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Home > Mark Bradley > Archives > 2008 > August > 03 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USSkip Caray did it his way
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Skip Caray was to Atlanta professional sports what Larry Munson is to the Georgia Bulldogs — the voice and the conscience, the history and the hilarity. Skip told us what was happening, yes, but Skip also told us what Skip made of what was happening, and over the course of four decades Skip’s prism became ours.
He came here with the Hawks, and he became part of our extended family — a crusty uncle, if you will — through his work with the Braves. The SuperStation beamed his imperfect voice from sea to shining sea, and though there were always others alongside — the Professor and Ernie at the beginning, Don and Joe later on — Skip was the one we thought we knew best. He was the funny one, the snarky one. He was Harry Caray’s son and Chip Caray’s dad, but somehow he was always just Skip.
As Munson is to worry, Skip was to grousing. He wasn’t from the neo-announcer’s school of happy talk. Skip hated the Wave and the Infield-Fly Rule and said as much at every opportunity. When he did a call-in show on WSB in the ’80s, he suffered clever callers only grudgingly and the bozos not at all. But because he was Skip, we didn’t much mind.
Indeed, that was the beauty (and the incongruity) of Skip Caray: In an industry predicated on likeability, he really didn’t care if you liked him or not. He said what he thought — near the end of a lopsided game, he famously intoned: “If you promise to patronize our sponsors, you have permission to go walk the dog” — and if he happened to ruffle the tender sensibilities of listeners or management … well, tough.
Naturally, this made us like him all the more. The audience doesn’t mind if you’re a homer — truth to tell, Skip wasn’t much of one — but it hates a house man. Skip was the antithesis of that. He was the irreverent David Letterman when the real Letterman was still doing the weather back in Indianapolis. He was laugh-out-loud funny without ever once laughing at his own joke.
Sometimes the sarcasm got a tad thick. (When paired, he and Sutton seemed to care more about wisecracking than calling the game.) But Skip and Joe worked nicely together, and Skip and Pete were simply the best — Van Wieren would give us the numbers, and Skip would supply the attitude. Whether the year was 1982 or 2008, hearing those two voices made us feel a part of something that transcended beginnings and endings, something that always was and always would be.
But now the signature voice has been forever muted. No more, “Listen to this crowd!” No more, “There’s a drive …” No more choppers to Chipper. No more promos for “the award-winning Bobby Cox Show.” No more fans battling for the souvenir. No more gags. No more puns. Braves baseball will go on, but Braves baseball will never be the same.
Those who knew Skip were aware that his health had declined these past few years. There were nights this spring when you weren’t sure the halting voice would last through the next half-inning, and there were moments when you wondered if it mightn’t be better if Skip just hung it up. And then you answered your own question: No, it wouldn’t have been, because there was just one Skip, one cuddly curmudgeon, and when this one was gone there’d never be another.
The one and only Skip Caray died in his sleep Sunday. Ennobled by his life, we are, all of us, lessened by his passing. Feel free to shed a tear, to say a prayer, to smile over a remembered Skip-ism. But please, whatever you do, don’t start the Wave.
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By The_Future
August 3, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this
I can still remember his call on Bream’s slideslide like it was yesterday. As honest of an announcer as there ever was or will be. Can’t beat that….
RIP Skip
By A.J.
August 3, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this
RIP Skip. I will think of you whenever i watch and listen to the braves!
By Brian Poe
August 3, 2008 11:23 PM | Link to this
The Future. You should go to the main AJC on-line sports page. They have graciously posted Skip’s call of the Bream run that put us in the World Series. It is one of the most magical calls in baseball history, and certainly one of the top 3 in Atlanta sports history.
By UGAFan
August 3, 2008 11:25 PM | Link to this
Great article, Mark. We will miss him terribly.
By Drayton Xavier
August 3, 2008 11:26 PM | Link to this
I agree with The Future. That call was an Atlanta sports classic, one of the top 3 or 4 in our city’s history. By the way, the AJC has graciously posted Skip’s call of the Bream run that catapulted the Bravos into the World Series in the earliest days of the Bobby Cox championship years.
By Big Brad CH 99
August 3, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this
It won’t be quite the same. I loved listening to Skip, Pete, Joe, and Don call the games. Pete and Skip would do the 1st half on TV, and then go to the radio, while Don and Joe would do the 1st half on radio and then the TV, or vice versa.
We’ll miss ya Skip
By George P. Burdell
August 3, 2008 11:30 PM | Link to this
I’ll always cherish the entertaining calls, but my favorites were always the call in shows. I remember one caller asked “What is a walk-off homerun?”. He replied, “You hit a homerun, you walk off the field and end the game. It’s as simple as that, I don’t know how else to answer.”
He knew the game, he was a little surly, and he, despite growing up under another one, was one of a kind.
RIP Skip and you will always be there when we watch the Braves hit foul balls to someone from some small town in Georgia.
By Jeff H
August 3, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this
Goodbye Skip.
By Andrew
August 3, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this
To the voice that was the soundtrack of many drives to and from work … many late nights at the office … many college-age evenings in a dorm or at a desk, studying … and many wonderful moments on the field that we will never forget … our eternal thanks. Many have called Braves games in the past, and many more will in the future, but only Skip and Pete are the voices of the Braves — and always will be. Rest in peace, Skip … your wit will be in our ears forever.
By Chicago Ray
August 3, 2008 11:38 PM | Link to this
Yet another beloved Carey family announcer leaves us and leaves the baseball community a little more boring and it’s glory days farther and farther away. May you Rest in peace with your father Harry…
By DHD
August 3, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this
Thanks for 40 years of entertainment….through the good, bad and ugly, you were always fun. Thanks, Skip.
By Mr. Anderson
August 3, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this
This makes it the worst Braves season ever. And yes, this made me cry.
By Bart
August 3, 2008 11:44 PM | Link to this
There will never be another Skip Carey. He was the voice of the Braves. Skip will be missed and never forgotten. My condolences to the Carey family.
By Bart
August 3, 2008 11:45 PM | Link to this
There will never be another Skip Carey. He was the voice of the Braves. Skip will be missed and never forgotten. My condolences to the Carey family.
By spotts
August 3, 2008 11:45 PM | Link to this
I can’t believe Skip’s gone…
By Boo Boo
August 3, 2008 11:46 PM | Link to this
Skip would irritate the heck out of me by the way he would be the one to jinx the Braves, when a pitcher had a no-hitter going. He would say, “Okay, I’ll get this supersitition stuff out of the way now. (Fill-in-the-blank) has given up no hits so far, after 5 1/3 innings.” It always then followed, “There goes the no-hitter,” followed closely by, “There goes the shut out, so now we can focus on winning.”
By john letter
August 3, 2008 11:46 PM | Link to this
skip caray is by far the best sports announcer of all time….he made me a braves fan when i was a rabid phillies fan…he was the best sports announcer of all time and i am crying now that i know he has passed on..the greatest of his craft…..i will always respect him….he has millions of fans…skip we will miss you and never see another like you.
By John
August 3, 2008 11:46 PM | Link to this
As an Atlanta native that have been watching the Brave’s since the ’70s and listening to Skip when cable was just a gleam in Ted’s eye, I say: Skip, God bless you and your family. You are the best.
By Bart
August 3, 2008 11:47 PM | Link to this
There will never be another Skip Caray. He was the voice of the Braves. Skip will be missed and never forgotten. My condolences to the Caray family.
By ABravesFan
August 3, 2008 11:47 PM | Link to this
RIP Skip.
By Marty
August 3, 2008 11:47 PM | Link to this
I am a lifelong Braves fan who will be turning 29 in a few months. Although I’m not all that old, I’ve spent almost 25 of those years watching and listening to Atlanta Braves games — first, with my grandfather, who has now passed away, later with friends, and now sometimes with my wife. I hope someday to watch them with a son or daughter. Skip was, himself, like a grandfather, as strange as that sounds…always there to watch the Braves play with me, whether the game was good or a lost cause.
I’ve asked myself many times why I’ve bothered to keep watching or listening to the Braves when they are hopelessly behind. Of course, the answer is not just because I am a diehard fan, but because I love listening to Skip, Pete, and Joe. I’m not ashamed to say that I actually shed a tear when I heard the news this evening.
