The Philadelphia Phillies have officially kicked off Spring Training, but just before that, team owner John Middleton gave the team a passionate speech to fire them up, reports John Clark for NBC Sports Philadelphia. 

“John gave a pretty heartfelt, pretty emotional speech that brought up the championship years, but also the years that they just missed,” said catcher JT Realmuto.

Middleton’s message closely mirrors the one he gave Ryan Howard and the Phillies before the 2008 season, which ended with the team hoisting the World Series trophy up in the air at the end of the season. 

“Get that f— trophy back.” said Middleton. “It is time.”

After coming so close to finishing the deal in each of the past two seasons, the Phillies are hopeful the third year is the charm.

Pitcher Spencer Turnbull, one of the newcomers to the team, can see that already.

“They all look like a close-knit group, they really support each other, the vibes are all very positive,” he said. “Super competitive atmosphere … It’s a winning culture. It’s just really cool to be a part of.” 

The key this season will be establishing a fast start, aided by a healthy Bryce Harper, now at first base.

Learn more about the Phillies’ outlook and expectations ahead of the 2024 season in NBC Sports Philadelphia.

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