Diamondbacks’ NLCS Game 2 starter Merrill Kelly addressed reporters ahead of Tuesday’s tilt against the Phillies, at which point he expressed some doubts that Citizens Bank Park would be the loudest ballpark he’s ever played in.
While Kelly acknowledged the significant home atmosphere in Philadelphia, he indicated that he’s played in a louder stadium, citing the World Baseball Classic when Trea Turner sent Team USA home with a victory via a game-winning grand slam against Venezuela.
“… And then going into the WBC game, I think that—I haven’t obviously heard this place on the field, but I’d be very surprised if it trumped that Venezuela game down in Miami,” said Kelly.
Well… challenge accepted, Merrill. pic.twitter.com/qGPUXMWQDk
— Jack Fritz (@JackFritzWIP) October 17, 2023
Kelly wasn’t on the mound during the United States’ dramatic victory over Venezuela in March, but he maintained that the crowd during that game at loanDepot Park was the loudest he’s ever experienced.
Phillies fans have certainly made their presence felt through the team’s run to the NLCS. The team is 5–0 in front of the crowd at Citizens Bank Park during the postseason, and will look to make it six straight home wins on Tuesday night.
Reports indicated that fans in Philadelphia reached a max volume of 112 decibels during Game 1 when Nick Castellanos hit a solo home run during the second inning. Fans may try to get even louder in Game 2 following Kelly’s pregame remarks.
