Ernie Harwell's Definition of Baseball
4 minutes
In this 1990 audio clip, the renowned broadcaster Ernie Harwell offers a poignant reflection on the essence of baseball, an insight rooted in his personal definition written in 1955 and shared widely through media like The Sporting News. By the year 1990, Harwell had firmly established himself as a venerated voice in baseball, known primarily for his long tenure with the Detroit Tigers, starting from 1960. His reflection, detailed in the clip, isn’t just a look back at the changes in baseball since 1955, but a reaffirmation of the sport's unchanged spirit. It’s a narrative that weaves together the multifaceted aspects of baseball: from the anticipation of the first game of the season, symbolized by the president’s ceremonial pitch, to the universal experiences shared by players and fans alike. Harwell's narration serves as a bridge between generations, encapsulating the timeless appeal of baseball that, despite evolving statistics and players, remains fundamentally the same at heart.
This narrative is not only a testament to Harwell's deep understanding and love for the game but also serves as a historical marker for baseball enthusiasts, capturing the essence of the sport's enduring charm and its impact on American culture. His words paint a vivid picture that resonates with anyone who has ever picked up a bat, tossed a ball, or cheered from the stands or the living room. Harwell's description goes beyond the diamond, touching on the human elements that make baseball "a game for boys and for men," highlighting its role as a mirror of society, where "democracy shines its clearest."
🎙️
F i l t e r & S o r t Filter & Sort
4 minutes
May 4, 2010
During broadcast of a game on the air., legendary broadcaster Vin Scully pays tribute to...
Vin Scully tribute to Ernie Harwell / During broadcast of a game on the air., legendary broadcaster Vin Scully pays tribute to his contemporary Ernie Harwell after hearing of the passing of the great Detroit Tigers announcer
In 2006, Ernie Harwell, a legendary figure in sports broadcasting, shared his reflections on his...
Ernie Harwell - Signature Calls - Radio Interview Part 8 of 8 / In 2006, Ernie Harwell, a legendary figure in sports broadcasting, shared his reflections on his illustrious career during a radio interview. By this time, Harwell had become a beloved voice in baseball, particularly known for his long tenure with the Detroit Tigers, which began in 1960. His career spanned more than five decades, during which he became renowned for his distinctive and warm broadcasting style. Harwell's signature calls and ability to connect with listeners made him an integral part of the baseball experience for fans, not just in Detroit but across the country. This interview is part of a series that delves into his memorable moments and the impact he had on baseball broadcasting.
Harwell's career was marked by numerous accolades, including his induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1981 as the recipient of the Ford C. Frick Award. Known for his folksy charm and deep love for the game, Harwell's broadcasts often felt like conversations with an old friend. His ability to paint vivid pictures with words and his consistent presence made him a cherished figure in the world of sports media. This clip, being the final part of an eight-part series, offers listeners a chance to hear Harwell reflect on his journey and the signature calls that endeared him to generations of baseball fans.
8 minutes
Oct 4, 1987Oct 4, 1987
Ernie Harwell calls the final inning as Detroit clinches the division in a 1–0 victory over Toronto in front of
Detroit Tigers Clinch 1987 AL East / Ernie Harwell calls the final inning as Detroit clinches the division in a 1–0 victory over Toronto in front of 51,005 fans at Tiger Stadium on Sunday afternoon, October 4. Frank Tanana pitched a complete game shutout, and outfielder Larry Herndon hit a second-inning solo home run for the game's only run.
6 minutes
Apr 15, 1983
Ernie Harwell calls the bottom of the 9th when Milt Wilcox came within one out of a perfect game before
Radio call of Milt Wilcox's near perfect game / Ernie Harwell calls the bottom of the 9th when Milt Wilcox came within one out of a perfect game before Chicago White Sox batter Jerry Hairston, Sr. singled off him in the ninth inning
3 hours
Apr 11, 1978Apr 11, 1978
On a crisp evening at Arlington Stadium on April 11, 1978, the Detroit Tigers faced...