Things just won’t be the same without you, Skip. I hope that you are in a better place. We will miss you dearly.
By jojajacket
August 3, 2008 11:48 PM | Link to this
Thank you Skip.
By jmann
August 3, 2008 11:49 PM | Link to this
Losing Skip Carey is one of those things where you don’t know just how much you miss him until he leaves. If only that for so many years he was the fifth voice in a house of four and one of the last of the long-term voice-of-the-team announcers.
A Skip Carey couldn’t have made it into the seat he sat in for 33 years had he started today. Not network-asthetic enough. Too glib. Too nasal a voice. Fortunately, those things didn’t exist at the time, because otherwise we never would have known what we had at all.
By Pete in Fort Myers
August 3, 2008 11:49 PM | Link to this
I’ll never forget the call Skip used until Ted Turner made him quit saying it: “We’ve come to the bottom of another fifth.”
By sjs1959
August 3, 2008 11:54 PM | Link to this
he made Braves baseball Must-See TV before NBC thought of the term. He made bad baseball delightful and entertaining, and soared with the Braves to greatness in the ’90s. This is a loss from which it will be difficult for the Braves to recover.
R.I.P. Skip and condolences to his family and fans and his co-workers.
By MightyQuinn
August 3, 2008 11:55 PM | Link to this
I turned 50 three weeks ago and Skip has been there since I was 17, thats 66 per cent of my life. I enjoyed his call of Hawks games as much as baseball, with his declaration of “Its cocktail hour!” when the Hawks would win. But the humor was what was best, especially on the radio where the reigns were always a little looser. But the funniest moment I will always remember was the summer of ‘85 in L.A. The cameraman was showing a shot of a woman walking down the aisle in a neon green bikini. When she turned to go to her seat she showed a thong (unheard of 23 years ago) Skip and Pete got very quiet till Skip snickered,”That reminds of the butcher who backed into a saw and got a little behind in his work!” I fell out of my seat laughing. Godspeed, Skip Carey, you will never be forgotten.
By Shannon
August 3, 2008 11:56 PM | Link to this
I will still always hear Skip tell me that a fan from Lilburn, Hapeville, Greenville, or Birmingham got a souvenir with every foul ball. I will feel the pain of not hearing that wonderful familiar voice that’s been a part of my life as long as I can remember. He’s a part of all of our families and he will be missed.
By Steven
August 3, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this
I moved to Atlanta and went to my first baseball game in 1977, a year after Skip began broadcasting games for the Braves.
I was fortunate to attend the only playoff game in Atlanta when we played the St Louis Cardinals in 1982 and went to several of the NLCS and World Series games in the 1990’s.
Listening to Skip on the television and radio was like listening to your family. It was comfortable, sarcastic, soothing, funny and constant.
Skip made an art of announcing baseball games in an age when others just like to hear themselves on the air.
Here’s the pitch Skip…we’re going to miss you.
By Rob
August 3, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this
I am so shaken up. I loved listening to him. He was always there and always made the games fun. He was a large part of my summers. I know tomorrow I will listen to the game and I will miss him. Braves baseball will never be the same.
Braves fans should wear black to the next homegame.
By Bruce Beaulieu
August 3, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this
I left this for the family on the AJC’s guest book page.
Goodbye Skip. It has been quite a ride. Thanks for the lifts along the way.
I will always remember your “What’s green and white and red” joke during a ballgame in the 70’s (answer “a frog in a blender”).
You did it your way, you left your mark and for this you will be remembered. We all know that this wasn’t necessarily unexpected-your health has been too poor lately. I am sure that you were proud of the legacy that you have left behind.
A life well lived sir! I salute you!
Your family is not alone in their grief. Thanks for sharing Skip with us.
By Adele Ward
August 3, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this
Thank you Mark Bradley for an excellent memorial of Skip Carey. I will miss Skip’s work. I sought the radio broadcast when he was announcing. Watch tv but listen to Skip. Rest in Peace Skip Adele
By Steven
August 3, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this
I moved to Atlanta and went to my first baseball game in 1977, a year after Skip began broadcasting games for the Braves.
I was fortunate to attend the only playoff game in Atlanta when we played the St Louis Cardinals in 1982 and went to several of the NLCS and World Series games in the 1990’s.
Listening to Skip on the television and radio was like listening to your family. It was comfortable, sarcastic, soothing, funny and constant.
Skip made an art of announcing baseball games in an age when others just like to hear themselves on the air.
Here’s the pitch Skip…we’re going to miss you.
By Legend of Len Barker
August 3, 2008 11:59 PM | Link to this
I always loved Skip for his regular commentary more than the “Braves lead! Braves lead! Braves lead!” for Justice in 1991, “Braves win! Braves win! Braves win!” for Bream in 1992, or “Yes! Yes! Yes!” for the Series in 1995.
I’ll miss him guessing the hometown of fans in the stands, I’ll miss the guessing game over Sid Fernandez’s weight, I’ll miss the complaints about Commissioner ESPN.
Van Weiren and Caray were the greatest, but I really enjoyed his days with Simpson. Constantly making fun of Oklahoma (“what are the words to that fight song?”), and my personal favorite broadcast moment, the night of the hot dog.
Caray: “Fans, if you come to the ballpark - and I hope you do - if you order a hot dog, make sure it’s well done.”
A few minutes later, Skip merely added to Simpson about the broadcasting duties, “it’s all yours, buddy.” We didn’t hear from him the rest of the night.
He and Joe giving out the Braves representatives for the All-Star game (“it’s all just speculation”) and way it was delivered was gold as well.
Folks, if you can, seek out a copy of his and Don Farmer’s book, Roomies. Mr. Caray tells some simply marvelous stories. I only wish he could have written a thorough autobiography. Pete Van Wieren mentioned that he was considering a book deal. I hope he does and I hope there are stories about the era of “punchline of the day,” ostriches, and hotels in Montreal.
We’ll miss you, Skip.
By Sandro from the Biennale
August 3, 2008 11:59 PM | Link to this
Well done Bradley. Skip is one of the reasons I fell in love with the Braves. I never heard another one like him, and never will. We lost a great one.
By David C
August 4, 2008 12:00 AM | Link to this
Skip wasn’t perfect. None of us are. But he had a personality most of us loved. Good bye Skip. I grew up with your voice on a summer night and I’m grateful for that.
By Steven
August 4, 2008 12:00 AM | Link to this
I moved to Atlanta and went to my first baseball game in 1977, a year after Skip began broadcasting games for the Braves.
I was fortunate to attend the only playoff game in Atlanta when we played the St Louis Cardinals in 1982 and went to several of the NLCS and World Series games in the 1990’s.
Listening to Skip on the television and radio was like listening to your family. It was comfortable, sarcastic, soothing, funny and constant.
Skip made an art of announcing baseball games in an age when others just like to hear themselves on the air.
Here’s the pitch Skip…we’re going to miss you.
By Conyers
August 4, 2008 12:00 AM | Link to this
I fell in love with baseball because of skip. I use to listen to his games on AM 750 when I was 10 because I was waiting on weather reports. My life long love of baseball is in thanks to him. I use to turn on the tv and put it on mute and turn on the radio to listen to him announce the game. Thanks Skip. For giving me baseball, and the braves. Carry on
By Mark Bradley
August 4, 2008 12:01 AM | Link to this
This column was written in 55 minutes. I mention that only because the fastest column I’ve ever written — rewritten completely, actually, in 20 minutes — came on the night of Skip’s most famous call, the night Sid Bream slid home.
By athdog
August 4, 2008 12:06 AM | Link to this
I’m old enough to remember Skip doing Hawks games back when Zelmo Beatty, Dan Roundfield, ‘Sweet’ Lou Hudson, Bill Bridges, JoJo Caldwell, et al were part of the team. He was a fantastic basketball play by play guy and, of course, even better as THE voice of the Braves.
Long ago he made summer evenings of listening to Gil Garrido, Larvell ‘Sugar Bear’ Blanks, and other forgettable Braves players entertaining and enjoyable. The run of the 90’s would not have been the same without him. His call of Bream’s slide to win the 92 NLCS was the stuff of legend.
