Furman Bisher

By ken

August 4, 2008 6:07 PM | Link to this

Skip started broadcasting Braves games when I moved my family to Atlanta. The family grew up with his nasal twang and wonderful knowledge and obeservations of the game while we delghted in watching the asprining team.

Red Barber, Mel Allen, Phill Rizzouto and his dad have a front row seat, waiting for him!

Well done, Skip!

Ken Amato Johns Creek, GA

By Baseball Wrap

August 4, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this

Skip Caray was the sound of baseball. He was hot afternoon radio, hotdogs and beer. He was that lazy hazy sound of summer. The perfect voice for radio, with the best delivery I ever heard.

I wonder if he’s interviewing Ty Cobb right now. Shoeless Joe Jackson? The babe. Dimaggio? Lou Gehrig?

With Skip Caray around for all those years, I feel like the luck-luck-luckiest fan fan fan on the face face face of the earth earth earth……

By Jeremy Gough Vadlosta, GA

August 4, 2008 6:28 PM | Link to this

Skip Caray was Braves baseball. I remember Sunday afternoons with Grandma (quite possibly the biggest Braves fan ever) after a hearty lunch and watching the every minute of the game. We would always mock Skip (in a good way) with his infamous voice. The world lost an amazing announcer and his name will go on the list of greats with his father where he belongs. “And remember folks never step on downed power lines.”

By UGA'91

August 4, 2008 6:58 PM | Link to this

Nice article; Skip was an Atlanta institution and he will be missed.

By Dave

August 4, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this

When TBS cut the number of Braves games he was assigned, thousands of people complained and he was brought back. I don’t suppose a letter campaign will work this time.

Dave, from Brookhaven, that never caught a foul ball.

By brocksc

August 4, 2008 7:04 PM | Link to this

I’m sure he can see from his stadium seating chart that the fans from Warner Robins are heart broken today. Go with God, Skip!

By Rob Carpio

August 4, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this

To me, Skip Caray will always be the voice of the Atlanta Braves. As a pre-teen who was new to baseball back in the early 1980s, I learned the many nuances — and stars — of the game by watching coverage of Braves games on WTBS (as it was known back then). Listening to Skip’s TV broadcasts makes up most of my early memories of watching baseball, such as the 1982 Braves team that came out of nowhere to win the NL West. What fun it was to watch them win and to listen to Skip (along with broadcast partner Pete Van Wieren) be the storyteller of such an exciting season to a young baseball fan. Now in my late 30s, I can still hear him calling home runs by everyone from Dale Murphy to Chipper Jones, and strikeouts from Gaylord Perry to Tom Glavine. I’m pretty sure that I’ll never forget the distinct, nasally sound of his voice. Major League Baseball will never be the same without him in the booth.

By CarolinaJacket

August 4, 2008 8:04 PM | Link to this

Skip was a master. To hell with Ted Turner for the low life way he treated the man. One had class, the other ….

By sixfourthree

August 4, 2008 8:21 PM | Link to this

Mr. Bisher,

Sometimes we don’t appreciate the best things in life as well as the best people. It’s so easy to take our family and friends for granted. I took Lewis Grizzard and Skip Caray for granted—-always felt that they would be there tomorrow. Skip will be sorely missed by this fan who has been listening since 1979 or so. He was a classic, genuine person. Mr. Bisher, you are as well. We’re lucky to have you and I cherish each of your columns.

By heybud1508

August 4, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this

Just to clarify, Ted Turner may not have class. I really don’t know one way or the other, but even though the network he started still had (and today has) his name associated with it, Ted Turner was long gone from the company that bought his company (Time-Warner) when Turner Broadcasting decided to bump Pete and Skip to radio four years ago. That decision was not made by Ted Turner.

By ronald

August 4, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this

I have been listening to Skip since he broadcast the Hawks games back in the 1960s. I remember one night doing a hawks/sixers game in Philly, He was being pelted by ice thrown by fans. He commented on it and then said “after all, this is Philadelphia, the city of brotherly love, where they boo your kid when he can’t find an easter egg.” I’ve never forgotten that. The Braves games will not be the same without him. He will always be my favorite announcer for all of the reasons others have mentioned.

I will say this, since the way TBS did him and Pete a few years ago (taking them off of the TV broadcasts for a while) and for their decision not to broadcast Braves games, I say “to you know where with TBS.” I have not watched one minutes worth of broadcasting on TBS since their last Braves broadcast. I vow to never watch that network again unless and until they return to carrying the Braves full time. They fully deserve to have their ratings fall out the bottom of the universe.

By Gary Curtis

August 4, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this

I was in and around Atlanta from 1978 on and became a huge Braves fan and season ticket holder. We went to the majority of the games and always took a radio to listen to the broadcast. It added so much to the game we were watching. Listening to Skip,Pete, Ernie, Dave O’Bian,Joe and Don was like sitting around in a bar and talking baseball with friends. Skip was the voice of the Braves and will never be forgotten. The news of his death makes me extremely sad and, at the same time, makes me remember all the wonderful things he said over the years. There will be a large piece of the baseball puzzle missing in Atlanta. I traveled all over the country in my work as an airline pilot, and listened to a lot of other teams broadcasts. This made me realize that Skip and the guys were the absolute best in the business. He will be missed greatly.

By me

August 4, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this

Great column, Fisher. It will be said when you leave the ajc in a few weeks.

By Philliesuk

August 4, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this

Like many of you, I grew up listening to Skip Caray. He and Ernie Johnson are the two announcers that I will never forget. Some didn’t like his style, but I always loved it. He loved our team.

By SadBravesFan

August 4, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this

In the old days, WTCG and later TBS would rebroadcast the games later that night. Oh, but don’t we all wish we could hear just one more game from Skip.

By sunshine and thunder

August 4, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this

He called ‘em as he saw ‘em, did Skip Caray.

By Rick Marcin

August 4, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this

After listening to Ernie Harwell in Detroit for so long I did not think I could enjoy another broadcaster as much. I sat bext to Skip at a Hawks game long ago and never enjoyed talking sports as much as I did that day. Skip you will always be in the fans HALL of FAME.

By Jody Snow

August 4, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this

My heart is broken tonight, hearing of Skip’s death. I grew up watching the Braves on an old black and white TV that only got a few channels. I loved the Braves, even when they were the worst. Skip was always my favorite and I stayed up late many a summer night watching and listening. Another piece of my childhood is gone, rest in peace Skip.

By Skip Fan

August 4, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this

I grew up listening to Skip and the Braves. I still remember driving around as a teenager with Skip calling the games in our runs to the playoffs and I also remember the games where the playoffs were for the other teams.

It would figure that the night where the heat was high and the humidity even higher Skip moved on. It couldn’t have been more symbolic of the dog days of summer and baseball in the South.

Best wishes to the Caray’s.

