The Philadelphia Phillies have enjoyed their week of rest after securing a first-round bye in the National League playoffs.
Now, with the Los Angeles Dodgers sweeping the Cincinnati Reds in the wild-card round, the Phillies know their opponent and will open the Division Series on Saturday night at Citizens Bank Park.
Philadelphia will have home-field advantage to begin the series, and the atmosphere is expected to be electric. Citizens Bank Park has long been known for its raucous, loyal crowds, and postseason baseball in Philadelphia has become one of the most intense environments in the majors.
Adding to the buzz, the Phillies announced a special promotion for fans: the “9-9-9 Challenge.”
MORE: Phillies vs. Dodgers schedule, scores, TV channels for NLDS
The contest asks fans to consume nine hot dogs and nine beers over nine innings. To simplify the challenge, the team will sell a pre-packaged box containing nine mini hot dogs and nine smaller-sized beers, along with a scorecard on the front so participants can track their progress without leaving their seats.
The Phillies are selling The 9-9-9 Challenge during the postseason.
— Front Office Sports (@FOS) October 3, 2025
9 hot dogs, 9 beers, 9 innings.
(via @APgelston) pic.twitter.com/JiEpaPih9l
While fans enjoy the offbeat promotion, the Phillies will focus on business on the field.
Left-hander Cristopher Sanchez, who emerged as a breakout ace this season, will start Game 1. Sanchez went 13-5 with a 2.50 ERA and 212 strikeouts, providing a reliable anchor for the rotation. He will face Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani, who is expected to start on the mound and contribute at the plate.
Offensively, Philadelphia will lean on Kyle Schwarber, Bryce Harper and Trea Turner to power a lineup aiming for the club’s first World Series championship since 2008.
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