We’ll all smile the next time someone asks some call-in show host to explain the infield fly rule. Rest easy, you’ve done well.
By Bob Greene
August 4, 2008 12:07 AM | Link to this
This column was written in 55 minutes. I mention that only because the fastest column I’ve ever written — rewritten completely, actually, in 20 minutes
Thanks for writing it TONIGHT Mark.
By Random
August 4, 2008 12:08 AM | Link to this
Both my sister-in-law and my sister called this evening to let my mother know about Skip.
When I answered the second call, the first thing my sister said was “How’s Mom doing?”
Skip was a big and much-loved part of many Braves families. We’ll all miss him.
By braves70
August 4, 2008 12:10 AM | Link to this
Losing Skip is like losing a cherished part of summer. I was 12 when Skip started broadcasting Braves games and he was a part of every summer since then. I always loved his humor. Like his Dad, listening to Skip was like sitting at a game with your best friend.
My favorite memory of Skip would be that marathon 4th of July game with the Mets in 1986. I was young and stayed up to see the entire game. As the Braves were down to their final swings, pitcher Rick Camp came to the plate. In something like the Twilight Zone, Skip said something like “What would it say about life if Rick Camp hit a home run now.” Rod Serling would have smiled as Camp then proceeded to hit a home run and the game continued. Skip commented about that night that it was the first time he got home at 5 AM and had a legitimate excuse.
Thank you my dear friend for being a part of my life these last 30 years. You were the best!
By David
August 4, 2008 12:11 AM | Link to this
Wow.
I’m so stunned and saddened with this news.As if the Braves and the fans havent had enough this year.This is the worst.I remember Skip and Pete calling games with Ernie back when i started following Braves back in 1980.Skip was very loyal.And made a bad game or good game like a comical skit.I had the pleasure of Talking to a few times at Turner field to Pete his calling buddy.I asked him how Skip was.I will allways remember your c alls.When ever i watch or listen or attend a braves game.I will take a moment to think of you.Now heaven has not 1 but 2 of the best.Skip and Harry..
RIP Skip…We all will miss you.
By DJ GREENSBORO
August 4, 2008 12:13 AM | Link to this
I still have a yellow t-shirt with Skip’s charicature on it when it was sold on the air during the first year on WTBS. A saying of his that hasn’t been mentioned was on the shirt which he said after every infrequent victory in those days. So Skip, now that poor health will plague you no longer, you can say once again, “It’s Cocktail Hour!” Thanks for decades of humor and truth. Another piece of my childhood has left me tonight.
By Mike
August 4, 2008 12:14 AM | Link to this
Like Larry Munson to UGA, Skip was someone always associated with the Braves in my life’s memory, and one more icon is taken from us. I’m proud the sons will take up the torch passed on by Grand Dad and Dad. We enjoyed you, Skip!
By john hoar
August 4, 2008 12:15 AM | Link to this
Personally, I have a hard time coming on a public forum and showing my emotions, although I admire so many of you that do it so eloquently. In this case, I simply have to tell,his family, and everyone who was his friend, how very much he has meant to me over the years. Might not have watched or listened to those thousands of games without Skip. We will miss you and thank you. It will be hard to listen or watch a game and not think about Skip.
By David
August 4, 2008 12:16 AM | Link to this
Players come and go. Broadcasters these days are almost as transitory. For all but two years of my life, Skip and Pete have been at the mic. We were so lucky to have Skip for all those years. My heart hurt when I saw he was gone. There’s never enough time. Goodbye Skip.
By George Holman
August 4, 2008 12:18 AM | Link to this
The Voice of the Braves. Period. End of Sentence!
We will all miss you!!
By Tami
August 4, 2008 12:19 AM | Link to this
I’m at quite a loss, slightly in shock, and just so very sad right now. Skip - for me - was the voice of the Braves. And, in the early 90’s, I credit him as one of those who gave me my early lessons into the inner workings of MLB as I became a true, diehard Braves fan. Listening to Braves’ games just won’t be the same any more without Skip. It’s the end of a an era for sure. I’m so sad for Chip & Josh, as well. I know that each of them will carry on their dad’s & grandfather’s legacies very capably. But, right now…I feel I’ve lost a friend. There will never be another Skip.
By Marty
August 4, 2008 12:20 AM | Link to this
In a season where so much has gone wrong for the Braves and their fans, today must be the official end to the Braves dynasty. Sure, the Braves could win the World Series next year, but without Skip to call it for us, it just won’t be the same.
The Braves will start winning again one of these seasons, but we’ll never have Skip back. I’d gladly suffer through ten more losing seasons just to have Skip there to call them.
The fans love you more than you will ever know, Skip.
By Mark Bradley
August 4, 2008 12:21 AM | Link to this
You’re welcome, Bob. Skip was a good man.
One little Skip (plus others) story: In the summer of 1992 I was on the road with the Braves in Cincinnati — the Reds were then leading the NL West, if you’ll recall, and the Braves were chasing — and three of the four announcers (Skip, Pete and Joe) went out to dinner with I.J. Rosenberg and myself at one of Jeff Ruby’s fancy riverfront restaurants on a Saturday night. (There were seven in our party, as I recall.)
After a few hours of food and frolic, the waiter brought the bill and I, seeking to be a nice fellow, said: “I don’t travel with you guys all that much — let me get this one.” Whereupon I opened the folder and saw said bill: $550. (Plus another $5.50 for the smelling salts to revive me.)
All the way back to the car, I kept saying to I.J., “What if the paper won’t let me write this off on expenses? Huh? Huh?” And he kept saying, “Don’t worry — they will.” And they did. But I learned a lesson that night: Baseball announcers really enjoy fine dining.
By Tom Lea
August 4, 2008 12:21 AM | Link to this
One of the all-time greats. My favorite comment came shortly after Ted Turner forbid his newscasters on CNN from using the word “foreign” since his network had developed a global reach. Instead, they were to use the word “international.” Being a loyal employee of Mr. Turner… Skip was calling a Braves game when the batter called time and backed of the batter’s box, as Skip explained, because “he had an international object in his eye.”
By Jason
August 4, 2008 12:26 AM | Link to this
RIP Skip. You played a major part in turning a 6 year old small town Wyoming kid into a lifelong Braves fan which has brought tremendous joy. I’ll be forever grateful. Thank you for always telling it like it is. You’ll be sorely missed. Prayers to your family and friends.
By princetonbrave
August 4, 2008 12:26 AM | Link to this
Rest in peace Skip. You were a gift to us.
By Andy Tynes
August 4, 2008 12:28 AM | Link to this
I ran into Skip in the Delta Crown Room in 1993. I told him that I had grown up listening to his broadcasts of Hawks and Braves games, how great I thought he was, etc. etc. His reply? “If you run into my boss, please tell him what you just told me. Maybe he’ll give me a raise!” Then he laughed, and patted me on the back as he walked away. Always the fun-loving smart aleck.
For me, he will always be the voice of the Braves. There will never be another announcer like Skip. I’ll miss him terribly. Rest in peace, Skip. The Braves Nation mourns your passing.
By Thunderdan2000
August 4, 2008 12:30 AM | Link to this
I’ll echo the sentiments of everyone here and say that the broadcasts will never be the same. Skip made the broadcasts entertaining when the games were not, and his call of Sid at home still gives me goose bumps all these years later. I just cannot believe it! RIP Skip, and condolences to his family, friends and Braves family.
By ExATLinPDX
August 4, 2008 12:31 AM | Link to this
I am 34 years old and an Atlanta native who moved away about a decade ago. I started actively listening to Braves games when I was six and kept on listening, through the good times and the bad time. And what made the bad teams worth enduring was the chemistry between Skip and Pete. How many times did I stay up late in my room on a school night, transistor radio pressed close to my ear, having Skip the curmudgeon talk me to sleep as he announced a west coast Braves game? I feel like part of my childhood, not to mention my adolescence, and young adulthood, just died. RIP Skip.
By sdearth
August 4, 2008 12:32 AM | Link to this
I never met the man, but I felt as if I’d known him for 20 years. Never a boring moment. Hope his family can continue the tradition. Good luck and our best to the family.
