorite 11 games into his Phillies career. His walk-off two-run home run in the Phils’ 5-4 win over the Padres on Sunday gave him five this season and is tied for the National League lead in that category.
The left fielder was brought in to replace Pete Burrell, who signed with the Rays this past offseason. Ibanez’s quick start has already caused most casual fans to forget last year’s left fielder and all signs point to there being no recollection or historical record of Pete Incaviglia having ever existed as a Phillie come next week.
The Phillies will take on the Padres tonight in the series finale with Jamie Moyer taking the mound against Kevin Correia.