Longtime Phillies announcer Harry Kalas dead at 73

PHILADELPHIA (AP)—Harry Kalas stood near the mound, wearing a bright red sportcoat and blowing kisses to adoring fans, ready to deliver the ceremonial first pitch on a day the Philadelphia Phillies received their World Series championship rings.

The Hall of Fame announcer shook his head, pretending to call off the catcher’s sign, blew more kisses, wound up and threw a one-hop strike to Carlos Ruiz before last Wednesday’s game against Atlanta.

It would be the last time Kalas appeared at Citizens Bank Park.


This is a sad day for me. Being born and raised in and around the city of Philadelphia before moving to Florida 6 years ago and an ardent Phillies phan he will be greatly missed. He was a great guy and a Philadelphia icon. He always stuck by the Phils through thick and thin. We will miss ya Harry!

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