By Brad
August 4, 2008 12:34 AM | Link to this
Skip want have to explain the infield fly rule anymore (which he loved) or worry about stepping on downed power lines. I am now 32, the passing of Skip is like part of my childhood is now passed away. Braves baseball will never be the same for me with out Skip. RIP Skip, you and you dad drink one for me in that press box in the sky.
By prattvillenolzfan
August 4, 2008 12:35 AM | Link to this
I wish all of the JERKS @TBS are paying attention to this column…Bradley is getting responses from people all over the United States about how they grew up listening to Skip on TBS…..
Too bad they/or their kids won’t be able to anymore…..
By Ronald Millsaps
August 4, 2008 12:36 AM | Link to this
I was very surprised to learn earlier tonight that Skip Caray had passed away. As Tom Glavine referred to, his health seemed to be on the upswing. He certainly seemed to be doing well. I can’t articulate how much I enjoyed listening to him over the years, but when I was a kid, he really was the perfect selection for bringing the game into your home, and I mean that. As Chipper Jones alluded to, he was as much a part of this organization as anyone else. My prayers will be with the Caray family. As much a shock as this event is to me, I know they are enduring a lot of sorrow.
By 2 out in the 6th
August 4, 2008 12:36 AM | Link to this
Skip, you will be missed.
My favorite call ever by Skip, when referring to a young couple in the empty upper deck back in the 80s :
“He kisses her on the strikes and she kisses him on the balls”
By Pete H.
August 4, 2008 12:39 AM | Link to this
The day we finally got cable in New England, I couldn’t wait to see my first Braves game (it was around 1980 and I had been a Braves fan virtually unable to see the Braves play for 20 years). The first thing that struck me (remember, this was a very bad team) was how the announcers didn’t really make excuses. Unlike the homer Mets and Yankees announcers and the virtually catatonic Red Sox announcers, they were involved in the game, but when it got ugly, they were as disgusted as I was.
Apart from the Bream slide, the things I remember best are the nights we got Smoltz for Alexander and McGriff for Nieves and two warm bodies. Skip was up on who Smoltz was and had been predicting the McGriff trade for days, assuring us it would not be Klesko going the other way, as others were reporting.
Even in the dog days of another last place finish, he made the game fun and you knew he wasn’t shining you on.
He’s a Hall of Famer, and I’ve missed him greatly ever since TBS dropped Braves games.
RIP, Skip.
By Choppinmama
August 4, 2008 12:40 AM | Link to this
I just heard this sad news a few minutes ago and am just so sick at heart. As someone said earlier, the Voice of the Braves is forever silent. At least he won’t have to contend with that downtown traffic nightmare that he used to delight in complaining about.
And I guess we’ll never know his secret in identifying all those GA folks that caught those foul balls!
Rest in peace, Skip.
By Greg
August 4, 2008 12:40 AM | Link to this
One of favorite memories. Skip was broadcasting with Don Sutton, and got into a long story about Sutton’s ex-Dodger teammate Steve Sax. Fairly near the end of his career, Sax — who played second base — developed a problem throwing the ball to the first baseman. After relating all the history, Skip asked Sutton if he was in touch with Sax, and wrapped up the whole segment by saying something like “… maybe you really should phone sax.” As I recall, it was two minutes of radio time just to set up that line. Which, of course, was delivered completely deadpan. Before I moved to Georgia from Chicago, I got to hear Harry Carey calling both the White Sox and the Cubs. Both were great announcers, but Skip’s wit and cleverness really stood out. He’ll be missed.
By Sam
August 4, 2008 12:42 AM | Link to this
When I was five years old, my family moved to Atlanta. It was January of 1991 — just months later, the Braves went worst to first and I was hooked for life.
I remember jumping up and down on my parents’ bed when Sid slid. I remember celebrating in the center field stands after Game 6. I remember Chris Burke’s home run nearly bringing me to tears as a 19-year-old.
But along with all that, I remember Skip’s voice during a lazy summer night as I sat on the couch with my dad watching the Bravos in Montreal — Skip could make even ugly old Olympic Stadium bearable. I remember begging my parents to change the dial every 30 miles so that Skip would stay with us on road trips. I remember muting the ESPN telecasts and tuning in to WSB. I remember asking, “How does he know where every fan is from?” And I remember purchasing MLB radio as a college freshman in Nashville because Skip’s voice made it feel just a bit more like home.
The Braves were an irreplaceable part of my childhood, and as an irreplaceable part of the Braves, so was Skip. Rest in peace, Mr. Caray — I wish we could “have it to do all over again.”
By bonzo
August 4, 2008 12:43 AM | Link to this
And you can’t forget his foul ball calls during Bark at the Park nights…and that ball was snagged by a Weimaraner from Newnan…he didn’t take it all that seriously and that’s how I’ll remember him.
By Dawg88
August 4, 2008 12:50 AM | Link to this
I am almost speechless! What else will happen this season? Sad Day Indeed!
Thanks Skip!
God Bless!
By regularfan
August 4, 2008 12:53 AM | Link to this
I sure will miss Skip. The way he would makeup locations that fans were from when they caught a foul ball, I just assumed he was making up the stadium location name when he said a foul ball went into the Lexus Level.
By Don
August 4, 2008 12:54 AM | Link to this
Thanks to AJC for sharing that most memorable Skip Caray call of the final 1992 NLCS game between the Braves and Pirates. Our family was at the game that night sitting in the upper deck just to the left field side of home plate. After the Braves batted in the bottom of the 8th inning, many “fans” began to leave the old Fulton County stadium thinking the Braves were finished. Many of us “die hard” Braves fans booed the fans that were leaving and were we so glad that we stayed to the final play. When Sid Bream slid home and the umpire called him safe, I don’t think I’ve ever heard or seen a stadium erupt into such joyous bedlam at once - people jumping, hugging, high-fiveing anyone and everyone around them. I was listening to Carey’s call on earphones as it happened and I will never forget it. On the way home, we laughed about those poor bums that left the game early and missed probably one of the greatest moments in Braves baseball history. Skip Caray was one of a kind and will be foreever missed by all true Braves fans.
By Don
August 4, 2008 12:55 AM | Link to this
Thanks to AJC for sharing that most memorable Skip Caray call of the final 1992 NLCS game between the Braves and Pirates. Our family was at the game that night sitting in the upper deck just to the left field side of home plate. After the Braves batted in the bottom of the 8th inning, many “fans” began to leave the old Fulton County stadium thinking the Braves were finished. Many of us “die hard” Braves fans booed the fans that were leaving and were we so glad that we stayed to the final play. When Sid Bream slid home and the umpire called him safe, I don’t think I’ve ever heard or seen a stadium erupt into such joyous bedlam at once - people jumping, hugging, high-fiveing anyone and everyone around them. I was listening to Carey’s call on earphones as it happened and I will never forget it. On the way home, we laughed about those poor bums that left the game early and missed probably one of the greatest moments in Braves baseball history. Skip Caray was one of a kind and will be foreever missed by all true Braves fans.
By Stunned
August 4, 2008 12:58 AM | Link to this
Goodbye, Skip. I know people from coast to coast, myself included, who grew up listening to the Braves become a dominant power with you guiding us through every step. The call of Bream’s slide into home is the most memorable call in Braves history, sans Hank’s home run. Never have I heard someone so genuinely excited for a team on the air. Incredibly sad to hear he’s gone.
By Legend of Len Barker
August 4, 2008 12:58 AM | Link to this
Other Skip memories:
He and it must have been Don somehow got into a conversation about which piece of chicken they chose as children. Don always got the drumstick. Skip’s piece of choice? The neck.
Turner told them to broadcast the fireworks show one year after the game. Skip wasn’t sure how to do that. He guessed that they were supposed to say “oooh” and “aahhh” after every blast.
“When [Kevin] Mitchell hits into the 6-4-3, The Magnificent Seven will be coming on. Six. Four. Three. Hope that movie’s ready!”
