It has been three long years since the Philadelphia Phillies have made a playoff appearance. Spanning from 2007-2011 the Phillies endured a run of five successive division titles. This run included winning their second World Series in 2008. However, since losing in the 2011 NLDS, the once dominant team has struggled to put together the same caliber of results. Finishing the 2014 season with a record of 73-89 for the second season in a row, they are poised to be major players this offseason. All signs are pointing to a high level of activity at the Winter Meetings, as they have promised a complete roster overhaul.
For the 2015 season Phillies tickets are presently averaging $263.40 for their games at Citizens Bank Park. The potential most expensive games at Citizens Bank Park this season will come against division rival the Miami Marlins. Tickets for their meeting against the Miami Marlins on October 3rd have an average price of $385.37. With a get-in price at $39.00, the second to last home game of the regular season could have major playoff implications.
This does not mean that ticket prices will skyrocket for all 2015 home games. Philadelphia’s game against the Washington on April 12th has an average price of $184.65 for Phillies vs Nationals tickets, 37% lower than the 2015 season average. With a get-in price of $21.00, this early season match up is the finale of their first three game series.
Philadelphia’s offseason plans seem to revolve around rebuilding, this would require the freeing of salary space, which means the possible exist of players with large contracts. With a trio of players coming off of strong seasons, moving the players would give them the best chance of receiving adequate compensation.
Pitcher Cole Hamels has been highlighted as a potential piece to be moved, as the skilled left-hander finished last season with an era of 2.46. Power-hitting right fielder Marlon Byrd, who lead the Phillies with 25 homeruns, and stud closer Jonathan Papelbon have also surfaced as possible departures along side Hamels.
So far the player transactions this offseason reflect the potential roster overhaul. The team has announced a mutual agreement with pitcher A.J. Burnett to decline his player option for 2015. They have also splashed into the free agent market with the most notable signing of outfielder Grady Sizemore to a one-year-contract.
Last season the Phillies finished in last in the National League East. After two disappointing seasons, ticket prices could correlate to the course of action the front office follows over this offseason. With most speculation gravitating around building for the future, ticket prices may see a decrease on the secondary market.