1978 Detroit Tigers vs Texas Rangers - Radio Broadcast / On a crisp evening at Arlington Stadium on April 11, 1978, the Detroit Tigers faced the Texas Rangers in what promised to be a compelling matchup. The Tigers, with Dave Rozema on the mound, were looking to capitalize early in the season against the Rangers, who countered with starter Doc Medich. Both teams were eager to set the tone for their respective seasons, each carrying aspirations of climbing their division standings. The Rangers, with a lineup that blended speed and power, aimed to leverage their home-field advantage to overcome the visiting Tigers.
The game began quietly, with both teams held scoreless through the first three innings. The Tigers broke through first in the fourth inning, signaling a shift in momentum, as they capitalized on key hits and a crucial double by Milt May that brought in two runs. The fifth inning proved pivotal, with the Tigers extending their lead by four runs, highlighted by a three-run homer from May that decisively swung the game in Detroit's favor. Texas struggled to respond, managing only a solo home run by Richie Zisk in the ninth inning, which was too little too late.
Detroit's victory was marked by effective pitching from Rozema, who went the distance, allowing just two runs on six hits while the team's defense turned in a solid performance despite an error. The Tigers' offense was led by strong performances from Ron LeFlore and Rusty Staub, providing the necessary run support. This game was indicative of the challenges Texas faced early in the season, struggling to convert opportunities into runs. For Detroit, the win was a positive step in building momentum as they aimed to be competitive in their division.
2 hours
May 17, 1977May 17, 1977
On May 17, 1977, under the lights of Arlington Stadium, the Texas Rangers hosted the...
1977 Detroit Tigers vs Texas Rangers - Radio Broadcast / On May 17, 1977, under the lights of Arlington Stadium, the Texas Rangers hosted the Detroit Tigers in a matchup that featured two teams navigating through the early part of the MLB season. The Rangers, aiming to build momentum, sent Doyle Alexander to the mound, a pitcher known for his durability and craftiness. The Tigers countered with Dave Rozema, a promising young arm seeking to establish himself in the league. This game came at a time when both teams were looking to assert themselves in their respective divisions, with the Rangers and Tigers both harboring aspirations of climbing the standings as the season progressed.
The game's early innings set the tone for a closely contested battle. The Tigers struck first, scoring a run in the opening frame, hinting at a potentially offensive showdown. However, Alexander settled in for Texas, effectively silencing the Tigers' bats as the game moved forward. The Rangers responded in the third inning, capitalizing on Rozema's mistakes to take a lead they would not relinquish.
Ultimately, the Rangers emerged victorious with a 3-1 win, a testament to their pitching strength and strategic execution on the field. Doyle Alexander's complete game highlighted his importance to the Rangers, as he navigated through the Tigers' lineup with precision. This victory for Texas was reflective of their season's aspirations, aiming to be competitive in a tough division. For the Tigers, the game underscored the challenges of capitalizing on scoring opportunities, a theme they would look to address as the season continued.
2½ hours
Sep 17, 1968Sep 17, 1968
On Tuesday, September 17, 1968, the Detroit Tigers hosted the New York Yankees at Tiger...
New York Yankees vs Detroit Tigers - Clincher - Radio Broadcast / On Tuesday, September 17, 1968, the Detroit Tigers hosted the New York Yankees at Tiger Stadium. Stan Bahnsen took the mound for the Yankees, while Joe Sparma was the starting pitcher for the Tigers. At this point in the season, the Tigers were on the brink of clinching the pennant, leading the American League, while the Yankees were struggling, sitting in the middle of the pack. Mickey Mantle, a perennial star for the Yankees, was nearing the end of his illustrious career, and the 1968 season was notable for the "Year of the Pitcher," with pitchers dominating hitters to an extent not seen in decades.
2 minutes
Sep 14, 1968Sep 14, 1968
Ernie Harwell with the radio call as Detroit Tigers pitcher Denny McLain wins 30 for...
Ernie Harwell Calls Denny McLain 30th Win / Ernie Harwell with the radio call as Detroit Tigers pitcher Denny McLain wins 30 for the season on September 14, 1968...more info at https://www.retroseasons.com/teams/detroit-tigers/1968/overview/
21 minutes
1952–1954
In this audio clip from 2006, legendary baseball broadcaster Ernie Harwell reflects on his early...
