Philly Leader

The Philadelphia Phillies have initiated a new tradition to honor their Wall of Fame inductees with special rings. This year, the organization inducted late president David Montgomery and presented his widow, Lyn, with a ring on his behalf.

Phillies managing partner John Middleton emphasized the importance of alumni to the organization. “I’ve always lived my life with the idea that whatever you're doing today, you try to find ways to do it better tomorrow,” Middleton said. He added that these rings are not ordinary but are trophy rings meant for display or special occasions.

Middleton noted that when deciding who should receive NL championship rings in 2022, they included Wall of Famers due to their significant contributions. “Alumni are really important to us. The Wall of Famers are an inner circle of people who've been especially important to the organization,” he stated.

Former Phillies catcher Mike Lieberthal expressed his excitement upon receiving his ring, saying, “I finally got a ring.” Middleton shared that reactions like Lieberthal’s encouraged the continuation of this new tradition.

The Wall of Fame ring differs from other championship rings; it is made of yellow gold instead of white gold and contains 479 diamonds and rubies totaling 8.2 karats with "Wall of Fame" inscribed across the top.

David Montgomery was recognized for treating Phillies alumni like royalty and understanding their value to the franchise since its inception in 1883. Despite his modesty regarding such honors, Middleton believes Montgomery would have appreciated this recognition privately. “He’s being honored because he’s one of two owners/presidents who won the World Series. He deserves it,” Middleton concluded.