On scouting trip to the Galapagos Islands in 1978,  at-the-time Phillies GM Bill Giles discovered a strange, bright green creature who, amazingly enough, loved the Philadelphia Phillies. 

After coaxing the huge, flightless bird with an anteater tongue from his den with Hatfield Franks,  the official hot dog of the Phillies, Giles convinced the creature to return to Philadelphia and become the team's official mascot.

Forty-six years ago today the Phanatic made his debut.  April 21st is the Phanatics observed birthday since Galapagos birth records are sketchy, at best.

From launching hot dogs into the stands, to riding his ATV around the field, to buffing bald guys heads, to bringing joy to kids and fans everywhere, to irritating the hell put of opposing teams, the Phanatic is the hands-down, greatest mascot in all of sports.

The Phanatic celebrated his 46th birthday today with his mother, Phoebe, his girlfriend, Phiona, about twenty of his mascot friends and 40,000 Phillies fans.

Happy birthday, Phanatic!!!!!