It was a sad day for baseball yesterday as two legends passed away, former Detroit Tigers pitcher Mark Fidrych and Philadelphia Phillies announcer Harry Kalas.
Harry Kalas (1936-2009)- Harry Kalas was the legendary play by play man of the Philadelphia Phillies. Kalas had the difficult task of replacing another legend in the Philadelphia broadcasting booth, Bill Campbell.
However, Harry's smooth voice and nonchalant style was a instant hit for Phillies fans along with his memorable home run calls ("Swing...and a long drive, watch this baby, outta here!). Kalas threw out the opening day pitch this year when the Phillies received their World Series rings.
Harry was also the voice of NFL Films from 1975-2009 and was a frequent contributor to the Showtime show, Inside the NFL.
Harry Kalas collapsed in the press box yesterday where he was set to call a game between the Washington Nationals and the Philadelphia Phillies. He was taken to the hospital but was pronounced dead hours later. Harry Kalas was 73.
Mark Fidrych (1954-2009)- Former Detroit Tigers pitcher Mark "The Bird" Fidrych is known as one of the most colorful character in baseball during the 1970's. Fidrych was beloved in Detroit for his rather interesting antics while on the hill for the Tigers where he had a pension for talking to his glove and celebrating after a key strike-out.
Fidrych won the American League Rookie of the Year in 1976; posting a 19 win season along with a 2.34 ERA. As a rookie, he was also named to the American League All Star team. Although injuries cut short Fidrych career, he is still known as one of the best pitchers to ever don a Detroit Tigers uniform.
Fidrych was pronounced dead yesterday after being thrown from a ten wheel truck while working on his farm in Massachusetts. Fidrych was 54.
In Memoriam: Harry Kalas and Mark "The Bird" Fidrych
