Phillies’ Matt Strahm Owns Nicolas Cage Likeness by Designing a Custom Glove with Nod to “National Treasure”

Philadelphia Phillies pitcher, Matt Strahm, has fully embraced the comparison to Hollywood actor Nicolas Cage by commissioning a custom glove inspired by the famous meme that highlights their uncanny resemblance. The memes comparing Strahm to Cage went viral following the 2023 National League Division Series, overshadowing the pitcher’s on-field performance. Now, two years later, Strahm has taken the comparison to the next level by designing a glove featuring an homage to Cage’s character in the movie “National Treasure.”

The custom glove created for Strahm showcases the Declaration of Independence, a pivotal element in Cage’s role as Benjamin Franklin Gates in the action-adventure film. In a light-hearted manner, Strahm joked, “I stole it, then made a glove out of it,” showcasing his sense of humour about the widely circulated Doppelgänger memes. The stylised glove, which prominently features elements from the historic document, was shared by The Athletic’s Matt Gelb, garnering attention and praise from fans across social media platforms.

With almost 200,000 views on Gelb’s post, Strahm’s playful nod to Cage and the iconic movie line “I’m going to steal the Declaration of Independence” has captivated fans and media alike. Despite the humour surrounding the comparison, Strahm has received an outpouring of support from fans who appreciate the creativity and light-hearted spirit he brings to the game. The unique design of the glove, with cursive lettering against a white background reminiscent of the historic document, has been well-received by many.

While the custom glove has garnered widespread attention and admiration, reports suggest that Strahm may face restrictions on using it during games. According to Major League Baseball Rule 1.15, a pitcher’s glove must adhere to specific guidelines, including restrictions on colour and design. Despite this potential setback, fans continue to show their support for Strahm’s creativity and dedication to embracing the entertaining comparison to Cage, especially considering the historical connection to Philadelphia where the Declaration of Independence was signed.

The ongoing comparison between Strahm and Cage has become a lighthearted source of amusement both on and off the field. In a clip shared by the MLB in 2024, Strahm jokingly recounts the daily reminders of their striking resemblance, highlighting the good-natured banter surrounding the viral comparison. Even the MLB account couldn’t resist poking fun at the similarity, adding to the playful exchange between fans, players, and the wider community of baseball enthusiasts.

As Strahm continues to find humour and camaraderie in the memes comparing him to Nicolas Cage, the custom glove serves as a tangible symbol of his willingness to embrace the unexpected spotlight. Despite the potential limitations on using the glove during official games, the overwhelming support and positive reception from fans underscore the impact of Strahm’s playful tribute to the iconic actor and the enduring legacy of “National Treasure.”