Harwell joined the Detroit Tigers' broadcast crew in 1960, replacing Van Patrick after the latter was dismissed owing to a sponsorship change. George Kell, who had begun calling Tigers games with Patrick the year before, and had previously played for the Orioles in 1956–57 while Harwell was announcing their games, was instrumental in bringing Harwell to Detroit. "George called and said, 'I recommended you and the Tigers asked me to get in touch with you.'" Harwell said. "I came and that was it."
Harwell shared TV and radio duties with Kell through 1963, then with Bob Scheffing in 1964. He began working radio exclusively in 1965, teaming with Gene Osborn for two seasons and then with Ray Lane from 1967 to 1972. Paul Carey replaced Lane in 1973, joining Harwell to form the Tigers' best-known and longest-lasting radio team, which lasted until the end of the 1991 season. Harwell gained a large following outside of Detroit because the Tigers aired their games on WJR, a 50,000-watt station that reached most of the eastern half of North America at night.
On December 19, 1990, the Tigers and WJR announced that the station wanted to go in a "new direction" and that the 1991 season would be Harwell's last, as his contract was "non-renewed". Carey then announced that he had already planned to retire after the 1991 season, and that the decision was unrelated to Harwell's contract situation. Fans across Michigan and throughout the baseball world were outraged, but the ballclub and the radio station (who eventually wound up blaming each other for the decision) stood firm: "[Harwell's situation is] not going to change no matter how much clamor is made over it," said team president Bo Schembechler. The situation caused outrage so much that some made threats of violence against Schembechler. Some, such as Mitch Albom, blamed the situation causing as much negative feeling as it did on WJR executive Jim Long who was the one who pushed the quick, no severance pay removal of Harwell. The movement in favor of keeping Harwell was so strong that even billboards in favor of his remaining were put up. Rick Rizzs was hired away from the Seattle Mariners to replace Harwell in 1992, teaming with Bob Rathbun.
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May 4, 2010
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1990
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Ernie Harwell's Definition of Baseball / In this 1990 audio clip, the renowned broadcaster Ernie Harwell offers a poignant reflection on the essence of baseball, an insight rooted in his personal definition written in 1955 and shared widely through media like The Sporting News. By the year 1990, Harwell had firmly established himself as a venerated voice in baseball, known primarily for his long tenure with the Detroit Tigers, starting from 1960. His reflection, detailed in the clip, isn’t just a look back at the changes in baseball since 1955, but a reaffirmation of the sport's unchanged spirit. It’s a narrative that weaves together the multifaceted aspects of baseball: from the anticipation of the first game of the season, symbolized by the president’s ceremonial pitch, to the universal experiences shared by players and fans alike. Harwell's narration serves as a bridge between generations, encapsulating the timeless appeal of baseball that, despite evolving statistics and players, remains fundamentally the same at heart.
This narrative is not only a testament to Harwell's deep understanding and love for the game but also serves as a historical marker for baseball enthusiasts, capturing the essence of the sport's enduring charm and its impact on American culture. His words paint a vivid picture that resonates with anyone who has ever picked up a bat, tossed a ball, or cheered from the stands or the living room. Harwell's description goes beyond the diamond, touching on the human elements that make baseball "a game for boys and for men," highlighting its role as a mirror of society, where "democracy shines its clearest."
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Oct 4, 1987Oct 4, 1987
Ernie Harwell calls the final inning as Detroit clinches the division in a 1–0 victory over Toronto in front of
Detroit Tigers Clinch 1987 AL East / Ernie Harwell calls the final inning as Detroit clinches the division in a 1–0 victory over Toronto in front of 51,005 fans at Tiger Stadium on Sunday afternoon, October 4. Frank Tanana pitched a complete game shutout, and outfielder Larry Herndon hit a second-inning solo home run for the game's only run.
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Apr 15, 1983
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3 hours
Apr 11, 1978Apr 11, 1978
On a crisp evening at Arlington Stadium on April 11, 1978, the Detroit Tigers faced...
1978 Detroit Tigers vs Texas Rangers - Radio Broadcast / On a crisp evening at Arlington Stadium on April 11, 1978, the Detroit Tigers faced the Texas Rangers in what promised to be a compelling matchup. The Tigers, with Dave Rozema on the mound, were looking to capitalize early in the season against the Rangers, who countered with starter Doc Medich. Both teams were eager to set the tone for their respective seasons, each carrying aspirations of climbing their division standings. The Rangers, with a lineup that blended speed and power, aimed to leverage their home-field advantage to overcome the visiting Tigers.
The game began quietly, with both teams held scoreless through the first three innings. The Tigers broke through first in the fourth inning, signaling a shift in momentum, as they capitalized on key hits and a crucial double by Milt May that brought in two runs. The fifth inning proved pivotal, with the Tigers extending their lead by four runs, highlighted by a three-run homer from May that decisively swung the game in Detroit's favor. Texas struggled to respond, managing only a solo home run by Richie Zisk in the ninth inning, which was too little too late.
