Philadelphia Sports Radio Host Howard Eskin Banned from Citizens Bank Park for Unwelcome Advance

Howard Eskin, a well-known figure in Philadelphia sports media, has been barred from attending events at Citizens Bank Park for the remainder of the MLB season following allegations of an unwelcome advance toward an Aramark employee. The incident, which occurred in May, has also led to Eskin’s suspension from the Philadelphia 76ers’ training facility until further notice.

Eskin, 73, is a prominent and polarizing sports radio personality who has been a staple in Philadelphia sports since the 1980s. He was accused of making an unwelcome advance towards a female Aramark employee at Citizens Bank Park, specifically attempting to kiss her without consent in an exclusive seating area behind home plate. The incident was promptly reported by the employee, leading to an investigation by Audacy, the parent company of WIP radio, the Philadelphia Phillies, and Aramark.

Audacy issued a statement confirming the incident and the subsequent actions taken. “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,” the company said. The Phillies and Aramark also released statements supporting Audacy’s decision to suspend Eskin from the ballpark.

“The safety of our employees is paramount,” Aramark stated. “When we learned that an Aramark employee had been subjected to an unwanted advance by an Audacy employee, we immediately began an investigation, which corroborated the allegations.”

The Philadelphia 76ers joined the Phillies in barring Eskin from their facilities. A spokesperson for the 76ers confirmed that Eskin is not permitted to access their training complex in Camden, New Jersey, or any team activities at the Wells Fargo Center for the foreseeable future.

Eskin has been a major presence in Philadelphia sports media, known for his opinionated takes and extensive coverage. He started with WIP in 1986 and has hosted numerous shows on the station. Despite reducing his role at the station in 2011, Eskin remains active as a sideline reporter for Philadelphia Eagles broadcasts and hosts a two-hour Saturday morning show.

However, this incident has cast a shadow over his long career. Known for his brash personality, Eskin has often been a divisive figure among listeners and peers. The allegations and subsequent suspension have further complicated his legacy in the Philadelphia sports community.

The news of Eskin’s suspension has sparked various reactions within the sports community and among fans. Some have called for harsher penalties, questioning why Eskin has not been fully suspended from broadcasting. Audacy confirmed that while Eskin will not be at Citizens Bank Park or the 76ers’ facilities, he will continue his on-air duties, though he will miss his upcoming Saturday show for unrelated reasons.

The Philadelphia Eagles and Flyers are also monitoring the situation. An Eagles spokesperson stated, “We became aware of the incident regarding Mr. Eskin yesterday and will continue to monitor the situation.”