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John Dick's avatar

I used to subscribe to mlb.com for radio broadcasts. Listened to Bob Uecker quite a few times, but far and away listened mostly to Vin Scully. It amazed me when I heard for the first time that Vin was alone in the booth. The broadcasts were so full and delightful. He will be missed more than words can express.

Andross444's avatar

I read that final section hearing Vin’s voice as if he was the one calling that game (maybe that was the intent). Great homage, Joe. You managed to capture his cadence and style in your words

Mati Gill's avatar

“And look who’s coming up!….” To set the stage for Kirk Gibson

Then staying quiet after the home run cleared the fence. To let the moment speak for itself.

Artistry

RIP Vin

Davel1998's avatar

The best yet written

BBE's avatar

I heard him call the Aaron HR and he was in my baseball life from then on

What a ride

Erik Lundegaard's avatar

"... joy just coming off him like sparks."

Beautiful.

Philip Matsikoudis's avatar

I like the manner in which you used the juxtaposition of Pitchers posing as an emblematic metaphor of the progression of Vin Scully's storied career encased in an At Bat. He reached for the moon, and he most definitely landed on it as arguably (some would say there is no argument) the greatest Baseball Announcer of All-Time. He had a good mentor in Red Barber. I guess they are both sharing the Catbird seat now.

Jeff Hilzinger's avatar

Dammit Joe, why do you always make me cry? Was it just me or did anyone else read that with Vin Scully’s voice in their head? Beautiful Joe, just beautiful!

Ron White's avatar

Glorious words for absolute genius of an announcer. Yet, still, an “indescribable, wondrous, breathtaking soul of a man!”

The greatest announcer that ever was…and will be…! Yet, still, a better, extraordinary human being!

Heaven is listening to a ballgame this evening and we all know who everyone is listening to (with their eyes closed and their respective souls captivated once more!!!

Matt J.'s avatar

Bumgarner scowls as Vin rounds the bases...."Don't look at me!"

The benches clear as Vin just stares into Bumgarner's soul and forgives him, as God would forgive a sinner. Bumgarner, visibly shaken up, urges his teammates to join him to sit in a circle as they recite the Lord's prayer. All is right with the world.

David McCann's avatar

I cried. Thank you Joe -- I mean it.

Shedd's avatar

Scully shakes his head like he remembers a time when you couldn't throw a fastball by him.

Perfect

Bill Dibble's avatar

A wonderful article, Joe, for a wonderful man!

Sam R's avatar

Love that this was written as Vin would call a game. Makes it very easy to hear his voice in my head (the work of a very gifted writer).

As Buck would say, “There’s nothing sad about a man living [ninety four] years…the man lived a good life.” Rest In Peace.

Andy Gee's avatar

I’m not crying. You’re crying.

Bruce Ward's avatar

I grew up in Southern California in the 70s. There is simply no way to describe the impact that Vin Scully had on my love for baseball. In the 70s in SoCal, Vin WAS baseball. Radio, TV, national games, Vin's voice was at all of them. He was the best of the best, and always will be.