By NumbaOneFan

August 4, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this

Today is a very sad day indeed. I have lived in Atlanta since 1964 and I have very fond memories of Skip Carey, a true professional who loved what he did and loved the people around him. Remember Skip from the early days of Hawks games and even on the old WTCG Braves games. Hisknowledga and genuine love of the game and puched through even the most boring of Braves games when they would always finish in 4th place or worst. I can tell you that ever since the Braves broke up the team of Skip, Ernie, Don and Pete, I have not eveen watched one game. It just doesn’t semm right that those four gentlemen are no longer together. Skip… you were loved and respected by many, your humor and entertaining stories during broadcasts were and will always be with us. As Skip would say “There’s a drive and no one is gonna catch up to that one. God Bless you Skip, you did it your way and it was the right way.

By Drexel Gal

August 4, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this

Skip and his wife got to celebrate their wedding anniversary in the last year of his life. Rare, because they were married on the most rare day of all … February 29th, of 1976. (For the benefit of those of you who were educated at UGA, February 29th is rare because it occurs only during “leap” years, which are generally every four years.)

By Matt the Brave

August 4, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this

Bisher, you again show that you are the master of the obits (and I mean that in the nicest way that I possibly can). I read about you in Lewis Grizzard’s book, “If I Ever Get Back to Georgia, I’m Going to Nail My Feet to the Ground.” He stated that you were more often right than wrong, and I can see why he said that. I hope that we have you around still for a long time.

One personal question…are you going to drop by the booth at the UGA game this season to talk to Larry Munson? I love it when y’all get a chance to talk to one another on the air to hear some of the old stories. :)

By Troothsayer

August 4, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this

Good job, Mr. Bisher. Too bad that Sportsouth had to thumb him in the eye by not showing the moment of silence before the San Francisco game tonight. I find it despicable.

By Billy C Matthews

August 4, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this

We remember watching Skip for the first time on televsion in 1968 when the Hawks were about to play the then San Diego Rockets. We were also glad to see him come over to the Braves, and do the games later. We will miss you Skip!!!!

By lostintime

August 4, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this

Growing up in a small town without cable, radio was the only way to follow the braves I still remember Ernie , Skip and Pete. As I grew older I remmeber trips into town with my dad to watch the braves on TBS with an Uncle. I grew up with Skip, Ernie and Pete.

As a friend of mine put it today, a piece of our childhood passed yesterday.

With all respect to the current TV team, give me Pete and Skip on radio or give me Pete and Skip for 4 1/2 innings on TV and Don and Joe for 4 1/2 on TV. The TBS years in the late 80s and early 90s were the best. To all that joined Ernie, Pete and Skip on TV in those days thanks.

Skip for Bream call and the “Braves have given you a champioship” thanks!

As when Lewis Grizzard passed, the south lost an icon yesterday.

Thanks Skip.

Pete, carry on!

By Raleigh Brave

August 4, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this

This is the time to honor Skip’s memory. He was wonderful. Soon it will be time to excoriate suits at TBS for their horrid treatment of him (and Pete). I know change is inevitable but give me the old days with Pete, Ernie and Skip any day. They made us all feel at home. TBS be damned.

By Billy

August 4, 2008 10:38 PM | Link to this

sixfourthree,

I think that you said it for a lot of us. When I think of Atlanta, I think of Skip Carey, Pete VanWeiren, Lewis Grizzard, and Furman Bisher (not necessarily in that order). I treasure every time that I read a new column from Mr. Bisher, and I’ll take more time to listen to Pete whenever I can.

By NELSON

August 4, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this

I hope Skip and Harry are enjoying a many Budweisers tonight. Skip was the master of understating the obvious. I remember when Pete Van Wieren asked Skip what type of pitch the Braves’ pitcher had just thrown for a homerun and Skip said he had no idea ” but it sure was a fastball out of here”. We are blessed that Chip will carry the legacy well. Rest in peace.

By NELSON

August 4, 2008 10:45 PM | Link to this

I hope Skip and Harry are enjoying a many Budweisers tonight. Skip was the master of understating the obvious. I remember when Pete Van Wieren asked Skip what type of pitch the Braves’ pitcher had just thrown for a homerun and Skip said he had no idea ” but it sure was a fastball out of here”. We are blessed that Chip will carry the legacy well. Rest in peace.

By sUGAr

August 4, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this

Joe Simpson commented that the Giants were going to have a moment of silence in honor of Skip. Just because you didn’t see it, doesn’t mean it didn’t happen.

Goodbye, Skip. When the games were/are on Channel 5 or ESPN, etc. I turn off their noise so I could listen to you and the guys because you know our team.

Please keep a watch out for the Braves..and the other Atlanta teams because they will alway need someone like you in their corner.

By MightyQuinn

August 4, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this

It’s interesting that people started mentioning Skip with Lewis Grizzard. I was comtemplating life and death while driving across Texas today and one of Lewis’ sayings came to mind: “Losing hurts more than winning feels good.” We truly lost this weekend, and damn, it hurts.

By dave kailer

August 4, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this

I loved to hear Skip when he was on. I do not want to speak ill of a terrific talent. But if his wife wants to know why he’s not in the Hall of Fame, ask the people he worked with and the other broadcasters. In his prime he treated people horribly snd was incredibly rude—I saw it as a worker on many telecasts of opposing teams. I respect his talent and enjoyed listening—when he wasn;t berating his bosses, his co-workers or the fans who called in. Skip was a Hall of Fame broadcaster—but NOT a Hall of Fame person

By Brent

August 4, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this

Another Skip saying that made me laugh: Leaving the game Skip would give the traffic report and say, ‘traffic is horrible in every direction. Drive safely, folks’. Chip, we look forward to having you back when the time is right. Our prayers are with you and your family.

By Michael Abramowitz

August 5, 2008 12:14 AM | Link to this

To follow in the footsteps of a legendary parent in the very same field and leave your own indelible mark is an incredible accomplishment, and Skip pulled it off like a 6-4-3 — Blauser to Lemke to Bream-style. Now, Chip and Josh will surely do the same.

As we know, Skip was the master of the deadpan…In the 70s and 80s, on the empty seats that were the norm…”And country star Slim Pickens on hand here at the Stadium once again tonight, folks.”

“Lots of seats cleverly disquised as fans tonight at the old ballpark.”

On how he introduced Mike Schmidt’s at bats each time after Pete famously flubbed Schmidt’s name on the air..”And up comes the Phillies hard-hitting third sacker.”

Skip used to say that “it was always such a pleasure.” Truth of the matter, it was always our pleasure.

Skip, may you rest in peace and may every night in eternity be “on this winning night” — followed by the “award-winning 10th Inning Show,” of course. Thanks for all the wonderful memories. My sincere condolences to the Caray family and all of Skip’s many good friends throughout baseball and the media.

By super17

August 5, 2008 12:31 AM | Link to this

One more favorite line, to go along with the hundreds of classics already posted:

During a late season game at Dodger Stadium in 1985 or ‘86, a female patron was making her way up the stadium steps in a bikini. The cameraman managed to show her from the the back, wearing not much more than a thong as the bottom half of her wardrobe. Skip said in his usual nasal, deadpan way: “I’m reminded of the meat grinder who got a little behind in his work”.