Detroit's victory was marked by effective pitching from Rozema, who went the distance, allowing just two runs on six hits while the team's defense turned in a solid performance despite an error. The Tigers' offense was led by strong performances from Ron LeFlore and Rusty Staub, providing the necessary run support. This game was indicative of the challenges Texas faced early in the season, struggling to convert opportunities into runs. For Detroit, the win was a positive step in building momentum as they aimed to be competitive in their division.
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May 17, 1977May 17, 1977
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1977 Detroit Tigers vs Texas Rangers - Radio Broadcast / On May 17, 1977, under the lights of Arlington Stadium, the Texas Rangers hosted the Detroit Tigers in a matchup that featured two teams navigating through the early part of the MLB season. The Rangers, aiming to build momentum, sent Doyle Alexander to the mound, a pitcher known for his durability and craftiness. The Tigers countered with Dave Rozema, a promising young arm seeking to establish himself in the league. This game came at a time when both teams were looking to assert themselves in their respective divisions, with the Rangers and Tigers both harboring aspirations of climbing the standings as the season progressed.
The game's early innings set the tone for a closely contested battle. The Tigers struck first, scoring a run in the opening frame, hinting at a potentially offensive showdown. However, Alexander settled in for Texas, effectively silencing the Tigers' bats as the game moved forward. The Rangers responded in the third inning, capitalizing on Rozema's mistakes to take a lead they would not relinquish.
Ultimately, the Rangers emerged victorious with a 3-1 win, a testament to their pitching strength and strategic execution on the field. Doyle Alexander's complete game highlighted his importance to the Rangers, as he navigated through the Tigers' lineup with precision. This victory for Texas was reflective of their season's aspirations, aiming to be competitive in a tough division. For the Tigers, the game underscored the challenges of capitalizing on scoring opportunities, a theme they would look to address as the season continued.
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Sep 17, 1968Sep 17, 1968
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New York Yankees vs Detroit Tigers - Clincher - Radio Broadcast / On Tuesday, September 17, 1968, the Detroit Tigers hosted the New York Yankees at Tiger Stadium. Stan Bahnsen took the mound for the Yankees, while Joe Sparma was the starting pitcher for the Tigers. At this point in the season, the Tigers were on the brink of clinching the pennant, leading the American League, while the Yankees were struggling, sitting in the middle of the pack. Mickey Mantle, a perennial star for the Yankees, was nearing the end of his illustrious career, and the 1968 season was notable for the "Year of the Pitcher," with pitchers dominating hitters to an extent not seen in decades.
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Sep 14, 1968Sep 14, 1968
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1952–1954
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Ernie Harwell - Early Radio Days - Radio Interview Part 2 of 8 / In this audio clip from 2006, legendary baseball broadcaster Ernie Harwell reflects on his early days in radio, marking a nostalgic journey back to the roots of his illustrious career. The interview showcases Harwell's humble beginnings and his ascent to becoming one of baseball's most revered voices. The year 2006 situates this interview towards the end of Harwell's life, providing a poignant look back at a career that spanned over half a century, during which Harwell became synonymous with Detroit Tigers' baseball. The interviewer engages Harwell in a discussion that illuminates the broadcaster's early challenges and successes, giving listeners an intimate glimpse into the formative years of his professional life. This context is especially significant considering Harwell's passing in 2010, making the clip a valuable piece of historical audio that preserves the memory of a beloved figure in sports broadcasting.
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Apr 1, 2006
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Ernie Harwell - Brooklyn Dodgers - Radio Interview Part 3 of 8 / In this 2006 interview, legendary broadcaster Ernie Harwell reflects on his early career, notably his time with the Brooklyn Dodgers. Before becoming synonymous with the Detroit Tigers, Harwell's distinctive voice and keen insights graced Dodgers broadcasts, providing fans with vivid descriptions and memorable moments from the games. This segment offers a unique look into Harwell's contributions to baseball history and the narrative of one of the sport's most storied franchises during its Brooklyn era.
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1934–1944
In this 2006 audio clip, the legendary baseball broadcaster Ernie Harwell delves into the origins...
Ernie Harwell - Where Did It All Begin - Radio Interview Part 1 of 8 / In this 2006 audio clip, the legendary baseball broadcaster Ernie Harwell delves into the origins of his illustrious career, providing listeners with insights into how it all began for him. By 2006, Harwell had retired from his regular broadcasting duties but remained a revered figure in baseball, known for his warm voice and insightful commentary that had accompanied Detroit Tigers fans for decades. His career spanned over 55 years, making him one of the most enduring voices in the history of the sport. In this interview, Harwell reflects on his early days, providing a personal glimpse into the journey that led him to become a beloved figure in baseball broadcasting.
The interview serves as a valuable historical document, offering perspectives on the changes and constants in baseball over the years. Harwell's recounting of his beginnings, combined with the wisdom of his years, provides a unique narrative that bridges multiple generations of baseball fans. Given the year of the interview, it comes at a time when Harwell had observed numerous transformations within the sport and its broadcasting, making his insights particularly poignant.