Caray told this one in his book. He and another colleague had a few drinks before a Hawks game he was broadcasting on radio. By halftime, he felt a slight need to urinate. As he was the one-man crew for halftime interviews, that was out of the question. The urge grew stronger as the game progressed. Of course, it went into overtime. His bladder was in agony. Then someone hit a shot to send it into another overtime. How did he alleviate his situation? He spotted an empty Coke cup and managed to broadcast and relieve himself at the same time. He does think, though, that he left the filled cup under the table.
Pete was going over stats of a pitcher who was entering the game. Lots of stats. Skip interjected in the middle of it, “And he’s a big boy, too!” in reference to the reliever’s weight.
By Tony Ingalls
August 4, 2008 1:03 AM | Link to this
God Bless Skip Caray. He made me into a baseball fan at age 13. He called a game like he was sitting on the couch right next to you and eating from a shared bag of chips. When you were excited, he was excited, when you were upset, he was upset… the simple honesty that he broadcast will not be seen again… It makes you wonder how anyone reads a promo for the upcoming 32nd post game airing of “Turner & Hooch” and does not laugh. God Bless the Caray family.
By Matt Towery
August 4, 2008 1:10 AM | Link to this
Mark, as usual you have captured my sentiments exactly. I still remember Skip, and I think of Pete (could have been Ernie) making a big deal out of some small town Fourth of July parade around 1980, where the big draw, other than the broadcasters, was an inflatable “Mr. Twinkie” We laughed about that for years. I doubt, given my job of covering politicians, anyone will ever sign a guest book or say a kind word. But I hope Skip’s family knows that those of us who perform in Atlanta media (sports, politics, what’s the difference?) know that this man put Atlanta on the map. God bless Skip and his family. Matt Towery—InsiderAdvantage/WSB-TV
By Hasell Brown
August 4, 2008 1:14 AM | Link to this
One of my favorite Skipisms: “There goes the Singing Beer Man…he’s at it again!”
Skip always had his moments with me…and no matter how bad the game was…we were always laughing together….
Thanks, Skip…for your love!
My heart breaks because you’ve left us…but Harry and Mom are glad to see you again….
May the family be eternally blessed…..
I raise my glass to honor your spirit!!
“Singing Beer Man” - 1984-1990
By Darren
August 4, 2008 1:16 AM | Link to this
I’m sad. Heartbroken. Skip is my favorite broadcaster of all time.
I’m 33 years from Las Vegas, NV. Got hooked on the Braves in 1982 at age 7 watching the Braves on TBS. Skip was awesome.
My favorite memory of Skip was one day when he and Joe were giving each other good natured ribbing. Joe had just used Skip as the butt of one of his jokes. Skip simply replied with “And the horse you rode in on.” He was obviously saying the tail end of the famous quote F U and the horse you rode in on. That had me laughing for days and I still crack up when I think of that. Funny, sarcastic moments like that is why he was the best.
God speed Skip. I’ll miss you.
Darren McArthur
By Darren
August 4, 2008 1:16 AM | Link to this
I’m sad. Heartbroken. Skip is my favorite broadcaster of all time.
I’m 33 years from Las Vegas, NV. Got hooked on the Braves in 1982 at age 7 watching the Braves on TBS. Skip was awesome.
My favorite memory of Skip was one day when he and Joe were giving each other good natured ribbing. Joe had just used Skip as the butt of one of his jokes. Skip simply replied “And the horse you rode in on.” He was obviously saying the tail end of the famous quote F U and the horse you rode in on. That had me laughing for days and I still crack up when I think of that. Funny, sarcastic moments like that is why he was the best.
God speed Skip. I’ll miss you.
Darren McArthur
By Darren
August 4, 2008 1:16 AM | Link to this
I’m sad. Heartbroken. Skip is my favorite broadcaster of all time.
I’m 33 years from Las Vegas, NV. Got hooked on the Braves in 1982 at age 7 watching the Braves on TBS. Skip was awesome.
My favorite memory of Skip was one day when he and Joe were giving each other good natured ribbing. Joe had just used Skip as the butt of one of his jokes. Skip simply replied “And the horse you rode in on.” He was obviously saying the tail end of the famous quote F U and the horse you rode in on. That had me laughing for days and I still crack up when I think of that. Funny, sarcastic moments like that is why he was the best.
God speed Skip. I’ll miss you.
Darren McArthur
By Mark Bradley
August 4, 2008 1:18 AM | Link to this
Thanks, Matt. I much appreciate it.
By Darren
August 4, 2008 1:22 AM | Link to this
Sorry guys. That was only suppose to post one time. Oops.
Great article by the way Mark.
By Alex Hoxeng
August 4, 2008 1:24 AM | Link to this
I can remember listening to Skip Karay at the age of 10. I will for ever miss that nasally voice, and those nasally Verizon Wireless calls to the Bull Pen. No more.
By Marty
August 4, 2008 1:25 AM | Link to this
By the way, thanks for the article, Mark — as silly as it sounds, the news has rendered me unable to sleep, and it helped to read your words and the words of so many other fans who enjoyed Skip’s wit and enthusiasm over the years.
By Coach ( What a heartbreaking day)
August 4, 2008 1:26 AM | Link to this
Growing up in Columbus, I spent many a late night with the transistor radio and earplug safely tucked under my pillow, falling asleep listening to Skip and Pete calling games on the west coast. Mom and Dad never knew. It didn’t matter whether the team was competitive or not, these two gentlemen were as entertaining as two people could be.
They seemingly had the art of putting you right in the seats down to a science. I always felt as if I were at the game itself. Whenever I drove up to Atlanta to take in a game on the weekend at Fulton County I was always sure to bring the radio so as to listen to the broadcast even as I was seeing it in person.
Skip, you were one of a kind. Those radio broadcast made me a lifelong Braves fan and that is just about the best complement that any individual of your caliber can be given. God bless and my heartfelt prayers go out to your wife and kids.
By John
August 4, 2008 1:26 AM | Link to this
Summertime in the South will never be the same. He was in our living room more often than most friends or family, and as such became part of the family. To touch so many who he never even met, Skip is the epitome of a life well lived. I feel like I’ve lost my best friend.
By Mark Bradley
August 4, 2008 1:32 AM | Link to this
Thanks to one and all. I’m having trouble falling asleep, too. It’s a sad night, but it’s a night that prompts a thousand warm memories.
By Tom R.
August 4, 2008 1:32 AM | Link to this
Great column as usual Mark. You help us through the ups and downs. I will miss Skip deeply. In addition to his knowledge of the game and the team, he taught me to enjoy the game. He was bothered by the “Erin Andrews” ization of baseball productions….people who know nothing about the team throwing numbers and stats that amount to babble. Skip was passionate about the game and the team and he didn’t need a team of graphics artists and statisticians to communicate that.
I remember how much Skip used to look forward to visits from the Ice Cream Lady. Another way he kept us tuned in to games during the Eddie Haas era.
I feel like I’ve lost a lost a close friend tonight. Thanks Skip - you will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.
By Brent
August 4, 2008 1:49 AM | Link to this
Gosh, reading this news makes me feel awful inside. I remember the Sid Bream call like it was yesterday. As a little kid my mom, brother, sister and I were all watching the game (it was past our bedtime) and I remember all of us jumping up and down on the bed hugging and screaming. Skip you will be missed by all Braves fans. I do hope that the Braves show you the respect that you deserve and build a statue of you next to all the past Brave greats. Wish we could have you forever but that wasn’t God’s plan. May you rest in peace.
By NCBravesFan
August 4, 2008 1:59 AM | Link to this
So long Skip! I became a Braves fan in part because of Skip and the others in the booth during the bad years, which seems to have returned, so I don’t know how I will make it through the rest of this year. You, Sir, will be greatly missed!!
By chris
August 4, 2008 2:01 AM | Link to this
Mark- brilliant as usual. thanks.
By DirtyDawg
August 4, 2008 2:07 AM | Link to this
No matter how infuriating Skip could be with his treatment of callers when he was doing his call-in show…he brought an irreverence that delighted us. I’ll always remember that when he was calling the Hawks games and his buddy Jiggs McDonald was doing the Flames, I thought we had the best two announcers in the game. Don’t know if anybody else thought it, but I used to say he sounded like David Brinkley doing basketball.
