Then tragedy struck.
The moment I learned Harry Kalas had been rushed to the hospital, I immediately felt uneasy. The past indicated serious problems, and frankly, sometimes a bad feeling just knocks your stomach. In minutes I learned Harry’s situation was “serious,” and even faster, I learned the air had left him. Harry was gone. Just like that.
After initial shock, many of us asked,” Could they play a game today?” Well, the Phillies played, and though it started empty, it grew to an offensive explosion, the type of game that seemed untouched by tragedy. The Phillies won — though by the skin of their teeth — fueled more by lackluster Washington pitching than anything else. In a respectful coincidence, the Phils gained a day off Tuesday, a good time to recollect, remember and refuel. They’ll be back at it tonight against the Nationals with, maybe, a bit of the tragedy behind them.
Of course, Harry’s memory won’t be behind them. It will be there at least until the 2009 season departs, and probably, for a long, long time. In a way, then, Harry’s memory makes for an interesting storyline for the rest of the season. Is the repeat campaign now suddenly about winning for Harry (however cliche)? Does the season take on a higher tone now that the voice of the team has left the Earth?
In a season so far hazy from distractions, the Phillies are a solid 4-3. And they’re in fine position to build upon that mark. But the death of Harry Kalas offers, if anything, a defining legacy to the 2009 season. No longer is about repeating and having a target on their backs. Now it’s about pressing on, nodding in respect to a great man, and playing the game the way he would’ve liked it to be played.
