A couple of weeks ago was an eventful day for Seattle Mariner fans, especially life-long ones such as myself. Dave Niehaus, the play-by-play announcer for the franchise since it’s inception in 1977, was inducted into the broadcasting wing of the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY.
As “The Voice of the Mariners,” Niehaus is known for his catchphrases which have permeated Seattle baseball for these past 30+ years, including his signature grand slam call, “Get out the rye-bread and mustard grandma, it’s Grand Salami Time!” and his generic exclamation, “My Oh My!” which energized the franchise and fan base in 1995 during the Mariner’s “Refuse to Lose” season, our first time reaching the post season.
Over the years, Niehaus’ game calling skill have begun to wane, but at his prime he was the best in baseball and like any aging slugger, he’s still got some game even today – flashing the occasional exciting call and routinely knocking the commentary out of the park with his knowledge and joy for baseball. Beyond that though, for those of us growing up listening to baseball in the Pacific NW, Dave’s golden voice is what’s become synonymous with baseball for us. Even while reading the box score and recaps online, I tend to hear his voice calling the play-by-play.
Congratulations Dave Niehaus, and to the Mariners’ organization and fan base for (finally) having one of our own inducted in the Hall of Fame.
Ceremony
To honor Niehaus, this last Sunday (8/3) the M’s had a little ceremony presenting him with an award, with special guests and a last-minute giveaway, “Dave Niehaus Bobbleheads.” Naturally, I wanted to go and show my support (and get a bobblehead for the collection). As an added bonus, the M’s actually won a game, the garlic fries were in good form and it was just an all-around great August afternoon to watch a game of catch.
