I think when the tarp is laid over Safeco Field for the last time this season come September, 2006 will go down as a "transitional" year. The Mariners will be much closer to the .5oo mark than in the 2 previous seasons. Jamie Moyer will probably depart the good ship and Felix Hernandez will give us plenty of hope for the next few seasons. As we wrap up the All Star Break, I wanted to focus some attention on the Mariner Broadcasting crew.
As in previous seasons, Dave Niehaus does the first 4 1/2 innings on TV and the last 4 1/2 on radio. Rick Rizzs does the first half of the game on radio and the last on TV. Add a couple of "Daves" who alternate and Ron Fairley and you have a crew.
Dave Niehaus: The Mariners original, began announcing games on KVI with Ken Wilson at the inception of the team. One of the best in the business if not the best, he can bring chills with his "My Oh My" in an exciting moment. He will always be the Mariner's living "Sound Bite".
Rick Rizzs: Excellent straightman for Niehaus, although now they seldom work together. A warm voice with just the right touch of inflection. He is a vet, starting with the Mariners in the 8os with a short departure in an ill-fated gig with the Detroit Tigers.
Ron Fairley: He is probably my favorite. He played baseball in the 60s, about the time that I started following the game. His anecdotes bring memories and he is very articulate. Ron works with Rick and Dave on radio.
Dave Henderson: Just a fun guy to listen to. Always happy and pleasant. An ex Mariner. He gained most of his fame as a slugger with the Oakland A's and Boston Red Sox. I guess you have to take the bad with the good.
Dave Valle: My least favorite. He was a popular catcher and an asset to the community. It's just that when he is paired with Rick, you get 2 straightmen and not much insite into the game. His voice is hard to listen to. I always hope that Dave Henderson is on when I watch.
The second half of the season is starting so Let's Go Mariners!
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