It strikes me that somebody, Pete, Joe, somebody, needs to pull an Ensign Pulver and at a home game soon, come out with a ‘What’s all this crap about paving the downtown connector tonight?’ Yeah, somebody needs to keep the pressure on the DOT…Skip would be proud.
By chris
August 4, 2008 2:08 AM | Link to this
I remember a great Skip line from back when Keith Olbermann was the anchor on Fox and there were billboards of him on the outfield wall.
someone doubled off the wall and Skip said “He just got a chance to do what a lot of us would like to do——hit Keith Olbermann in the face.”
By Enuffzenuff
August 4, 2008 2:14 AM | Link to this
Been a Braves fan for 20 years, since I was five. This almost feels like a member of the family died. Braves baseball to me was and is the team and Skip, Pete, Joe and Don. Truly a sad day. We’ll miss you Skip.
By Brad
August 4, 2008 2:18 AM | Link to this
My Favorite Skipism: The Braves were playing the Reds I believe and a relief pitcher whose last name was Coffee had just entered the game for the Reds. Skip comes back after the call to the bullpen and says, “Well, the Braves are going to try to cream coffee here in the 7th.” He was hilarious!
By Brad
August 4, 2008 2:19 AM | Link to this
My Favorite Skipism: The Braves were playing the Reds I believe and a relief pitcher whose last name was Coffee had just entered the game for the Reds. Skip comes back after the call to the bullpen and says, “Well, the Braves are going to try to cream coffee here in the 7th.” He was hilarious!
By Tampaparrotthead
August 4, 2008 2:23 AM | Link to this
Mark… thanks for saying what so many of us are feeling tonight.
Grown men all across America are shedding a tear tonight not only because a good man has left this world, but also because the voice of a big part of our childhood, teen years, early adult years and now our middle years is silenced, and we’ve all lost a good friend. He might not have known us by name, but he knew us as fans from Macon, Adairsville, Columbus, Powder Springs, Fitzgerald, Statesboro and everywhere in between… and he did know us. And last year as TBS broadcasted it’s last Braves game he let us know it, and he let us know that he appreciated us, and in his own way, that he loved us. And we loved him.
And now Skip, one more time… can you explain the infield fly rule?
By Joe Piercey Jr
August 4, 2008 2:24 AM | Link to this
Skip, Pete and others have done great work during the 1991-forward era, but during this time, they have had help from the team. I remember, even more fondly, the earlier time, the late 70’s and the 80’s (other than 82-83) when the Braves were just awful. Ernie, Skip and Pete were the show. And as great as Ernie was and Pete is, Skip was the show stealer every night. He was one of the most naturally funny people I have ever listened to. And, while he would lampoon poor play, his bosses, baseball hierarchy, tv executives, the road destruction people and anyone else who caught his eye, he always respected the game. That’s why his calls are so memorable. In the free agent era, the announcers are the people that the fans connect to. We always knew that Skip was one of us. That’s the main way he resembled his dad. Thanks for everything, sir!
By Chris F
August 4, 2008 2:27 AM | Link to this
thanks so much Skip. You were the most unique broadcaster, and always entertaining. Thanks for giving us Chip. He is excellent and will carry on the legacy.
By dave
August 4, 2008 2:32 AM | Link to this
Thanks, Skip. I will always think of you when I think of the Braves. I live in Staten Island, NY now, but I have been a fan of the Braves since 1983. I grew up in Cleveland, TN. I remember many of the hard times in Brave’s history, but I have also seen the glory days. They wouldn’t have meant so much if you hadn’t been there to tell me about them. I am so sorry for your loss, Chip. We will always have the memories. Not just ‘92 or ‘95, but the magical run in 1991, winning eight straight to win the west, or winning the west by one game in ‘93 when the Giants won 103 games. Remember when Murph was second in the active players consecutive games played streak behind Cal Ripken and sliced open his hand diving into the wall? No one thought he would play the next day. He hit a pinch hit homer to continue the streak. I could go on, but thanks, Skip. It won’t be the same without you.
Lot of Love
By SandyB
August 4, 2008 2:53 AM | Link to this
My family used to get a kick out of hearing Skip answer the sometimes stupid (and oft repeated) questions during his call-in show. We made up a list of the “Top Ten All Time Stupid Questions” (gathered over a season or 2) and sent them up to him during a ball game. Explaining the infield fly rule was one, another was “What are the Braves going to do about Fred McGriff?”
thanks to everyone for sharing their memories tonight….they made me laugh at a very sad time. We will all certainly miss a great guy and an extraordinary broadcaster!!!!
By AndrewS
August 4, 2008 2:55 AM | Link to this
Skip, you were simply the best. A little insurance never hurts!
By TheAntiMe
August 4, 2008 3:00 AM | Link to this
I was always happy as a Braves fan before Skip started announcing for the Braves because I had a home team to root for and sometimes they would even win which was a real bonus in most of those days.
Skip made rooting for the Braves so much more fun, especially in the lean years, as he could always make me laugh - seemingly without even trying - just with his fun and witty personality. The first decade he was with the Braves was really much more fun and entertaining thanks to his unique way of looking at things and, of course, the crazy antics of his boss, Ted Turner.
I don’t know if he was always appreciated as much as he deserved to be as Skip was so interesting as a personality that it was easy to just totally take for granted his talent as a sports announcer. He was my favorite announcer and he will surely be missed.
By Tokyo Tom
August 4, 2008 3:09 AM | Link to this
There was a picture in the old Timothy Johns bar taken the night in 1981 when the Braves beat the Padres to win the NL West: Ted Turner and the San Diego Chicken were chugging champagne with Skip calling the play-by-play in his usual dead-pan manner. Man those teams from the 70’s and 80’s were bad but Skip made them bearable!
My favorite Skip-ism came from the Hawks games: at the point when the outcome was no longer in doubt he would let you know “It’s Cocktail Hour!” I still use that line today to let my wife know she can turn the channel from the Hawks game on TV (just like in the 70’s usually just after the beginning of the 4th quarter)
By JB
August 4, 2008 3:09 AM | Link to this
Great article, Mark.
I never realized how much I missed Skip until he wasn’t doing many TBS games anymore and I couldn’t see the local telecasts. Funny how that works, huh? I took him for granted until he wasn’t around anymore.
I think it’s also great that everyone remembers Skip’s call on the Bream slide. If I remember, CBS broadcast that game with Sean McDonaugh and Tim McCarver…their call was so anticlimactic that we all have gravitated to Skip’s call on radio as being what we really heard at the time!
Great stories tonight, thanks for sharing. So nice to hear that he touched people all over the nation and not just Atlanta. His outlooks on life reminded me a lot of Lewis Grizzard, another of our voices who left too soon. May peace be with he and his family.
By Ken Dickson
August 4, 2008 3:35 AM | Link to this
I always loved the way he ended a broadcast…
Good night, eav er wre body!
What a guy. Such a ledgend. I’ll miss you Skip. Godspeed, and job well done.
It was just a ballgame. Thanks, Skip.
By jmann
August 4, 2008 3:37 AM | Link to this
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But really, that was the best time to watch a Braves game, since when it was a 12-1 game in the 6th inning Skip was likely to say anything and usually did.
By BravesFan79
August 4, 2008 3:37 AM | Link to this
Good job Mark,
Man i can remember Skips call on Bream like it was yesterday!! God Bless.
By Rick
August 4, 2008 3:41 AM | Link to this
I’ll turn 50 in November and wonder how much of that time I’ve spent listening to the Braves and Skip on TBS. By the way, is TBS still on the air?? RIP Skip, I’m gonna miss ya!
By Susan
August 4, 2008 3:43 AM | Link to this
I will miss Skip so much.
RIP, my friend.
By Susan
August 4, 2008 3:43 AM | Link to this
I will miss Skip so much.
RIP, my friend.
By Hoke
August 4, 2008 3:54 AM | Link to this
I will miss those wonderful “Skipisms” and can’t agree more with the article, don’t do the wave! Great article over at ESPN too, Chipper’s quote was very true…”What else can go wrong this year?”
By Najeh Davenpoop
August 4, 2008 3:55 AM | Link to this
Wherever he is right now, I just hope nobody needs to ask him what slugging percentage is.
