Philadelphia Phillies honor police officers during NLDS and NLCS playoff games
Christopher Tremoglie
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The Philadelphia Phillies are on an epic postseason run into their second straight National League Championship Series. But no matter what success the team enjoys on the field, they made sure to thank the people who risk their lives to protect and serve and keep the public safe.
During their previous two games, the Phillies honored police officers who were shot in the line of duty. It was a refreshing change of pace from some of the other things MLB teams have honored recently.
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On Thursday, Oct. 12, during Game 4 of the NLDS against the Atlanta Braves, midway through the game, the Phillies honored four wounded Philadelphia police officers. They were all shown on the screen, and the sellout crowd gave them a well-deserved standing ovation.
Incidentally, later that night, two police officers, Richard Mendez and Raul Ortiz, were shot at Philadelphia International Airport while trying to prevent several people from breaking into a car in a parking garage. The Associated Press reported that Ortiz was shot once in the arm, while Mendez was shot multiple times. Mendez succumbed to his wounds, dying about 30 minutes after the confrontation.
Then, Monday night, Oct. 16, during Game 1 of the NLCS, the Phillies invited Ortiz to the game and honored him with a tribute in the middle of it. Ortiz appeared on the stadium’s jumbo screen with his left arm that was shot in a sling, wearing a Phillies jacket. Just like a few days earlier, Philadelphia fans gave the wounded Ortiz a loud standing ovation in recognition of his bravery.
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After the tragic death of Officer Mendez on Thursday, the Phillies acted quickly to show their respect and appreciation for Mendez and Ortiz. It’s the kind of appreciation sports organizations should do more regularly, especially when violent crime has surged nationwide. Teams should regularly recognize the courage and bravery of police officers.
While it has always been a daunting occupation, their jobs are particularly challenging in 2023 and arguably more dangerous now than at any time in recent memory. They have to worry about being attacked by evil, vicious criminals while on duty and Democratic politicians while off duty. The Phillies should be applauded for their decision, and more professional sports teams and sports leagues should follow the Phillies’s lead.