By James from Spartanburg, SC

August 5, 2008 12:50 AM | Link to this

Growing up as a kid there are two voices I have always associated with the Braves, Skip and Pete. Skip will truly, truly be missed. I wish I could hear him call one more foul ball, that as a kid I was always amazed how he knew so much about every fan. Hears to a true legend and I hope to see a statue of him, Pete and Ernie in the near future at Turner Field. Skip’s death has made me realize how lucky we have been to have such great announcers.

Thanks Skip you will be missed!!!!

By gt

August 5, 2008 1:13 AM | Link to this

Skip: “You see that girl down there Pete?”

Pete: “Yeah.”

Skip: “Do you know what’s wrong with her?”

Pete: “No, what?”

Skip: “Absolutely nothing.”

You will be missed.

By jimmy_w

August 5, 2008 1:39 AM | Link to this

I knew I should’ve paid more attention to the radio this year, despite the pain of fire-sale, un-inspiring play.

I will miss hearing “The deliverrryyyyyyyyyyyyyy” after virtually every pitch.

As others have said, another part of my childhood has passed on.

By mistermak

August 5, 2008 1:41 AM | Link to this

I especially liked his witty description of the movie that was showing next on TBS. Does any one remember his famous quote: “you have our permission to walk the dog if you promise to patronize our sponsors.” I always loved that!!!

By Al

August 5, 2008 1:51 AM | Link to this

During the day games or as Skip would say the “Business man’s special”…. “It’s great to see so many businessmen that have brought their daughters to the park today.” -Skip Caray classic

By Matt

August 5, 2008 2:06 AM | Link to this

I miss Skip terribly already. I remember how I used to delay going to bed on school nights so I could watch the game, and when my mom finally made me go to bed, I would just turn on the radio in my room and listen to Skip and Pete call the game. I fell asleep to Skip’s voice many, many times, and the thought of Braves baseball without him is heartbreaking. Right about now, he is probably calling games between The Babe, Gehrig, DiMaggio, Clemente, Cy Young, Shoeless Joe, and Ty Cobb, alongside his Dad. All I know is that when I join them, wherever they are, the first thing I’ll do is tune into the game and hear, once more, “The strech…the pitch…struck him out and the ballgame is over!” Rest in peace, Skip. You are one of a kind

By Trae

August 5, 2008 2:20 AM | Link to this

Nice article, Mr. Bisher. I’ll miss Skip very much. I can’t imagine a Summer without him.

By Matt

August 5, 2008 2:21 AM | Link to this

Favorite Skip-isms:

“The bases are loaded, and [opposing manager] probably wishes he was.”

(During an ‘80’s losing streak) “And, like lambs to the slaughter, the Braves take the field.”

(About Braves pitcher Jung Bong) “And there’s another hit off Bong.”

(Commenting on a well-endowed female) “Two out here in the fifth.”

He always made me laugh!

By John C

August 5, 2008 3:03 AM | Link to this

I always liked when Skip and Don got together to call the game. There was always “mischief” in the air. During a game in St. Louis, I believe, as Skip and Don were feeling a little randy, someone yelled into the microphone that was placed right below the broadcasting booth – “TBS – The Best Sex”. For once, both Skip and Don were speechless.

By RonMur

August 5, 2008 3:48 AM | Link to this

Broadcasters will come, and broadcasters will go. But Skip will never be replaced. He was THE VOICE of the Braves. He made the slowest of games entertaining. His off-the-wall conversations would have you laughing, regardless if we were winning or losing.

I will certainly miss him and his style. The Braves have suffered an insurmountable loss that no front office can repair.

Rest in peace, Skip. I’ll tune you in when I get there.

By Kevin

August 5, 2008 5:19 AM | Link to this

Yes skip is gone the game lost a great man n father to his son and his lovin wife for 33 years.And his voice callin great moments will be Miss…He was never rude to anyone if u not picky at him…I love his call-in talk show’s he told u straight out…Rest in peace skip n I sure hope U in Hall-of-fame in cooperstown Next year..lets also put ernie johnson in hall same time skip would love it

By Jaydog

August 5, 2008 5:24 AM | Link to this

Favorite Skip memory…During one of those “businessman special” weekday games, the camera was panning the crowd. It stopped on an “older” gentleman sitting with a VERY attractive younger lady. Without missing a beat, Skip says, “Well, it’s good to see that some folks bringing their daughters to the game.” The only noise out of the booth for the next 60 seconds was the sound of him and his broadcast partner snickering but trying to keep it in without completely losing it.
God bless Skip, his wife,kids and grandkids….

By Gail Welch

August 5, 2008 6:58 AM | Link to this

I totally agree with the Braves fan that said he has not watched one minute of TBS since they desided not to air the Braves. I did not feel that way until the Sunday, the one game of the season, they were schedule to air the game and atleast in our market, did not. I too do not care to watch the station. Someone somewhere will get the idea that without fans and without viewers, they are nothing. And with that I will say,’So long folks’.

By richbrave

August 5, 2008 7:46 AM | Link to this

BRAVES baseball will never be the same for me.

By jfh

August 5, 2008 7:56 AM | Link to this

Last time Skip got sidelined (by the genius executives at TBS) we fans created enough or a ruckus that they relented and brought him back.

Wonder if we could do that again? Would St Peter relent too?

Well done Skip. Thanks for the memories!

j

By Tide247365

August 5, 2008 7:58 AM | Link to this

By reebok

August 5, 2008 8:21 AM | Link to this

One of my favorie Skip Carey quotes, when David Justice hit into an easy ground-ball out…”Aaaaand…There is no Justice.”

By Milo "don't forget me" Hamilton

August 5, 2008 8:30 AM | Link to this

I liked Skip as much as the next guy and will miss his work; however, I never really considered him a great announcer. He was much better with the Hawks than he was with the Braves. It’s amazing that he announced baseball for 33 years yet could never judge a fly ball. The chemistry he had with Van Weiren and Ernie J. was priceless.

By gayle

August 5, 2008 8:35 AM | Link to this

Lots of good memories here -

“he had a home run cut and came up empty”

And for those of us in the stands, when the banner plane flew overhead offering free admission to The Cheetah after the game with a ticket stub, Skip would invariably ask his partner, “Joe, what are you doing after the game today?”

This is such a sad day.

By Morgan Kemp

August 5, 2008 8:39 AM | Link to this

I grew up listening to Skip Carey, and his Dad Harry. I am 39 and listenend in the days of John Sterling and Ernie Johson, Sr. I loved Skip Carey. There was no one like him. He was there every afternoon, taking questions with Pete Van Weiren and broadcasting the games with the WSB crew. We welcomed him into our lives on a daily basis, and his voice was iconic and his broadcasts fun. Over the many years, he became like family. I will miss Skip Carey very much and I wish the Carey family God Speed. Thanks Skip.

By dan

August 5, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

He was witty and droll and sarcastic and most announcers these days are trained to repress that stuff. That’s too bad. I’ve heard a lot of announcers and he ranks probably not in the first tier (Scully, Buck, Miller, L. Nelson), but the next level. I’m sorry I never heard him do the Hawks; I’m told those games showcased his best stuff.

By Maconboy

August 5, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this

Holy cow! Skip is gone………….