By jed
August 4, 2008 3:57 AM | Link to this
sad, sad news. viva skip!
By Drexel Gal
August 4, 2008 4:13 AM | Link to this
In 1979, he advised viewers that they could “turn off their televisions and go to bed … but patronize our sponsors”. That year, the two worst teams in the NL, in won-lost records AND attendance, were the Braves and Mets. The Braves were managed by Bobby Cox and the Mets were managed by Joe Torre. Perhaps the two most respected managers in the game today. Caray bridged the gap.
By Carolina Matt
August 4, 2008 4:14 AM | Link to this
“And a fan from Kansas City comes away with the foul ball,” Skip said early in the second inning during a game a few years ago.
“Kansas City?” Pete replied, a little surprised.
“Yeah,” Skip said, “must be in on vacation.”
I was born in Atlanta in 1985 bleeding Braves red a blue. The reason had mainly been my father her has loved the team since moving here in 1978 from Ohio. He had taken my mom and older sister to playoff games in 1982 when she was less than two months old.
The Braves have been there for me since birth. Through the ups and downs of adolences, Skip and Pete were the calming voices of reason. A bad day would always end with my good friends bringing me the story of my favorite team.
Skip and Pete will always remind me of how great it was just to ride around with dad and listen to the game, regardless of the score. Skip rarely did TV anymore and I have since moved to Carolina, but I will never forget the warmth and comfort I received from a cheap transistor radio night in and night out.
I’ve always imagined that heaven is just a warm passenger seat in a car tuned to a staticy 750AM as Skip and Pete bring me a another Braves victory.
By Tony Panzarella
August 4, 2008 4:21 AM | Link to this
In 1975, Skip and Jiggs McDonald (who was then broadcasting ATLANTA Flames games) hosted a Saturday sports talk show on WRNG (now 680-The-Fan). They were discussing the current Georgia Tech football coach, Pepper Rodgers, when they took my call. The first thing I said was, “Pepper is nothing to sneeze at”. Skip got a rare chuckle from it. A few days later, her repeated the line during a Braves telecast in Montreal. The game was televised on the new satellite hookup, so it went nationwide. The thought of having my comment spread through space was exhilirating. Thanks again, Skip.
By kev
August 4, 2008 4:23 AM | Link to this
I remember back in 1999 when online radio broadcasts were free. My sister and I turned down the miserable ESPN broadcasts and listened to Joe and Skip (as well as Don and Pete), even if the radio broadcast had a minute delay from the tv broadcast. I can still remember the excitement in his voice when Walt Weiss dove to make that catch with the bases loaded…I always loved how he knocked on ESPN and talked about the latest movies he’s watched.
He was such a unique individual and he will be sorely missed.
One of my favorite Skip Caray lines: “Bases are loaded and I wish I was too.”
By Supes
August 4, 2008 4:26 AM | Link to this
Skip will always be assosiated with the Atlanta Braves, and I will greatly miss him calling the games on the radio.
He called it like it is, made it entertaining and he respected the game of baseball.
I will forever rememeber his call in the 92 NLCS and the 95 WS. Defining moments for Atlanta Braves history.
Rest in peace, and God Bless!
By SteelCav
August 4, 2008 4:41 AM | Link to this
I hope tonights broadcast of the Giants/Bravos game pays homage to Skip in the form of flashbacks, great calls, etc. I’m going to miss that man very much.
By Barry McClure
August 4, 2008 4:54 AM | Link to this
I’m 46. I’ve had the privilege of listening to Skip & Pete for 33 years. Every year I tell my wife just how much I love listening to them; it makes me feel young. They have been a bigger part of my life than they could possibly know. I will miss Skip dearly. God bless you Skip. Thank you.
By scottbravesfan
August 4, 2008 5:14 AM | Link to this
A part of my child hood died tonight. You guys remember when the Braves were in the NL west? I loved how they would play all those late night games. My mom would never allow me to stay up late and watch the games when school was in but as soon as summer started I would fall asleep listening to Pete and Skip call the Braves vs. the Dodgers or Padres. It was a great way to spend a summer night. 20 years later I still love hearing Skip and Pete. No matter what’s going on in my life, hearing one of those guys call a baseball game made everything else seem ok.
By braves
August 4, 2008 5:19 AM | Link to this
What can I say that makes any sense? I’ll always have that call against the Pirates in my head. It was just yesterday, along with “Run Lindsay, Run.”Chip, if you had just made that one call, that would have been enough.
By Bob
August 4, 2008 6:04 AM | Link to this
This has been a bad Braves year: no television coverage in Florida, no stretch drive, and now this.
I think it was Skip that colorfully described the interpretation of the strike zone of SS Andres Thomas as he went down swinging. “Andres has an interesting strike zone - he’ll swing at anything between the on-deck circles.”
By Plate Appearance
August 4, 2008 6:10 AM | Link to this
THANKS SKIP
Thanks Skip, for all the great memories listening to you on the radio and on TV. You’ll be missed!
I only hope now the Braves management will bring back another “tell it like it is announcer”, as Skip so clearly was, in Don Sutton.
By Aaron
August 4, 2008 6:13 AM | Link to this
In a season that we thought couldn’t get any worse. Just did on Sunday afternoon. With the passing of Skip Caray. After we heard the sad news about Skip. My Dad and I came to the conclusion that this is easily one of the worst Atlanta Braves seasons ever. It is a season to either remember, forget or both. You can decide for yourself. Every bad thing possible that could happen, just flat out happened. From injuries, to surgeries, to gut wrenching one-run losses and unfortunately now, deaths within the Braves family. I still can’t believe somebody that I grew up watching on TBS and listening to on the radio, along with alot of other young Braves fans that are around my age did. He’s just simply gone. And we’ll never see him again. Until we step into eternity ourselves. And hopefully go to a place called heaven! This is why everybody should be ready, have their life commited to God and have accepted Jesus into our hearts. Because God forbid that any person dies without calling on God and Jesus to do work in their lives. When I saw this news last night on ESPN. I was really disheartened and numb to the whole situation. And it was like I had lost one of my own family members. Because I remember. I had same feeling of emptiness when My Grandmother died in May of 2000. And when my grandfather died in January of 2002. While my father and I were at his bedside when he took his final breath. So I asked that everyone take the time to pray for Chip Caray and the entire Caray family. As they go through this tough time. And just ask God to guide and bring them to light at the end of the tunnel as soon as possible. And it looks like Chip and Skip were really close. So I especially feel for Chip Caray! And things like this really puts life in perspective. It makes you realize what’s important and what’s not. And definately makes baseball take a backseat. But at the same time. I’m curious to see if this will somehow spark the Braves for the remaining games in August and September. And they can dedicate the rest of the season to Skip Caray and the Caray family. And play inspired ball the rest of the way. Because God works in mysterious ways! And I can tell you from experience, that there’s no better feeling than being inspired through Christ!
By THEsidewalkfan
August 4, 2008 6:19 AM | Link to this
i’m 36 and one of my earliest memories is listening to the braves on the radio with my grandpa on the front porch in the summer. skip’s voice was so distinctive and familiar (along with pete’s); he did feel like an uncle to me.
By Dr. Warren
August 4, 2008 6:19 AM | Link to this
As Mark says, Skip was Letterman before Letterman himself. He was a progressive presence in Atlanta broadcasting from the 70’s onward. My best memories of him were as a kid in the car travelling to and from late 70’s Hawks games—and of course watching away games on TV. Those were good teams, exciting teams, which gave him plenty of opportunities to declare, “IT’S COCKTAIL HOUR!”
By proeye
August 4, 2008 6:30 AM | Link to this
May you rest in peace Skip Carey. You will long be remembered.
By Paul Tinkle, Martin, Tn
August 4, 2008 6:34 AM | Link to this
My, son Jordan Tinkle, a young broadcaster to be, interviewed Skip when he was about 12 years old at an Atlanta Braves radio affiliates weekend. Skip gave Jordan some “interviewing” tips that he’s using today in his radio career in Nashville.
Skip was a “giving man” and good teacher who had a big heart for teaching young broadcasters how to use their tools.
