Fans rush to buy postseason merch after Phillies win first NL East title in 13 years

After win the NL East title For the first time in 13 years, Phillies fans stormed the New Era Team Store at Citizens Bank Park on Tuesday and rummaged through the shelves to grab new merchandise.

“We went to the outlets in Gloucester Township and then to Dick’s, and since they were all sold out, we crossed the bridge and came here,” said Leslie DeLuca, who lives in Gloucester Township.

DeLuca and Alesia Vasta were among the steady stream of customers who spent part of Tuesday celebrating and picking up Phillies gear. Vasta wore a T-shirt from when the Phils won the division in 2011.

“My husband was a huge Phillies fan. We had season tickets, but he died last year, so I’m doing this for him,” Vasta said.

From hats to hoodies to the most popular item that sold quickly, a red t-shirt with the words “We Own The East”, many fans are now ready and ready for Red October.

“Everyone sees the players getting these on the field, so it’s a really good connection for them to have these pieces for themselves, so they’re always extremely popular,” said Kristin Zeller, director of retail marketing.

“I wanted to be able to wear it with pride. I’m happy about it. It looks good in this combination,” said Larry Patrick, showing off a new hat and T-shirt he bought at the store.

The Phillies know how to celebrate, but on Monday night Celebration seemed to mean more. The players sprayed champagne and beer in the locker room after winning the NL East, but the message was loud and clear: Their main mission was to win the World Series.

“We want more, this is not the end,” said Thomas Salamone, holding up a sign that read “NL East Champs. Now we want more!”

“Oh yeah, that’s definitely what we all hope for, is to win the World Series. They’re going to go all the way this year. This year is all the way,” Vasta said.