By dan

August 5, 2008 9:31 AM | Link to this

He was witty and droll and sarcastic and most announcers these days are trained to repress that stuff. That’s too bad. I’ve heard a lot of announcers and he ranks probably not in the first tier (Scully, Buck, Miller, L. Nelson), but the next level. I’m sorry I never heard him do the Hawks; I’m told those games showcased his best stuff.

By tarheel fan

August 5, 2008 10:05 AM | Link to this

Skip was feeding the birds when he collapsed, according to today’s paper. Sounds just like him, maybe a bit of a curmudgeon, but a man with a big heart that gave out way too soon. All this fan knows about baseball was learned from listening to Skip from the 1960’s on and enjoying his banter with his crew. My sympathy to his family, he’s going to be missed.

By Jeff - Franklin, TN

August 5, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this

Mid summer game on Sunday afternoon…. foul ball behind third base goes into the stands and is caught by young man sitting next to attractive female….

Skip: “… that makes TWO nice catches for that young man…”

I’ll miss you Skip.

By willdave

August 5, 2008 10:18 AM | Link to this

dan, I’m old enough to remember when Skip called the Hawks games. He delivered those broadcasts with the same witty, sarcastic, nasally tone that would eventually make him famous. I still can’t believe we won’t hear his unique style again. What an immensely entertaining announcer and just a wonderful human being Skip Caray was.

By Jeff Hill

August 5, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this

Skips Carey’s passing means a passing of an era to me. The era of the Brave Falcon bar, the Hawks and Braves arrival to the first big City of the Deep South and the new downtown night life scene that Skip Carey represented quite well. The days when the Hyatt Regency Polaris Dome dominated the skyline and Underground Atlanta was the place that all of the young boomers partied until the wee hours. The late sixties and early seventies were the years of his rise to an Atlanta icon and that time of change in Georgia and the rest of our society were very memorable and dynamic.

Furman you go back further than that and to me represent the class and gentility that made it possible. When you pass from this immortal coil I may move.

P.S. - Great Article Furman, you’re the only one truly qualified to write it.

Your truest fan - Jeff Hill

By Bruce

August 5, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this

Furman,

Skip is a Southern LEGEND, like Sinkwich, Herschel, Grizzard, Bo, Buck, Nobis, Bartkowski, Lindsay Scott (which reminds me…of course…Munson), George Rodgers, but the BEST WRITER EVER is Furman Bisher. I’ve read your column for over 40 years and you are truly a legend. Thank you SO MUCH for bringing joy to my life for all of these years.

Bruce

By Mike

August 5, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this

Only Furman Bisher could write such a timely piece on a great Atlanta sports tradition. My favorite Braves memories always include Skip Carey and always will. I remember him holding down the fort at the old Brave Falcon Lounge where sports stories were always on tap. My guess is that he’s already having a deep-dish pizza and a cool one with his Dad. Enjoy, my friend - you’ve earned it.

By Ssgreeno

August 5, 2008 11:07 AM | Link to this

Driving alone on the highway one Summer night, coming from a long work seminar in Ohio, I twirled the radio dial to find something to keep me alert, I tuned in to the comforting voices of Skip and Pete and the Braves game, and I knew I was near home. I was doing O.K. during last night’s game on TV, until the very last - when they put up Skip’s picture and the recording where he said his usual “Goodnight, Folks” then I lost it. Godspeed, Skip. You are already missed.

By NINA

August 5, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this

Skip WAS Braves baseball I, like MANY, will miss you terribly. I hope you are enjoying the front row with your Dad. So long, Skip…

By Mike Dudnikov

August 5, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

I am really going to miss Skip. I discovered him in 1982 as a Dodgers fan when I subscribed to cable to enjoy that great Braves-Dodgers rivalry when both were in the same division. Though he later became something of a homer, for most of the time I saw him he was wonderfully fair minded, and what a wicked sense of humor.

The only mistake I remember him making was his comment over the years of how a very much unknown backup Dodgers catcher named Dave Sax had beaten the Braves in several key games in 1983, when the Dodgers had edged out the Braves that year. Actually it was Jack Fimple, a different third string catcher. Though not of great moment, I always wished I could have talked to him of this.

My favorite comment of his over the years came one the night when I was listening to the Braves play the Giants in Frisco. Suddenly, commenting about how horrible old Candlestick Park was as a baseball venue, Skip blurts out, “Someone ought to tear this thing down and build a slum here.” Only Skip could have gotten away with saying that or had it come to his mind.

I am very sorry that today there is world in which there is no longer a Skip Caray. To his family, you have my very sincere condolences, and I hope the consolation that he made the life of someone he never met just a little happier.

By Mike Dudnikov

August 5, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

I am really going to miss Skip. I discovered him in 1982 as a Dodgers fan when I subscribed to cable to enjoy that great Braves-Dodgers rivalry when both were in the same division. Though he later became something of a homer, for most of the time I saw him he was wonderfully fair minded, and what a wicked sense of humor.

The only mistake I remember him making was his comment over the years of how a very much unknown backup Dodgers catcher named Dave Sax had beaten the Braves in several key games in 1983, when the Dodgers had edged out the Braves that year. Actually it was Jack Fimple, a different third string catcher. Though not of great moment, I always wished I could have talked to him of this.

My favorite comment of his over the years came one the night when I was listening to the Braves play the Giants in Frisco. Suddenly, commenting about how horrible old Candlestick Park was as a baseball venue, Skip blurts out, “Someone ought to tear this thing down and build a slum here.” Only Skip could have gotten away with saying that or had it come to his mind.

I am very sorry that today there is world in which there is no longer a Skip Caray. To his family, you have my very sincere condolences, and I hope the consolation that he made the life of someone he never met just a little happier.

By Johnny Evans

August 5, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this

Skip-you will be missed by many=I pray for your family==

TBS==HOW LONG DO YOU THINK==i love raymond will pay the bills. I hope my cable station drops TBS=nothing interesting to watch.

johnny Evans Chesapeake, Va

By Salt

August 5, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this

I’m trying to get a grass roots movement going.

You guys could certainly help.

Skip hated the Wave so much, I think it would be a fitting tribute for fans to voluntarily give up the Wave in memory of Skip.

It would be ideal for the Braves to hand out small signs that say “In memory of Skip - No More Wave”, but anything that accomplishes the same purpose would help.

Once started, it would be maintained by peer pressure as a lasting memorial to Skip.

Fans would say, “Hey, man, sit down! Skip hated the Wave.”

Thanks,

By Chris Jackson

August 5, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this

Mr Bisher,

I hate your guts and hope your next you talk like it’ the 1800’s you don’t deserve a column please quit writing because YOU SUCK!!!!

By NINA

August 5, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this

I hope the movement that Joe mentioned last night catches on. Retire number 17 in honor of the Braves broadcasters and TBS that put them on the map! How about it, guys?

