Friday night at Citizens Bank Park was a good one! It wasn’t just home runs and strikeouts; it had everyone laughing. As the Phillies played the Angels, there was a lot of mischief in the air, too. The jumbotron lit up, spectators leaned in, and then… Coldplay’s song filled the stadium. Heads turned right away, and a wave of laughter swept through the stands.

That identifiable riff to the viral Coldplay kiss-cam incident hit like a pop-culture punchline. The crowd couldn’t stop thinking about the singer’s funny line, “Either they’re having an affair or they’re just very shy.” When the ballpark played that song, the laughter and applause that followed felt like being in a viral meme in real life.

Magic occurred during the Kiss Cam segment with Coldplay’s “Clocks” playing in the background. And the crowd instantly connected the dots. The kiss cam moved and captured the Phillie Phanatic mimicking the recent controversy involving the Astronomer CEO and HR Chief at Gillette Stadium, Massachusetts. Fox 29 reporter Jason Martinez uploaded that video on X, which reignited the moment all over in seconds.

By now, you’re familiar with the scandal. Astronomer CEO Andy Byron and HR chief Kristin Cabot were caught on a jumbotron having a moment of their own. Both tried to avoid the cameras, sparking rumors about an affair. Within hours, social media was buzzing about them, making them the new “ColdplayGate” stars.

It’s not only the Phillies mascot, but broadcasters also joined in on the fun. Gary Striewski and Randy Scott, anchors of ESPN’s SportsCenter, acted out the awkward moment between the CEO and the HR chief during a morning broadcast. They joked, “Uh, it’s time to Kiss It Goodbye,” and “baseball’s probably not the only thing you could say that about recently.”

Talking about the scandal, Astronomer took the grapevine seriously and dealt with it head-on. On X, the corporation issued a statement. “Astronomer is committed to the values and culture that have guided us since our founding. Our leaders are expected to set the standard in both conduct and accountability. The Board of Directors has initiated a formal investigation into this matter, and we will have additional details to share very shortly.” The AI company also stated that Byron is on leave and co-founder Pete DeJoy is taking over as CEO in the meantime.

Meanwhile, what about the game?

The Phillies lost a close game to the Angels, 5–6. But even with the loss, that moment made Friday night a memorable one. Thanks to Phillie Phanatic! They continually provide hilarious moments for baseball fans. This is why they are not only the most followed mascot in MLB, but also cherished by players.

Tattooed by Harper, loved by millions: The Phanatic’s wild MLB reign

The Phillie Phanatic is now the most popular mascot in MLB. They’re leading Instagram charts with their unique mix of green fur, funny character, and charisma. They are ahead of mascots like Blooper and Mr. Met, according to Sprout Social.

National polls back up this fandom: In a survey of 2,000 baseball fans, the Phanatic was chosen the “best and most intimidating” mascot. Fans praised them for getting the crowd pumped up and boosting morale at Citizens Bank Park.

The fame goes far beyond the baseball field. With more than 200,000 Instagram followers, and an ENFP-style personality that draws people in. They post frequently about things like riding an ATV, making fun of rival fans, and mimicking viral moments like they did on Friday night.

Even Bryce Harper, the superstar for the Phillies, couldn’t resist this popularity. Back in February, Harper got a fine-line tattoo of the Phanatic riding his ATV on his right forearm. It’s a clever way to show his love for the team and add some style. Evidently, this mascot is more than just a symbol of the Phillies.

The Phanatic is the most popular mascot, but it’s also the most important part of Philly culture. They bind fans, athletes, and the city in a green-fuzzed, tongue-wagging maelstrom of love that includes social media stats, national polls, and real-life tattoos.