Legendary Phillies announcer Harry Kalas, who passed away on Monday after collapsing in the Nationals’ broadcast booth, will be given one more final tribute by the team he covered for so many years.
ESPN’s Sal Paolantonio reports that Kalas’ casket will be put on public display at home plate at Citizens Bank Park. This Saturday starting at 8:45 a.m., fans will be able to file past and pay their respects to the beloved broadcaster. The public viewing will be offered for four hours, after which follows a memorial service.
Such public viewings of departed baseball figures held at ballparks are very rare. In 2002, longtime St. Louis Cardinals announcer Jack Buck was given the same sendoff at Busch Stadium. But prior to that, it hasn’t happened since 1948, when Babe Ruth’s coffin was put on display in Yankee Stadium.
Gates at Citizens Bank Park are scheduled to open at 8 a.m. The Phillies also plan on flying their team flag at half-mast in honor of Harry. And for God’s sakes, let’s hope this doesn’t happen again.







5:08 pm on April 17th, 2009
By coincidence MLB Network will air the Padres-Phillies game Saturday night. The telecast had already been scheduled so this will be a tribute of sorts to Mr. Kalas.
2:36 pm on April 18th, 2009
Still can't believe he's gone. Sucks.