It’s not surprising that some Phillies prospects are in awe while walking through the Clearwater clubhouse. They might even admit that it’s pretty cool to be wearing the same uniform as Ryan Howard and Roy Halladay.
Enter Dan Meyer.
Meyer, who was born and raised in Woodbury, N.J., grew up a Phillies fan during the 1990s.
“My favorite players were Dickie Thon and Mickey Morandini,” Meyer said. “I loved those guys when I was growing up. You see Mike Schmidt walking through here and it’s just awesome to know you’re wearing the same uniform as the guy you idolized.”
Meyer, 29, is hoping to don the local laundry long term. The former Brave and Marlin is trying to earn a job with the Phillies as a left-handed relief specialist.
“I would love to make this team,” Meyer said. “You just know this is going to be a special year. I would love to be part of a World Series team and be on a squad with so many incredible players.”
But Meyer may need to pitch like he did in 2009, when he appeared in 71 games and recorded a 3.09 ERA, to earn such an opportunity. Last season, he posted a 9.64 ERA.
“I know I have to pitch well to make it,” Meyer said. “But I would like nothing more than being a Phillie. This was my team as a kid and I would love it for it to be my team now.”
