Longtime Phillies Broadcaster Harry Kalas Dies at Age 73

I’m not a Phillies fan, but I remember listening to Phillies games just to hear Harry Kalas describe what I couldn’t see. Harry Kalas died today after collapsing in the commentators booth before the Washington Nationals home opener. There’s no question his incomparable talent affected my writing style. It wasn’t merely his distinctive voice. It was his measure of knowledge, wisdom and professionalism that drew any fan of the sport into his world and gave them comfort like no other. He was a Phillies radio and TV broadcaster for 38 years and was the master of ceremony when old Veteran’s Stadium opened in 1971…replacing another great in Bill Campbell. Many of the legends are beginning to die off, thus creating a void the sport most likely will never recover from. I remember hanging out with the fellas, grilling steaks, having a couple brews and feeling almost as if we were at the game simply because of Mr. Kalas. He made the steaks taste that much better. Maybe his huge spirit helped push the Phillies to the 2008 World Series title after so many years of not living up to potential or just having bad teams. He made another World Series Championship winning call in 1980 as well. Among his signature calls were “Struck ‘im out! and It’s waaaaaay outta here!” His most memorable call was most likely Michael Jack Schmidt’s 500th home run. Thanks for you greatness Mr. Kalas, you’ve been a gift to the city and went out the best way possible, on top. Send to Facebook