By Phil Sisk

August 5, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this

Just want to add my own condolences to those already so eloquently expressed by so many fans. I’ve been a Braves fan myself since the 60’s - when they put their AAA team in Richmond. And I’ve been a loyal fan through the good times and bad. I always thought that Skip and Pete and Don and Ernie were the best team of broadcasters ever. Like others, I remember laughing at the witty banter between them and enjoyed their enthusiasm over a great play or a win. Our world is a little emptier today without Skip. I wish I had some of his game broadcasts on tape to relive those memories of my past. God bless you, Skip - and save us seats for the game when we come join you one day.

Thanks, Furman, for another fine column - you are the master of the written word and I appreciate what you have done these many years. My son went into journalism because of role models like you.

And a big thanks as well to those other stellar announcers/broadcast personnel who have made watching or listening to the Braves a life-long habit: Don, Pete, Ernie, Chip - you guys are doing a great job and I for one hope it continues for many years.

By ctt

August 5, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this

I too will miss Skip greatly. Even in the dark days of the 80’s, and with our best player, Dale Murphy at the plate, Braves on the losing end, the call goes something like this..And the 3-2 pitch….totals and highlights after this….

God Bless you Skip.

By Terence Allen

August 5, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this

Skip was one of a kind. There wasn’t anyone quite like him, even his dad. And there won’t be anyone like him in the future. Rest in peace, big guy.

By Terence Allen

August 5, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this

Skip was one of a kind. There wasn’t anyone quite like him, even his dad. And there won’t be anyone like him in the future. Rest in peace, big guy.

By Bingo

August 5, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

I met Skip when I was about 10 years old. He was nice, yet a prickly sort of guy. Attended a post game bar-b-que at a great friend of Skip’s house, Jack Pifke, in Sandy Springs. Jack was the unofficial “insurance salesman” for the Braves slinging policies to the old timers. Simple days back then when players would convene at someones house after the game. Mostly because they made a regular paycheck and appreciated a good, free meal! Met Lumm, Cepeda, Aspramonte, Garr, and a few more at Pifke’s house, along with Skip. I think it was Skip who showed me the first silver dollar I had ever seen. I thought that was “cool”!!! This guy is rich!!Traveled 5 southern states as a cub salesman out of college. Can’t tally the hundreds of nights driving from Nowhere Alabama to Somewhere Georgia listening to Skip and the Braves. Those were quality times, all alone, 2 lane roads, pack of crackers, a coke, and Skip as my co-pilot. Thanks for those peaceful times Skip. I figured alot out about my life on those trips together. My Dad, brother and I were at the NLCS game with the Pirates and played Skips’ Bionic Bream scamper crawl to the plate play by play in the car on the way home. A memory of my dad and brother that I owe in part to Skip. He was “there” with us. A magic moment for 3 native Atlanta sports fans who were there thru litlle thick and much thin with the rookie Braves, Hawks, and Falcons. When I married and moved to Orlando, Skip sent a little bit of himself down to make us feel at home-his son to call the Magic games and the relo of Spring Ball to Disney. And in my business travels the Cary family touched my life as they do not know. My wife was pregnant, I mean really pregnant in 1991, when I was called to Chi-Town for a meeting. I took her with me against doctors orders. Dinner at Harry’s restaurant was a must. In the bar with a 45 minute wait for a table, my wife nuges me to tell me she cannot stand any longer. Not a minute goes by and I get a nudge on my shoulder. Turn around and it’s Harry. Insists he give up HIS table to me and wifey. Said he saw us there and knew wifey needed relief. We declined, he insisted, and once again the Carey family impacted my/our lives. All in all a classic story of good things to great people. I will miss you Skipper. By the way, as mentioned by many, Skip told all things as he saw them. I will miss a heads up on a bad movie that will follow the game!!

By George Sandler

August 5, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this

It is true. We take those things that are so familiar and comfortable for granted.

I, like many other Braves fans, watched when the Braves were in the playoffs and World Series on the tv, but LISTENED to Skip and the guys on the radio because of the way they covered the game and because they were OPENLY rooting on the Braves. You felt that, while he called the game and everything else with no holds barred, he was a true fan. THAT was why we listened. It was as if you were sitting next to a friend who had more baseball knowledge than you but never talked down to you. Except for for maybe we you took part in “The Wave”.

I too feel that TBS treated Mr. Caray much like an old piece of furniture that could be easily replaced. I will give the powers at be credit, as least they LISTENED when the fans protested. Still doesn’t excuse the behavior but we did get more of him, at least for a little while.

Finally, the fact that he could bring his sense of humor to a game that, quite honestly, can be as exciting at times as watching paint dry. Yet we as a group of fans never stopped listening BECAUSE of his wit, his knowledge and again, because it was like listening to an old friend. Hopefully SOMEONE will wake up and the man will be in the Hall of Fame sooner than later. Too bad he won’t be here to see it.

Then again, a huge part of him will be here. He will live on in our hearts and in the game. Farewell, Mr. Caray. I sincerely hope no one does “The Wave” in heaven.

George Sandler, Loganville GA

By Rusty

August 5, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this

I, like so many youngsters of the 70’s watched the FREE Braves games on WTCG/WTBS on our little 13’ black and white tv’s cheering for our heroes, Murph,Bobblin’Bob Horner,Claudell,Chambliss and the rest. That feeling of excitement that would come over us when we would hear Skip exclaim those three magic words…”There’s a drive!” It still gives me chills.

By DantheDawgFan

August 5, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

“A lotta room in right-center, if he hits one there we can dance in the streets.

The 2-1. Swung, line drive left field! One run is in! Here comes Bream! Here’s the throw to the plate! He is…safe! Braves win! Braves win! Braves win! Braves win!…Braves win!”

By Wxyz

August 5, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this

I wonder if Skip Caray is interviewing Lou Gehrig right now in heaven. Having Skip Caray around for so many years makes me feel like the luckiest man (man man) on the face (face face) of the earth (earth earth).

Police now say Skip Caray died at his backyard birdfeeder with the orioles, the cardinals and the bluejays……

By chuck

August 5, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this

There are 2 moments that really stand out for me when recalling listening to Skip. One is the famous game with all the brawls when Bob Horner left the booth with a cast on to join the fray. Skip kept remarking how “they’d had a little bit of everything in this game” & finally at one point added “they’d had everthing except a fight between the announcers”. Following a a commercial break Skip said.. “Well folks I just went over in the next booth & punched Milo’s lights out so now we’ve had some of everything in this game tonight”!

It was hilarious!

Also, back in 91 when the chop & the chant had just started at the Brave’s games, I was listening to Skip in my truck one night when you could hear the chant in the background go on & on for quite some time. Finally Skip stated “he belived that was a record for the longest the chant had gone on do far.” It gave me the chills I new right then that was a very special season the Braves would have. I’ll miss Skip. I loved him all the way back to when he called the Hawks’s games.

By Dr. Warren

August 5, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

It was ALWAYS “Cocktail Hour” listening to Skip.

By A-Train

August 5, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

It’s not a funny line, but for some reason it’s one I always remember. When the last out was made in that brawl-filled game against the Padres in ‘84, Pete said something like, “The Braves win a wild one by the score of 5 to 3.” Skip followed with: “What a fiasco!”

