Philadelphia Phillies radio broadcaster Howard Eskin has been banned from Citizens Bank Park for the remainder of the season following an “unwanted kiss” directed toward an Aramark employee, according to a statement from Audacy, the parent company of WIP-FM, where Eskin is a host.
“We learned of an unwelcome kiss by Howard Eskin towards an Aramark employee at Citizens Bank Park. We take these matters very seriously. We immediately investigated and took action to address the matter,” Audacy stated.
The incident reportedly occurred in May at the CP Rankin Club, a seating area behind home plate. Aramark, which manages the food and beverage services at the park, is conducting an investigation alongside the Phillies and Audacy. Aramark confirmed that an employee “had been subjected to an unwanted advance by an Audacy employee.”
“We then worked with Audacy and the Phillies to ensure that appropriate steps were taken to protect our employee and all of the Aramark employees at Citizens Bank Park,” Aramark said.
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Despite the ban, Eskin will continue to perform his broadcasting duties and will remain on air for his morning slot on Saturday. Eskin has not yet released a statement regarding the incident.
The Philadelphia Phillies also issued a statement supporting Audacy’s decision to suspend Eskin from the ballpark for the season. “The Phillies take these allegations very seriously. We cooperated with our partners at Audacy and Aramark on their investigations. We support Audacy’s decision to suspend Howard Eskin from Citizens Bank Park,” the Phillies said.
Eskin has been a prominent figure in Philadelphia sports broadcasting, working with both radio and television since 1986 on WIP-FM and WCAU. Over his career, he has been known for his outspoken nature and has had public disputes with notable sports figures, including Allen Iverson, Terrell Owens, and Curt Schilling.
One of the most memorable incidents involved former Phillies manager Charlie Manuel, who was so upset by Eskin’s remarks that he challenged the broadcaster to a fight during a press conference in the 2007 season.
This recent controversy marks a significant moment in Eskin’s long career, raising questions about workplace conduct and the responsibilities of public figures. The swift action by Audacy, Aramark, and the Phillies underscores the importance of maintaining a respectful and safe environment for all employees and patrons at Citizens Bank Park.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on ensuring that appropriate measures are in place to prevent similar incidents in the future.
