Starting just after 8:50 a.m., folks who'd been waiting in line, some since last night, began to gobble up tickets for this afternoon's season opener.

At 9:24, the last person in line - Juan Rodriguez, 26, of Reading - bought his tickets, and a Phillies official said, "That's it."

Only 500 standing-room tickets were supposed to be available, but a few lucky souls managed to get seats.

"I got my favorite seats, actually, behind home plate, 400 level," said Rob Weaver, 22, of Port Richmond.

He got lucky last year, too, he said. After missing out on the early standing-room sale - the tickets lasted only 15 minutes - he decided to hang around the ticket window in case some unwanted seats sprang loose.

About 20 minutes before the game, a Phillies official invited him and some other fans to an office to share some good news - and some tickets.

About 100 people were already in line by 8 this morning.

A family from Rhawnhurst, hoping to get 10 tickets, pitched a tent to start the line at 8 last night.

Despite the dreary weather, Jeannie Brown-Streeper, 39, was thrilled to be first, after being sixth last year. Her gang of five brought sleeping bags, food, drinks and even a TV.

"We're here, rain or shine," she said. "Doesn't matter. True Phillies fans!"

Some fans huddled in blankets trying to stay warm. But others were already spirited.

"It's Opening Day! It's the first win of 100 wins! ... Maybe more!" said Robert Bergez, 27, of Harrington, Del.

How far will the Phillies go this season?

"The ring," he said, confident of a World Series victory.

Tickets are still available for the second game, Wednesday night, dubbed the Opening Night game, the Phillies say.

Maroon T-shirts that simply say "Baseball" will be given out, and some fans will get free Peanut Chews afterward, according to Phillies spokeswoman Deb Rinaldi.