Phils Give Props to HK After Clincher
It was a fitting tribute to the legendary, larger-than-life voice of the Philadelphia Phillies. He will always remain a part of the team, as is witnessed by his blue sports coat and white shoes traveling as part of the team all year.
Following the final out, “High Hopes” blared throughout Citizens Bank Park as another heartwarming reminder that Harry will be with us for the long haul this season, as well as many more to come. And although he is gone, his legacy and passion for the sport still resonates throughout the ballpark, and the city as a whole.
On a side note, I thought the honoring of Harry was fitting. It was reminiscent of how the Angels paid to homage to a teammate they lost earlier in the season, Nick Adenhart. Some believed that by showering the jersey of Adenhart with an alcoholic beverage, it sent the wrong message because of how the young man was killed. Personally, it gave me goose bumps as much as the HK celebration because the Angels acted as if he was there with him; as if he was another human in the clubhouse being sprayed.
In our Tuesday podcast, Scott Franzke said it’s obvious no one will ever be able to replace Kalas, but that he pays his respect to HK by always being prepared and by treating the game with respect. All fans young and old echo that sentiment about respect. Everyone had undying respect for the man, and it was touching to watch the Phillies as a whole thank him for all he did with that quick reminder that he’s always here.
Listening to the games on the radio throughout the postseason just won’t be the same, though Franzke and his cohorts will do their best to conjure up memories of Harry the K. And as we join the Phils on this October trip once again, we will, without question, have Harry in our minds, and hearts. He’s still a part of this team, and no one has forgotten.
