There was an extra-special guest in the NBC Sports Philadelphia broadcast booth this weekend, and he brought more energy than a cup of coffee from the concession stand. During Saturday’s Phillies game against the Colorado Rockies, none other than Sesame Street’s Elmo dropped by Citizens Bank Park as part of the "Strike Out the Stigma" event, a mental health awareness initiative.

Elmo joined veteran announcers Tom McCarthy and John Kruk, and the chemistry was instant. McCarthy kicked things off by asking Elmo about his day at the ballpark. "Oh, it’s been wonderful, yeah," Elmo replied, before adding with classic enthusiasm, "And Elmo loves the Phillies! Go Phillies, baby!" McCarthy couldn’t resist pointing out the obvious: "Well, that’s because you’re red, they’re red." Elmo agreed with a chuckle: "That’s true. That’s very true."

The conversation shifted to the Phillie Phanatic, the team’s beloved mascot. "Did you meet the Phanatic today?" Kruk asked. "Oh, yes. The Phanatic’s fantastic!" Elmo exclaimed. "Talk about as big as Big Bird." It was a moment that reminded everyone of the playful crossover between baseball and childhood nostalgia.

But Elmo didn’t just come for the chatter—he came with a mission. He made it clear he wanted to see some home runs, and the Phillies delivered. Alec Bohm and Kyle Schwarber each went deep, and McCarthy couldn’t contain his excitement on the call: "Elmo wished for a home run, and he got one!" It was the kind of moment that makes baseball magical, especially for a young fan (or a furry, red one).

The fun didn’t stop there. McCarthy playfully noted the Phillies were facing the Rockies, asking, "You like rocks." Elmo’s response was a delightful curveball: "Well. Not really. You see, there’s a whole thing with a rock called Rocco." He was referring to the viral internet sensation of a pet rock that’s been driving him crazy. "It drives Elmo crazy! But Elmo likes the Rockies. It’s okay. The team’s okay." It turns out Elmo’s beef with Rocco doesn’t extend to Colorado’s baseball club.

At one point, Elmo turned to Kruk and asked, "Is that right, John?" The former MLB All-Star, known for his dry wit, shot back, "Boy, that’s a lot of thinking, Elmo." It was a charming exchange that highlighted the lighthearted spirit of the day. Whether you’re a die-hard Phillies fan or just tuning in for the spectacle, this broadcast was a reminder that baseball is at its best when it brings people—and Muppets—together.