By TJ

August 5, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this

Don’t know if anyone has seen this, but there is a nice tribute to Skip from Dale Russell of Fox Atlanta where Skip once wrote him an “excuse note” for being out late. Another priceless story about Skip. (Boy, I hope this link works…)

http://community.myfoxatlanta.com/blogs/DaleRussell/2008/08/04/APersonalThankYouNoteforSkip_Caray

By TJ

August 5, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this

Don’t know if anyone has seen this, but there is a nice tribute to Skip from Dale Russell of Fox Atlanta where Skip once wrote him an “excuse note” for being out late. Another priceless story about Skip. (Boy, I hope this link works…)

http://community.myfoxatlanta.com/blogs/DaleRussell/2008/08/04/APersonalThankYouNoteforSkip_Caray

By TJ

August 5, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this

Sorry about the double post. Computer glitch. Or operator error. and I don’t think the whole link copied, but if you go to www.myfoxatlanta.com, you can find the post in the sports section.

By Maconboy

August 5, 2008 2:52 PM | Link to this

Mr Bisher, I agree with you & Skip will be missed by oh so many of us.

Of couse as you can see from some of the posts there are some jerks around who just don’t get it.

I have been enjoying your work since the 1950’s & I must say you are one of the best.

Keep up the great work & I hope to follow you for many years to come.

By Tony Silvia

August 5, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this

Skip was and will always be remembered as a class act. I consider myself fortunate that I was able to interview him in June for a book I’m writing on baseball’s father and son broadcasters. I’m told by Chip that it was more than likely his very last interview. He sounded strong and feisty, his sense of humor intact, and his gracious nature fully evident. He told me how he’d had a hell of a life and wouldn’t change one thing. His passing is sad, but his life was remarkable. He passed on some valuable lessons for living to all who met him, including me. I’m grateful for the opportunity.

By Tony Silvia

August 5, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this

Skip was and will always be remembered as a class act. I consider myself fortunate that I was able to interview him in June for a book I’m writing on baseball’s father and son broadcasters. I’m told by Chip that it was more than likely his very last interview. He sounded strong and feisty, his sense of humor intact, and his gracious nature fully evident. He told me how he’d had a hell of a life and wouldn’t change one thing. His passing is sad, but his life was remarkable. He passed on some valuable lessons for living to all who met him, including me. I’m grateful for the opportunity.

By bill

August 5, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

just had to add a memory I have of watching Skip, Ernie & Pete back in the 80’s when the Braves usually couldn’t get it done. For several years the Braves had both Gene Garber and Rick Camp in the bullpen.During this time, one of the announcers made his way down to the field for a post-game interview on those rare occasions when the team pulled one out. On this particular night,Skip had the duty,and Garber had come into a close game and had gotten the save and was to be interviewed. During the interview, Skip inadvertantly called Garber Rick(Camp I guess)- you just knew Skip realized what he’d said immediately because he cut his eyes to the left at Garber and got a really funny lookon his face. Garber obviously picked up on the blooper because for the rest of the interview he answered every question with “Well yes. ERNIE ’ , or ‘No, ERNIE’, and concluded the interview with “Thanks for having me on,ERNIE” During all this, Skip kept a poker face the entire time and conluded the segment by throwing it back to the booth. When the picture switches back to the booth, we see Ernie laughing so hard he is practically crying. He finally had to get his booth-mate to finish the wrap-up. I can’t for the life of me think of that guy’s name right now. He was the former player who joined the announce team right after John Sterling left, before Joe Simpson or Don Sutton came in. Braves fans have been blessed in having the very best broadcast team in baseball for years. I have missed being able to watch them since TBS stopped telecasting Braves baseball, and the Fox Sports people chose not to use either Skip or Pete for their packages. RIP Skip Caray, you were a treasure

By Joz

August 5, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this

I phoned into the radio show some eight years ago to thank Skip for the memories. I went on to tell him how I grew up a Tiger’s fan in Michigan in the 70’s & early 80’s. Listening with my father to the greatest voice to ever call baseball, Ernie Harwell, broadcast the Tiger’s games. How listening to him would take me back to childhood memories of riding in the car or sitting at home listening to Ernie Harwell paint a portrait that was so vivid you almost thought you were there, you could literally feel the emotions…

“…He is….SAFE…! Braves win…! Braves win…! Braves win…! Braves win…! Braves win…!”

See what I mean… Thanks Skip.

By Joz

August 5, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this

I phoned into the radio show some eight years ago to thank Skip for the memories. I went on to tell him how I grew up a Tiger’s fan in Michigan in the 70’s & early 80’s. Listening with my father to the greatest voice to ever call baseball, Ernie Harwell, broadcast the Tiger’s games. How listening to him would take me back to childhood memories of riding in the car or sitting at home listening to Ernie Harwell paint a portrait that was so vivid you almost thought you were there, you could literally feel the emotions…

“…He is….SAFE…! Braves win…! Braves win…! Braves win…! Braves win…! Braves win…!”

See what I mean… Thanks Skip.

By Joz

August 5, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this

I phoned into the radio show some eight years ago to thank Skip for the memories. I went on to tell him how I grew up a Tiger’s fan in Michigan in the 70’s & early 80’s. Listening with my father to the greatest voice to ever call baseball, Ernie Harwell, broadcast the Tiger’s games. How listening to him would take me back to childhood memories of riding in the car or sitting at home listening to Ernie Harwell paint a portrait that was so vivid you almost thought you were there, you could literally feel the emotions…

“…He is….SAFE…! Braves win…! Braves win…! Braves win…! Braves win…! Braves win…!”

See what I mean… Thanks Skip.

By Donna from California

August 5, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this

Many a long, losing game was made fun by the treasured Skip and Ernie, The den became our home during baseball season…the Braves and TBS…We had the pleasure of meeting Skip several times. He was just as he seemed on the air. jovial, quick and so darned smart. He knew baseball and he knew his audience. He will be missed.

By Joz

August 5, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this

I phoned into the radio show some eight years ago to thank Skip for the memories. I went on to tell him how I grew up a Tiger’s fan in Michigan in the 70’s & early 80’s. Listening with my father to the greatest voice to ever call baseball, Ernie Harwell, broadcast the Tiger’s games. How listening to him would take me back to childhood memories of riding in the car or sitting at home listening to Ernie Harwell paint a portrait that was so vivid you almost thought you were there, you could literally feel the emotions…

“…He is….SAFE…! Braves win…! Braves win…! Braves win…! Braves win…! Braves win…!”

See what I mean… Thanks Skip.

By Ed Glennon

August 5, 2008 6:18 PM | Link to this

I have been feeling really down the last two days. I knew he was not weel but I didn’t expect this. My mother and I listened to the games in the 1970’s-80’s out here in Eugene and he would always bring a smile to our faces. I am glad my dad got to work with him. I wish I had known him too.

By Whistlebritches

August 5, 2008 8:25 PM | Link to this

Rest in Peace. It’s more peaceful than this season. I understand his wife is upset, but it’s classless to talk about Hall of Fame and TBS. Enjoy his memorial services and honor him. Don’t take away from that. Skip was great, but he burned some bridges along the way. Please let those pass.

