Excitement is growing in Philadelphia as the city prepares to host the 2026 MLB All-Star Game at Citizens Bank Park, marking the first time in 30 years that the event will take place in the city. The last time Philadelphia hosted was in 1996 at Veterans Stadium, where the National League won 6-0 and a total of 19 future Hall of Famers participated.
The anticipation for next July’s game was discussed on a recent episode of the “6-1-1 Podcast,” featuring Phillies alumni Ryan Howard and Jimmy Rollins along with Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro. During their conversation, Shapiro said, “It’s going to be amazing. I think the Bank’s going to be rocking. It’s going to be incredible.”
In 1996, pitcher Ricky Bottalico was the only Phillies player selected for the All-Star Game. Looking ahead to 2026, current stars such as Bryce Harper, Trea Turner, Zack Wheeler, and Cristopher Sánchez are seen as likely candidates to represent Philadelphia before a home crowd.
The podcast also highlighted a commemorative bat produced by Pennsylvania-based company Victus. The bat displays the official logo for the 2026 game and includes the phrase “Ring The bell.” Upon seeing it, Rollins commented, “That is sweet.”
Shapiro expressed optimism about local enthusiasm for next summer’s event: “Philly is just going to be on fire,” he said.
Fans can listen to or watch episodes of the “6-1-1 Podcast” on MLB.com, MLB.TV, YouTube and all major podcast platforms.
