Phillies' Bobby Abreu hits first Citizens Bank Park home run

Milestone moment in 2004 marks opening of new Philadelphia stadium

Apr. 12, 2026 at 8:34am

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An abstract expressionist painting with vibrant neon brushstrokes capturing the excitement and motion of a baseball soaring through the air as it leaves the bat, surrounded by a swirling crowd in the new Citizens Bank Park stadium.Bobby Abreu's historic first home run at Citizens Bank Park ignited the Phillies' new stadium with electric energy.Philadelphia Today

On April 12, 2004, Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Bobby Abreu hit the first home run in the newly opened Citizens Bank Park, marking a historic moment in the stadium's inaugural season.

Why it matters

The opening of Citizens Bank Park was a significant event for the city of Philadelphia, as it replaced the aging Veterans Stadium and ushered in a new era for the Phillies franchise. Abreu's home run was an iconic moment that captured the excitement and energy of the new ballpark's debut.

The details

In the bottom of the 4th inning against the Cincinnati Reds, Abreu launched a solo shot over the right field wall, giving the Phillies a 1-0 lead. The home run was the first of many memorable moments that would take place at Citizens Bank Park over the years.

  • The game took place on April 12, 2004, the opening day of the new Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia.
  • Abreu's historic home run came in the bottom of the 4th inning.

The players

Bobby Abreu

An outfielder for the Philadelphia Phillies from 1998 to 2006, known for his consistent offensive production and All-Star caliber play.

Citizens Bank Park

The current home stadium of the Philadelphia Phillies, opened in 2004 to replace the aging Veterans Stadium.

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What they’re saying

“That first home run at the new park was really special. The energy in the stadium that day was electric.”

— Bobby Abreu, Former Phillies Outfielder

The takeaway

Abreu's historic home run marked the beginning of a new era for the Phillies franchise and the city of Philadelphia, as Citizens Bank Park went on to host many more memorable moments and become a beloved part of the city's sports landscape.