Hall of Fame Seattle Mariners broadcaster Dave Niehaus passed away 10 years ago today
There was something special about Dave Niehaus. His raspy voice, the way he called the game, and the energy he provided. Niehaus was one of a kind and something I will always remember as a fan. I am grateful that I was able to listen to Niehaus commentate on the television or on the radio because the next generation will not have the opportunity to listen to him live.
It has been 10 years since Niehaus passed away and left a huge dent in Mariners fan’s hearts. Niehaus started his broadcasting career with Seattle in 1977. Amazingly, he was the voice of the Mariners for 34 seasons. His final year commentating was in 2010.
Dave Niehaus calls the Seattle Mariners game in 1977 at the Kingdome.
Fans will remember his “My oh my” call in 1995 when Ken Griffey Jr. came around to score in the ALDS. Or his “It will fly away” saying after a home run. Niehaus was able to bring excitement to Mariners listeners especially when times were hard.
Niehaus was rightfully inducted into the Seattle Mariners Hall of Fame in 2000. And in 2008, he was inducted into the broadcasters’ wing of the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Niehaus was the first to represent the Mariners in Cooperstown. Ken Griffey Jr. and Edgar Martinez joined Niehaus in Cooperstown later.
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Niehaus also received recognition from the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association for the state of Washington in 1995, and in 1996. The Hall of Fame commentator was also honored by the Washington State House of Representatives for his “contributions to the quality of life in the Pacific Northwest.” And in 2008, Niehaus received the Ford C. Frick Award.
Niehaus’ awards do not quite capture the importance of Niehaus and his impact on Seattle baseball. His legacy will live on forever. Seattle fans will have a great way of honoring and remembering him in right field where his statue is.