Ernie Harwell - Early Radio Days - Radio Interview Part 2 of 8 / In this audio clip from 2006, legendary baseball broadcaster Ernie Harwell reflects on his early days in radio, marking a nostalgic journey back to the roots of his illustrious career. The interview showcases Harwell's humble beginnings and his ascent to becoming one of baseball's most revered voices. The year 2006 situates this interview towards the end of Harwell's life, providing a poignant look back at a career that spanned over half a century, during which Harwell became synonymous with Detroit Tigers' baseball. The interviewer engages Harwell in a discussion that illuminates the broadcaster's early challenges and successes, giving listeners an intimate glimpse into the formative years of his professional life. This context is especially significant considering Harwell's passing in 2010, making the clip a valuable piece of historical audio that preserves the memory of a beloved figure in sports broadcasting.
29 minutes
1951–1959
In this 2006 audio segment, Ernie Harwell, the legendary voice of baseball, shares his experiences...
Ernie Harwell - 1950s Giants and Orioles - Radio Interview Part 4 of 8 / In this 2006 audio segment, Ernie Harwell, the legendary voice of baseball, shares his experiences from his early broadcasting career with the New York Giants and the Baltimore Orioles, prior to his iconic tenure with the Detroit Tigers. Known for his warm, eloquent delivery and deep connection with baseball fans, Harwell’s recounting of his time with these two teams offers a rare insight into the formative years of his illustrious career. The clip provides a glimpse into Major League Baseball during the mid-20th century, through the eyes of one of its most eloquent narrators. At this point, Harwell had been retired, yet his narratives and memories continued to resonate with a sense of timelessness and passion for the game.
Reflecting on the period before he became synonymous with Detroit baseball, Harwell discusses the distinct atmospheres, key players, and memorable games associated with the Giants and Orioles. His tenure with these teams laid the foundation for a broadcasting career that would endear him to millions of fans and leave an indelible mark on the sport. This segment is not just a trip down memory lane but a masterclass in the history and evolution of baseball broadcasting. It showcases the early stages of a career that would profoundly influence how the sport was experienced by fans around the world.
23 minutes
Apr 1, 2006
In this 2006 interview, legendary broadcaster Ernie Harwell reflects on his early career, notably his...
Ernie Harwell - Brooklyn Dodgers - Radio Interview Part 3 of 8 / In this 2006 interview, legendary broadcaster Ernie Harwell reflects on his early career, notably his time with the Brooklyn Dodgers. Before becoming synonymous with the Detroit Tigers, Harwell's distinctive voice and keen insights graced Dodgers broadcasts, providing fans with vivid descriptions and memorable moments from the games. This segment offers a unique look into Harwell's contributions to baseball history and the narrative of one of the sport's most storied franchises during its Brooklyn era.
23 minutes
1934–1944
In this 2006 audio clip, the legendary baseball broadcaster Ernie Harwell delves into the origins...
Ernie Harwell - Where Did It All Begin - Radio Interview Part 1 of 8 / In this 2006 audio clip, the legendary baseball broadcaster Ernie Harwell delves into the origins of his illustrious career, providing listeners with insights into how it all began for him. By 2006, Harwell had retired from his regular broadcasting duties but remained a revered figure in baseball, known for his warm voice and insightful commentary that had accompanied Detroit Tigers fans for decades. His career spanned over 55 years, making him one of the most enduring voices in the history of the sport. In this interview, Harwell reflects on his early days, providing a personal glimpse into the journey that led him to become a beloved figure in baseball broadcasting.
The interview serves as a valuable historical document, offering perspectives on the changes and constants in baseball over the years. Harwell's recounting of his beginnings, combined with the wisdom of his years, provides a unique narrative that bridges multiple generations of baseball fans. Given the year of the interview, it comes at a time when Harwell had observed numerous transformations within the sport and its broadcasting, making his insights particularly poignant.