T HE SON OF LATE, great Phillies broadcaster Harry Kalas has a message for the members of the 2009 Phillies: You are the men!
Todd Kalas, a broadcaster with the Tampa Bay Rays, said he enjoyed watching the Phillies include his dad in their National League East-clinching celebration last week.
The defending World Series champions partied at Citizens Bank Park on Wednesday night after securing their third straight trip to the postseason. In a spontaneous show of class and respect, the team gathered in front of the leftfield billboard that pays tribute to Harry, the beloved Hall of Fame announcer who died last April.
They sprayed the sign with champagne and other beverages. Chase Utley extended a victory cigar, no doubt recalling Harry's famous line that will link them forever: "Chase Utley, you are the man."
It was a moment Todd Kalas said he will always remember.
"I loved it," Todd said. "Dad loved to be the center of attention at a party so it was great that they included him in the celebration.
"This season has been very special and has had a big impact on our family. The players wearing the HK patches . . . taking dad's blue jacket and white shoes with them to all the games, even on the road . . . Jimmy Rollins saying he's going to wear the jacket and shoes if they have another parade. I think dad would be amazed at what's happening."
Todd, whose allegiance, naturally, is to the Rays, said the Phillies are his favorite National League team. And, he's hoping to catch a few playoff games.
"There's a chance I could get to a couple of weekday games," he said. "Being connected with a team in the American League allows me to have a favorite National League team without having a conflict. I've been following the Phillies all season. I think the National League playoffs will be wide open. Any of the four teams could win it all.
"But I would like to see the Phillies repeat as champions."
We have, as Harry would sing, "high hopes" that will happen. And we can't wait to see Jimmy "White Shoes" Rollins leading the parade.
- Tom Mahon
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