Death Of A "Porn Stache"

Earlier this week, the Philadelphia Phillies designated catcher Sal Fasano for assignment. The next day, he was traded to the New York Yankees for a minor league infielder. This is significant because Fasano was definitely a throwback.

But not the kind of throwback you'd think of. He had one of the best moustaches in sports, a retro-'70s, "porn stache."(For those not understanding what that is: "porn stache" is a slang term meaning a moustache like the ones made famous by the porno stars of the 1970s.) Fasano was never a great player, as he's bounced around to many teams over his career. But he gained a cult following in Philadelphia, as his moustache and long hair, combined with his "everyman" persona, clicked with the Phillies fans. A group of Philadelphia fans formed "Sal's Pals," and wore fake handlebar moustaches and put up a big banner at Citizens Bank Park for him. Sal was so touched by their support that he once sent the group of fans free pizzas during a game.

But once Mike Lieberthal returned from the DL, Fasano's days in Philly were numbered. His first game with the Yankees was last night in Texas, and the "handlebars" in his moustache were gone (although the rest of his stash was still intact). The Yankees have that rule about facial hair, and won't allow the type of moustache that gained Fasano popularity in Philadelphia. He also had to cut his hair, as it was way too long for the Yankees and their corporate, stuffed-shirt image.

I would guess the picture above with the Yankees hat is one of those "ESPN" creations. It is clearly a picture of Fasano when he was on the Phillies, with the Yankees hat and uniform superimposed on him. (Note: I found this far better picture and used it instead of the two blurry ones I used last night.)

I'd wish Sal all the best, but you know where his new address is. I guess the Phillies fans will have to find a new cult figure to latch on to.