Hall of Famers Perry, Brennman remember Niehaus
Nov 11, 2010, 6:53 PM | Updated: Apr 4, 2011, 7:54 pm
By Michael Simeona, MyNorthwest.com intern
The day after learning about the death of one of Seattle’s most beloved sporting icons, today’s show was dedicated to remembering legendary Mariners play-by-play broadcaster Dave Niehaus.
Hall of Fame pitcher Gaylord Perry played for eight different teams over 22 seasons, but no broadcaster had more of an impact on him than Dave Niehaus. Perry signed with the Mariners in 1982 a few wins shy of his 300th career victory. Niehaus was the first to welcome Perry to the team in spring training, where he encouraged Perry to go after the milestone victory.
“Dave was one of the first guys to interview me (in Spring Training) and he made me feel so welcome. (He) just gave me confidence that I could go in and win number 300 right there in Seattle,” Perry said on Thursday’s show.
On May 17, 1982, Perry put a stamp on his major league career by winning his 300th career game at the Kingdome against the New York Yankees. Perry captured the essence that defined Niehaus’ style when asked if he’s listened to the broadcast of that game.
“When the fish aren’t bitin’ and (there’s) snow on the ground, I take that tape out and listen to it and it seems like the sun comes out.”
Cincinnati Reds broadcaster Marty Brennaman can relate to Niehaus’ famed career with the Mariners, as he’s been doing play-by-play for the Reds since 1974. Earlier this year Brennaman visited Niehaus in the broadcast booth during a spring training game, pairing two Hall of Fame play-by-play broadcasters in the same setting (photo above).
“He was just a wonderful guy,” said Brennaman. “He was a guy that loved to laugh, and had a great sense of humor. I just felt blessed that I got a chance to know him in some small way before he passed away.”
Brennaman continued: “In our fraternity we have wonderful thoughts about people like Dave Niehaus. As long as they play baseball in Seattle he’s never going to be replaced. His legacy will live long, long, long after his passing yesterday.”
