Major league Baseball lost one of its greatest icons today, when legendary Tigers brodcaster Ernie Harwell lost his battle with cancer.
Even though we all knew it was coming it still does not remove the pain that the City of Detroit is going through right now.
Harwell's brodcasting career began in 1943 for the Atlanta Crackers of the Southern Association.
In 1948, Brooklyn Dodgers manager traded catcher Cliff Dapperto the Carckers in exchange for Harwell, making him the only brodcaster in baseball history to be traded.
After he finished with the Dodgers, Harwell would announce for the New York Giants and Baltimore Orioles, and it would not be until 1960 when he begun his four decade tenure as the 'Voice' of Tigers'.
It was here where fans have become accustomed with the southern accent, low-keyed delivery, and conversational style that made it feel like you were just watching the game at the ballpark, while throwing in stories about legendary Tiger players of the past, mostly about Ty Cobb.
Harwell ended his Hall of fame brodcasting career in 2002, but never strayed too far from the ballpark, filling in every now and then and called at least one inning in 2005 All Star Game at Comerica Park, and Game One of the 2006 World Series
For those who were lucky enough to meet him, they always noted his heart of gold, modesty for his obvious fame, and his thanks to God for all that he was given during his lifetime.
While it's sad to lose an icon like Ernie Harwell, we also must be thankful for the all the years that God had given him to us.
Mourn for him yes, but be thankful that he no longer is suffering, and is no doubt enjoying his time with Tiger legends such as Ty Cobb, George Kell, Mark Fidrych, along with many others, on the other side.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=paWJl3qpUIM
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