Phillies 50-50: Good start, but fan fails to claim $19K

The first three 50-50 raffles at Citizens Bank Park raised more than $63,000 for Phillies Charities, while awarding heaps of cash to a couple of fans.

The first winner, however, still hadn't come forward as of this morning.

The person whose slip had No. 177150 at Friday's game against the Atlanta Braves failed to claim the prize of $19,328 after the eighth-inning drawing.

Winners have until 15 days after the last home game of the season or the playoffs, explained Michele DeVicaris, the club's manager of community and charity events.

"To claim prize, visit Guest Services on the Main Concourse or call 215-463-1000 for further instructions," according to the Phillies raffle page.

"So far so good," said DeVicaris said of the raffles, which are held only at Friday, Saturday and Sunday home games. "We're really happy with the way it worked out."

The most popular choice was three chances for $5, and all three winners purchased the $5 option, she said. Fans could also buy seven numbers for $10, 15 for $20.

Pennsylvania amended its small games of chance law in December, allowing pro baseball, basketball, hockey and soccer teams the right to offer 50-50 raffles, splitting the proceeds between an official charity and a single fan.

The Flyers plunged right in, Sales at 25 games hauled in more than $1.3 million, over $53,000 per game. Winners collected half, more than $26,500 per game.

The Philadelphia Union soccer team has also had 50/50s this season, collecting about $100,000 in nine games, half in prize money.

Yet to make a claim, though, is a guy whose number H-30804 won $12,170 at the June 29 game.

The Sixers might join the bandwagon this season, said spokesman Michael Preston. "That is something we are exploring as part of wide-ranging new community initiatives here."

Legislation is pending to allow the Eagles and Pittsburgh Steelers the right to offer 50/50 raffles as well.

If the raffles are popular, the Phillies might offer them next season at every home game, not just weekend games, DeVicaris said.

Contact staff writer Peter Mucha at 215-854-4342 or pmucha@phillynews.com.