By Kris

August 5, 2008 9:31 PM | Link to this

I grew up a Braves fan (I am 27 now). The night sloth-footed Sid Bream slid home to safety was the greatest night of my childhood. My brother and I screamed and danced around madly. We were going to the World Series again! Every time I hear that Georgia Power commercial I get goose-bumps. I never knew Skip personally (although I hear he did have a big heart), but I do know that Braves games on the radio will never be the same again. So keep it up Professor. The magic of the Braves Radio Network now lies in your capable hands. Oh, look a fan from Conyers comes away with the souvenir. One of my favorite Skip Sayings: “…the pitch…down the middle for ball one…”

By the way… I don’t profess to know who goes to heaven and who doesn’t…but Ty Cobb…really?

By scottbravesfan

August 5, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this

Skip and Pete are baseball in the south. The hall of fame should be ashamed of itself for not putting in Skip Carey while he was alive. They need to put Pete in as soon as possible as well.

By whistlebritches

August 6, 2008 7:01 AM | Link to this

Should they put Skip in for his bitterness or joy.

By richbrave

August 6, 2008 7:13 AM | Link to this

whistlebritches:

Put him in for something no other broadcaster ever had - BOTH.

By stanley sisson

August 6, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this

YOU will be miss skip,you was the greatest.I have been listening to skip since i was 12yrs old,I am now 44 yrs old. GOD BLESS. This one is for you.BRAVES WIN!BRAVES WIN! BRAVES WIN! BRAVES WIN! PS I wish one day in the near future TBS would do a show about Skip’s calls on the radio and t.v. and have ERNIE,PETE,DON,JOE. to narrate it.

By Hoosier Aaron

August 6, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this

Baseball is a radio game..for sure.

Growing up in Southern Indiana a Braves fan (because of Hank Aaron) - my only access to Braves Baseball was radio.

I have too many memories of Skip to begin listing my favorite.

However, in 1990 when I became engaged to the girl who is now my wife - I told her that she MUST be a Braves fan. :^)

She was a quick study. Even today, around the breakfast table with our three boys - she’ll be the first one to ask “Braves beat the Giants last nignt?”

Anyway, while we were discussing Skip the other night - she said, “Do you know how long it took me to realize that Skip didn’t really know where the people were from when they scrambled for a souvenir?”

I have an autographed photo of Ernie Johnson in my basement. Ernie was truly my favorite - But no one can deny that Skip should be in Cooperstown.

Skip made it fun to love the Bravos when the wins were few and far between and even more fun when we were winning.

By stonoguy

August 6, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this

Back in the 80s, my room mate and I used to pull the curtains closed so no one would know we were watching the Braves.

I remember being over at a friend’s house and he received TV stations over a satellite dish. We watched the Braves that night (80s). This was when the “feed” from the stadium to the TV station could be received. A female sang the national anthem and did it horribly. Skip said, “Anybody got a gun?” We all busted out in laughter at that remark. Skip will be sorely missed. RIP

By Kelley Hale

August 6, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this

Skip, Thanks for everything. I will miss your broadcasts. To me you, Ernie and Pete will always be the voice of my beloved Braves.

Rest easy my friend. And say Hello for me to another Atlanta institution, Lewis Grizzard. I’m sure he is glad to see you again…..

By Brianob

August 6, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this

I can’t really add much about Skip that hasn’t already been said, but I would be remiss if I didn’t at least say goodbye.

Thank you Skip for all the enjoyable summer evenings on Lake Lanier, listening to your Braves broadcasts on my Dad’s boat. You were, and always will be the voice of Braves baseball, and I will miss you.

By Cheryl

August 6, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this

Amend to TBS . They did Skip and Pete wrong. Waht a mistake on their part. Hope is really cost them. I will never forget one October evening we were in the BVI’s on a boat holding a radio in the air turning it so gently to catch the Braves game with Skip and Pete. It was the game where we won the First National Title. Skip went nuts and so did we. He won that game just as part of the team. I thought he was coming out of the radio . He was and will always be a part of this team. We will miss him but will never forget him. Go Braves..

By Norm

August 6, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this

Started following the Braves in 1968 as a 7 year old. Skip was 40 years of Braves baseball to me. He taught me the game. There were many memories…714 and 715, the Rico Carty, Felix Millan, Clete Boyer years, Nuxie was always good for a win and Dale could always hit one out. Horner, Baker, Evans, Williams. Re-Markable!! The early 80 runs, when our shot at a National league pennant was lost to rain out in game 1 at St. Louis. The consecutive game win streak. Ending Roses chase for the consecutive game hit record. The empty stadium and 100 loss seasons in the late 80’s. Lum Harris, Eddie Matthews, Dave Bristol, Torre, Tanner, Nixon, Cox and all the other managers (including Ted for 1 game) . The amazing worst to first in and the minnesota series. The incrediable comback aganst the pirates when all seemed lost —Steve Avery! The Lone WS Title. 14 Straight, Glavin, Maddux, Smoltz —the revolving door of closers. Gant, Blouser and Pendelton. Crime Dog!!! and the stadium fire.

Looking for the braves on radio in the 80’s from North Carolina, and Pennsylvania and always finding WSB on a late night skip. There was no internet or cable then.

Through it all there was all ways 1 constant, one trusted friend who always made the world right again no matter what the day brought!

Rest in Peace Skip

By Lawdog

August 6, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this

By johnny

August 7, 2008 1:03 AM | Link to this

there are times in our lives when we know our lives will never be the same.tonight i’ve come to realize with skip’s passing this will be one of those times.i loved his homerun call”there’s a drive……….

By Neal

August 7, 2008 3:33 AM | Link to this

I know that I’m in the minority, but I never liked Skip Caray as a Braves announcer. I am sorry that he passed away, and feel for Chip, his family, and Braves family. When I was young, Skip did the Atlanta Hawks games. I thought he was FANTASTIC! He was made to do roundball. However, when it came to baseball, I have always felt that he was the worst announcer, and I sure as hell have heard some bad ones. There are some people in this world who just have the uncanny ability to make other people laugh. Others try to be humorous, but fail miserably. Skip always failed. He used to do a call-in show on WSB, and he was so arrogant. I know a lot of people called who were dumber than a second coat of paint, but Skip was rude. When he would sit with Don Sutton, he would says unnecessary things when Don was explaining something. I hate announcers who never even played the game. I never liked Harry Caray either. He was just as arrogant. Steve Stone would be explaining something, and Caray would say unnecessary things. The one Caray I do like is Chip. He is sensational! I have never heard him be arrogant, and he is so different from the other two. He is insightful and intelligent. He just does his job, and always has meaningful, entertaining things to say. Ok, go ahead and bash away.

By Skip Caray's ghost

August 7, 2008 8:32 AM | Link to this

I dont know that it’s proper to say that one man’s voice can define all of baseball. He was the sound of braves baseball, maybe. What does define baseball? Baseball is defined by factors no one man can fulfill. Baseball belongs to the ages. So does football. With the start of the 2008 NFL season, here’s a look back to Superbowl 42. (caution: this stinks. Do not read this at home, kids)

ODE TO ELI

It doesn’t take much to make me happy. When you stay hungry, everything tastes good. But I do require a quarterback.

