The Philadelphia Inquirer Speaks to Josh Gerben About the Phillies “BEDLAM AT THE BANK” Trademark Filing

The Philadelphia Phillies have filed trademark applications with the USPTO in order to protect the phrase “BEDLAM AT THE BANK.” This phrase was uttered by Phillies radio announcer, Scott Franzke, to describe the scene at Citizens Bank Park after Bryce Harper hit the home run that sent the Phillies to the 2022 World Series.

The Philadelphia Inquirer discussed the trademark filing with Josh Gerben.

It’s not uncommon for professional sports teams to file trademarks that protect the team’s property such as logos, mascots, fan clubs, and more.

According to trademark attorney Josh Gerben, it is unusual to see a team file an application to protect a play-by-play call from a tv or radio broadcast. “It’s rare to have a historic moment where the call by the announcer is also historic.”

Source: Lauber, Scott. Inquirer.com. “Phillies have trademarked ‘Bedlam at the Bank’”. 19 March 2023.