PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — Salute to Service Night made its mark for Armed Forces Weekend in the city that signed the Declaration of Independence, as the Philadelphia Phillies hosted the Pittsburgh Pirates in the second game of their three-game series at Citizens Bank Park. Myself, Matthew Tallarini—founder and chief correspondent of World Baseball Network—and Lou Bernardi, a former independent professional pitcher and current pitching coach at the United States Merchant Marine Academy, who also serves as a media advisor for World Baseball Network, were on-site.
During the pregame festivities, fans witnessed an impressive flyover featuring Blackhawk and Chinook helicopters during the national anthem.
PHILLIES SALUTE TO SERVICE 🎖️#RingTheBell #Phillies#SalutetoService pic.twitter.com/6IBcIER0CL
— Phillies Beisbol Network (@Philliesbeisbol) May 18, 2025
Saturday’s pregame ceremony at Citizens Bank Park honored veterans from multiple conflicts, local heroes, and advocates from Team Foster. The program included a ceremonial first pitch by retired Army Corporal David Billingsley, a flyover by U.S. Army Blackhawk and Chinook helicopters, and musical performances by the U.S. Air Force Heritage Brass Quintet.
Today we honored local heroes during the Salute to Service Night, including Corporoal David Billingsley who threw the ceremonial first pitch! pic.twitter.com/3RwbkkRtbb
— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) May 17, 2025
MLB’s Commitment to Service
Numerous baseball legends, including Willie Mays, Yogi Berra, Ted Williams, and Joe DiMaggio, served their country while making history on the diamond. Military institutions across the United States continue to shape student-athletes who serve during or after their academic careers—particularly those not recruited by MLB or independent clubs.
Major League Baseball has embraced that legacy with its ongoing tradition of Salute to Service nights across the league, highlighted by camo caps, in-game tributes, and community engagement events during Armed Forces Weekend
Brent Strom, assistant pitching coach for the Pittsburgh Pirates, reflected on what the weekend means to him:
“It’s a special time. I make it a point every time I come in from the bullpen to shake hands with security—whoever’s in front of our dugout—and thank them for their service. My dad was a Marine—fought in World War II—and I remember looking at his dress blues, which I thought were the best-looking uniforms in the service. I have a fondness for the military and what they bring. My wife and I pray for them every night.”
Philadelphia Phillies Designated Hitter Kyle Schwarber spoke to the deeper meaning of playing on a weekend like this:
“It’s a big deal. We’re fortunate to have the freedoms we do, to play this great game, and to have fans come out and enjoy it. Some of those fans are veterans or active-duty service members. For our active members, veterans, and Gold Star families—we can’t thank them enough.”
Pittsburgh Pirates Utility Player Jared Triolo shared what it meant to take the field during Armed Forces Weekend in a Pennsylvania rivalry setting:
“It’s really cool. Playing here in Philly, especially being a Pennsylvania matchup, it’s a fun environment. And the Armed Forces stuff is awesome—New Balance sent us some special cleats, and there are a lot of cool tributes going on around the league this weekend.”
Honorees and Highlights of Salute to Service Night
Veterans recognized included representatives from World War II, Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan, and more recent deployments, such as Herbert Ridyard, Robert Daub, and Andrew Einstein. Team Foster advocates and Phillies military employee honorees also took part in the ceremonies.
For the full list of honorees and event details, read the Phillies’ official Salute to Service press release.
A Shared Rivalry with Shared Respect
Interim Pirates manager Don Kelly acknowledged the challenge of facing Phillies ace Zack Wheeler.
“He’s a heck of a pitcher. The stuff he’s got, the career he’s had—we’re looking forward to the challenge.”
Wheeler backed up that reputation on Saturday night, tossing six scoreless innings and helping the Phillies secure a 5–2 win. The Pirates managed both of their runs in the ninth inning, long after Wheeler had exited.
The Phillies will also host First Responders Night on September 11 at 7:15 p.m. ET against the New York Mets.
Sunday’s Matchup: Paul Skenes vs. Mick Abel
The 2025 Armed Forces Weekend series wraps up Sunday afternoon as Paul Skenes takes the mound for Pittsburgh in his Citizens Bank Park debut, facing Phillies right-hander Mick Abel, who will be making his major league debut. First pitch is set for 1:35 p.m. ET.
Zack Wheeler talks about Mick Abel making his Major League Debut Sunday
(Via @TimKellySports) pic.twitter.com/uxnYHNqGCP
— On Pattison (@OnPattison) May 18, 2025
A former Air Force Academy standout and 2023 national champion at LSU, Skenes has drawn national attention not only for his dominant arm but also for his intent to return to military service after his playing career.
Pitching on Armed Forces Weekend brings his journey full circle—especially with his recent commitment to represent Team USA in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. For a platform like World Baseball Network, which highlights international play, military connections, and independent league talent, Skenes’ story is one that continues to transcend team standings and calendar dates. More on MLB’s Salute to Service efforts
Blackhawk and Chinook helicopters perform a flyover during the national anthem prior to a baseball game between the Pittsburgh Pirates and the Philadelphia Phillies, Saturday, May 17, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
