Phillies Fan Who Caught Ryan Howard’s HR Ball Returns It, Meets Retiring First Baseman

Ryan Howard was honored by his Philadelphia Phillies in Sunday’s 5-2 home victory over the New York Mets, both teams’ final game of the regular season.

Phillies Fan Who Caught Ryan Howard’s HR Ball Returns It, Meets Retiring First Baseman

Though the 36-year-old first baseman’s career at Citizens Bank Park is winding down, some fans continue to show their admiration for him.

One such particular fan was 27-year-old John Markocki of Port Richmond, who was sitting in the right outfield seats when he caught Howard’s two-run homer ball, which came in the fifth inning of Saturday’s game. The Mets defeated the Phillies 5-3 on Saturday.

“They asked me if I wanted the ball signed and I said absolutely, so we went to the box office and they said that Ryan wanted the ball and in exchange I would be able to present him with the ball at the end of the game,” Markocki said. “He would give me another autographed ball and bat in place of that and I figured he would want the ball more than I do.”

This wasn’t the first time Markocki caught the ball off the bat of a Phillies first baseman, however. He also has a souvenir ball from Jim Thome, who coincidentally was replaced by Howard.

A special pre-game ceremony honored Howard, a team veteran and the only remaining member of the 2008 World Series Championship team.

His wife, Krystal, joined him on the field. Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt presented him with a commemorative plaque. For Howard, it was hard to keep back the tears.

“My family has grown with all of you,” said Howard.