Phillies' John Middleton and Flyers' Dan Hilferty

·51 min·5 clips

Phillies owner John Middleton declares they will bring the trophy back if he and Dave Dombrowski have anything to do with it.

The episode begins with hosts Mike Sielski and Glenn Macnow welcoming Phillies owner John Middleton and Comcast Spectacor chairman Dan Hilferty. Middleton immediately addresses the Phillies' goal to win a World Series, emphasizing collaboration with president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski. He then delves into the financial intricacies of the MLB luxury tax, explaining the impact of exceeding the second threshold on draft picks and international signings. Middleton discusses the balance between winning now and maintaining a strong farm system with prospects like Aidan Miller and Andrew Painter. The hosts transition to the proposed redevelopment of the South Philadelphia sports complex, a partnership between the Phillies and Comcast Spectacor. Hilferty describes the vision for a multi-use district inspired by developments like The Battery in Atlanta, aiming to integrate sports, residential, and commercial spaces. Middleton notes the Phillies' historical limitations due to lack of controlled land, making this partnership key. The conversation addresses the Sixers' plans for a downtown arena at 10th and Market. Both Middleton and Hilferty clarify that their project is not designed to thwart the Sixers but to entice them to stay, though they proceed independently. Hilferty argues that Philadelphia cannot support two major arenas, citing event capacity studies. The hosts ask about the Eagles' stance, with Middleton mentioning ongoing discussions and tailgating considerations. Hilferty shifts to the Flyers, explaining their rebuilding philosophy under GM Daniel Briere and president Keith Jones, focusing on culture, drafting, and long-term contention rather than immediate playoff pressure. Middleton and Hilferty detail the project's funding, emphasizing private investment for amenities and public support for infrastructure like transportation improvements. They mention engagement with Mayor Cherelle Parker and Governor Josh Shapiro, who are reportedly enthusiastic. The episode concludes with each guest sharing what excites them most: Hilferty highlights fan experience and aging rock acts, while Middleton envisions a transformative redevelopment for Philadelphia's future.

As heard by us

Philadelphia sports ownership links a Phillies title chase with the funding, traffic, and access questions around the sports complex.

The episode ties the Phillies' title push to the larger future of Philadelphia's sports complex, using John Middleton and Dan Hilferty as two angles on the same civic sports conversation.

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Why you'd press play

You get Phillies title pressure alongside a privately funded six-thousand-seat venue vision for Philadelphia's sports complex.

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