Per Phillies President, David Montgomery, "We lost our voice today."

Consummate professional, and beloved in a way few others were, or will be, in Philly.

I'm sure I'm not the only Phils fan who has had the pleasure of falling asleep to Kalas' distinctive voice many, many a summer night ...



... only to be woken up later that same night, by that same baritone voice, which is much louder now, and definitely more urgent, and up a couple octaves -- no, he's full-out yelling now -- so loud it's causing my tinny clock radio to crackle like a fire:

"It's a looooooong drive, to deep, center field!!! That ball is OUUUUUTTTTAA HHEEEEEEEEEERRREE......"

1 For the rest of the world.
Five if you are within media shot of Philadelphia.

The voice of the franchise for four decades. Classic baseball announcer who was a legend who didn't act like one. I can understand (and expect) lower ratings from those out-of-market but this is one local guy who made a big splash with many people. You'll be missed, Harry.

"It's outta here. . ."

I really didn't know who he was, but I can understand that this might be a shock for those from Philly. Baseball radio guys are special, because they usually belong to a town like few other personalities do. A guy like Kalas has been there for a long time, and I'm sure it will be hard for Philly sports fans to listen to a game without his voice.