When I first saw Eli Manning I was suprised. Peyton has a brother in the NFL? I gave up on him many times. (Flashes of brilliance, too gangly, and too many interceptions). But he never gave up on me and I said yes under an unretracted roof in Phoenix last Superbowl sunday.

Outlined against a blue grey curtain of certain and sudden death, Eli slipped the surly grasp of the blitz. He wheeled and flung and did a hundred things I’ve only dreamed of. His oval soared long and delirious over tangled arms and teeth clenched in hate. Once more into the breech he joined the tumbling mirth and offered a wounded desperation that a wide-out held on to like it was the Lombardi Trophy.

The next thing you know, Burress fakes the post, and son I got High Fives way down low, low, low…..

No, it doesn’t take much to make me happy. Not much at all.

THE END

(well you were warned. Now go back to baseball. “…..folks, the yankees, a fine ball club….here in the bottom half of the ninth inning.. bases loaded.. two outs..down by three runs.. and Yogi Berra at bat. Here’s the stretch.. here’s the pitch, andthere’salongflyballouttodeadcenteritcouldbeitcouldbeHOMERUNyankeeswin….”

By Paddy

August 7, 2008 8:56 AM | Link to this

Skip was a master at the mike. His toughest assignment over the years had to be the “Coaches Show With Eddie Haas”. It was painful to listen to with all the one and two word answers from ole skipper Haas. Skip would be the true professional but what a challenge for him. Many great memories first hand as I worked with him for 9 years. So sorry I live so far away and can’t get to the Monday memorial.

Braves Win, Braves Win, Braves Win

By Oz

August 7, 2008 9:09 AM | Link to this

Police now say that Skip died in his backyard at his birdfeeder with the Orioles, the Cardinals, and the Bluejays…..

By Paddy

August 7, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this

Oz…that was GREAT.

By Darrin "The Vent King"

August 7, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this

Sunday was a sad day for any Braves fan including me. There are certain things you remember as a part of your life growing up; things unfortunately you take for granted- spending the night at your best friends house, toys on xmas, last day of school, Maynard Jackson being the mayor, Atlanta-Fulton county stadium, the snow-storm (lol) of ‘84, the 1st MLK Day Parade. Well for me, Skip Caray was one of those things too. I can’t count how many times on a hot summer day over the course of my life I watched a Braves game and every once in awhile get totally cracked up by something off-beat that Skip may have said during a game. All those “chopper to Chipper” and “and the bases are full of Bravos” comments were as normal as hearing the birds chirp at sunrise and now its all gone. Wow. I just never thought about the fact that one day this would happen. It was if I expected Skip to always broadcast the games because ever since I’ve watched the Braves he has, but alas he won’t be doing it forever and watching the Braves will never be the same…here’s to you Skip- one of the best that ever done it.

GO SKIP!!

By Barry

August 7, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this

I felt like I lost a member of my family. I spent most every night for eight months with Skip in my living room. In a season riddled with injury and dissappointment, as a Braves fan, this just broke my heart.

I wept.

God Bless the Caray family and the millions of fans who adored Skip. He will be missed.

By Barry

August 7, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this

And yes, eight months. I would record the games on TBS so I’d have baseball to watch in the offseason. I’d watch baseball until December. Through good times and bad — I love this ballclub. I love this team. It’s a great organization and I hate that people in Atlanta aren’t more supportive. If you grew up in the South in the 80’s and 90’s and you played baseball, you wanted to be a Brave.

By Barry

August 7, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

“The wind and the pitch, here it is….swing! Fly ball deep left center…Grissom on the run…Yes! Yes! Yes! The Atlanta Braves have just given you a championship!”

Rest in peace, Skip.

By Stylin

August 7, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this

My comment is that due to the 24/7 coverage of Brett FARCE I didn’t notice any mention of Skip’s unfortunate death. My God! When will ESPN stop this maniacal overindulgence of Farve? Does he have ownership in the station? Enough is enough! There is not enough mustard at The Varsity to cover that egotistical hot dog and ESPN has gone crazy over him! GEEEEEEEEEEEEEEZZZZZZZZZZ!!!!!!

By richbrave

August 7, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this

LAWDOG:

Gonna’ root for the NATS now that the BRAVES no longer rule the Virginia area.? Enjoying that relaxed life-style in Southside.? Come back breaker.

LAWRENCE in RICHMOND

By Dennis G. Berdanis

August 7, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this

I grew up loving hearing Skip do the Hawks games. If he was on the radio and the Hawks were on tv, we would turn down the tv sound and listen to Skip. He was the best basketball announcer that ever lived!

He would call ever move on the court. You knew who was bodying who. Who was reaching out and slapping at who. You could “see” the game thru his eyes.

I later listened to Curt Gowdy call a national game and that’s when I realized how good Skip was. Gowdy would tell you who made a shot. Nothing else. No rebounds. No who is bodying who. No who’s doing a head fake and then making a pass. Just who shot and if they made it or missed.

My favorite memory of Skip doing a Braves game is early on in his time with the Braves. Around 1977 the Braves were having a bad year and Skip was getting bored with them. He spent one whole game not bothering to talk about baseball at all. He was doing the game by himself and all he talked about was a rental car he had picked up in another city. He wanted to know where to drop it off. He had fans calling in like a radio talk show giving him advise. He kept wanting to just leave it in a Kroger parking lot but wondered if he would then be charged for the full value of the car. It was hilarious. The braves got blown out that night so not hearing baseball that night was probably a good thing.

By Oz

August 7, 2008 9:25 PM | Link to this

Skip Caray’s talent was what the mic did to his voice. He was entertaining, but he knew baseball. Baseball was his strong suit, and the mic made him sound like he couldn’t possibly say anything that was not baseball. Even the rental car episode or the admiration of women’s physiques, (thank god he was a democrat and not a gay republican, thank your god, sirs, thank allah, thank every diety you know, but Skip Caray was a heterosexual American manly man who loved the manliest sport of them all, BASEBALL.

Skip Caray, then, was not just a broadcaster, but, if I may, the theo-cultural bastion of defense against the republican gay evangelical Rove hypocricy that nearly destroyed our country. Is there one man amoung you who doesn’t think Rove was gay?

Give me a break.

Conservatism is dead. Sen. Craig sounded taps with his flag at half mast.

Not that there’s anything wrong with that, but pardon moi, I’ve got kids to raise, you horrid gay republican losers.

Obama 08: Straight America takes over.

By michaelgee

August 8, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this

I am a long time Braves fan and I have to admit that I often turned the TV sound off and listened to the radio just to hear Skip.

One of my favorite “Skipisms” was while describing Johnny Estrada trying for a double. Skip said, “Johnny has deceptive speed, he’s slower than he looks”.

RIP Skip!

By Joe

August 10, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this

“Swuuuuung and drilled…” I loved the way he excited the listener. In tense situations, he always had me on the edge. “A little insurance…couldn’t hurt”. “Coffee (Todd) got creamed” I love that man. C ya Skip

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