He reminded my son to “listen to what the interviewee is saying..don’t over prepare for the interview.. just listen and ask questions and the spin off from what the person is saying” he’d say.
Skip was always willing to do “promos” for stations on the radio network and our station, WCDZ FM 95.1 in Dresden(west Tennessee,) is the most northern station on the Braves network. Skip was always happy to know that his Braves broadcast were getting into “Cardinal country.”
Thanks Skip..you were always very kind and generous with your time and your heart was bigger than the game!
Paul Tinkle, President Thunderbolt Broadcasting Martin-Dresden, Tn Braves Radio affiliate WCDZ FM 95.1
By Tom Barfield
August 4, 2008 6:34 AM | Link to this
I remember 40+ years ago, first listening to the Hawks and Braves on WRBL(?) AM 1420 in Columbus with my battery powered, portable radio. Milo and Ernie. Then came Skip - a great hawks announcer. And with the Braves: “There’s a drive…!”
A true Atlanta fan - one of us. Thanks Skip
By Dondee
August 4, 2008 6:45 AM | Link to this
Aaron, I agree with how you said it….Keep Chip and the entire Caray family in your prayers. Even though Skip had been ill, he seemed to be getting better. Reading the online report, Chip was taken by surprise of the death of his dad. You know, 68 is really too young and I know his family wasn’t ready to let him go.
When my 21 year old son, a Braves fan since he was 3, came downstairs about 10:15 last night to tell me Skip had passed, I had to hold back tears for someone I had never met, but who I regard as a friend. Braves baseball will never be the same without Skip.
I always hated when the season was over because I couldn’t hear the Braves on the radio anymore. Now I won’t be able to hear Skip anymore. No more chopper to Chipper….I will forever remember the call when Sid Bream slid home, the excitement in Skip’s voice summed up how the entire city felt at that moment. Skip Caray, we will miss you.
By semiballcoach
August 4, 2008 6:50 AM | Link to this
don’t forget the phillies great—“Mike Schitt”
By Longtime fan
August 4, 2008 7:02 AM | Link to this
He was ahead of the curve with his criticism of NBA officiating and his frank commentary should be emulated by his successors. He was the first I ever heard voice the frustration of uneven calls. “If it is a Sunday tv game, Dr. J can pick up his dribble at half-court.” Pete and Ernie Sr. are like your kindly uncles. Skip is the one that would spike the punch at the family reunion. He filled some big shoes with his father’s fame always looming but he did it with his own style and brilliant wit. He will be missed.
By Randy Johnson
August 4, 2008 7:06 AM | Link to this
Funny how many people would constantly criticize Skip, then he passes it is realized how much he was loved.
Could you explain the infield fly rule?—-A caller from Alabama
“There’s a drive deep left center, at the track, the wall, 2-1 Braves. He hit the daylights out of that one”
By jon
August 4, 2008 7:09 AM | Link to this
One of my favorite Skip quips, was in the miserable 80s, another week night with the Braves about 20 games out and Atlanta Fulton County Stadium nearly empty: “It’s blue seat night, folks. Dress like a blue seat and get in free.”
Miss you Skip.
By Randy Johnson
August 4, 2008 7:13 AM | Link to this
Funny how people would constantly criticize Skip, but once he passes it is realized how much he was loved.
Could you explain the infield fly rule?—-A caller from Dothan Alabama
“There’s a drive deep left center, at the track, the wall, 2-1 Braves. He hit the daylights out of that one”
By roman88
August 4, 2008 7:27 AM | Link to this
thanks for all the great memories, in a time of political correctness, skip always told it like it was, how he felt, and most of us too, my favorite skip ism was always ’ we’re at the bottom of another fifth, growing up listening to skip for many years was like having a buddy there with you watching the game, I remember espn’s rich eison mocking skip’s voice on braves highlights, and skip responding right back on the next game of what he thought of him, they’ll never be another like him, like losing a family member. great article. godspeed skip
By leads
August 4, 2008 7:29 AM | Link to this
we’ll miss you skip…thanks for the memories
By Dick Pennock
August 4, 2008 7:46 AM | Link to this
Although Skip came to Atlanta to do Hawks games in the 1960s, he also joined Hank Morgan on the Atlanta Crackers radio team. His humor was a little more guarded then, and he was something of a curiosity as the son of Harry, but he was popular nonetheless. We applauded when he joined the Braves’ broadcast team, where he quickly became a household name around the country and bloomed into the irreverent wit we came to know and love.
Skip became the image of the Braves, more so than Ted or Hank or Chipper or Greg or Sid. For forty years we saw the team and the game through his lens, and what a lens it was!
Thanks, Skip. We’ll miss you. What better epitaph could there be?
By Doug
August 4, 2008 7:56 AM | Link to this
Thanks Skip. A large part of me has died, and I am very sad. Braves’ broadcasts will never be the same.
By David Carroll
August 4, 2008 7:58 AM | Link to this
All-time favorite Skip line, from the abysmal 80’s. Braves coming to bat in the 5th, already trailing, 14-2:
“Well, a single here, a double there, a home run, a couple of walks, another single, another home run, a few more singles, another home run….and we’re right back in this thing, folks!”
By SA
August 4, 2008 8:03 AM | Link to this
Don’t forget Skip’s traffic reports: 285-Bad 85-Bad 75-Bad
By Royceb
August 4, 2008 8:03 AM | Link to this
How sad. I feel like part of my family has died. We will miss you…
By Alan Morris
August 4, 2008 8:05 AM | Link to this
There will never be another Skip Carey. It is a sad, sad day for those of us who will never forget him. Thanks for the many hours of joy you gave us—we are laughing and crying at the same time. RIP Skip.
By Milo Hamilton
August 4, 2008 8:08 AM | Link to this
A drunken jerk. “Sarcastic but with a heart of gold” is classic praise for a DEAD creep. Good riddance to him & his drunken, adulterous dad. Somewhere in alky heaven they can share a tall cool Budweiser.
By So Long Skip
August 4, 2008 8:10 AM | Link to this
I have listen to Skip do games since he was the voice of the St. Louis Hawks, before they came to Atlanta. He was good in those days, before his problems. Skip joined the sorry Atlanta Braves when they were S-O-R-R-Y as hell. Skip has been blasted on the Braves vents so many times by stupid fans. They wanted him gone from Braves games. Well, folks, you got your wish, maybe not the way you wanted it, but you got it. Now, you will see what you had now that he is gone. Skip, Ernie Johnson, two GREAT voices of Atlanta Braves and the Hawks. I will miss Skip. He was the reason I listened to the NBA in the 1960s with the Hawks, Lenny Wilkens, Zelmo Beatty, Bob Bridges, and they came to Atlanta and Pistol Pete joined them, with Lou Hudson. Man, those were GOOD Hawk teams. With Skip as the voice. I will miss you Mr. Carey. Now Heaven has yet another great voice. My prayers for the family.
By Bill
August 4, 2008 8:14 AM | Link to this
As a lifetime Atlanta resident and sports fan, my best wishes go out to the Caray family.
No doubt, Skip was an original and will be missed…
By DEF
August 4, 2008 8:20 AM | Link to this
I want to thank you Skip. You helped me see it all on the radio when I was not able to watch the games on TV. RIP Skip Caray.
By Bill
August 4, 2008 8:24 AM | Link to this
Hey Milo Hamilton, Why don’t you take out a loan on some Class and Dignity, you lowlife ghoul!!
By The Oracle
August 4, 2008 8:25 AM | Link to this
I grew up listening to Skip. In fact, he kept me watching through all of those dismal years. The Braves have this fan today because of Skip. To those who remember only the last 17 years, where winning overshadowed the contributions of the man who laid the foundation, you missed the best of the Atlanta Braves. No one but Skip could have built such a following with such a poor product. It is not surprising that the Braves have been in the top three most popular teams for decades. This is Skip’s legacy. He is the Atlanta Braves. He cannot be replaced. Simply put, Skip was the best. Rest in peace my friend.
By Hammerin Hank
August 4, 2008 8:26 AM | Link to this
I remember a Braves game back in the ’90s when Skip and Don were doing the radio broadcast.
During a lull in the action, Skip says to Don: “Remind me not to sit next to you on the plane tonight.”
Don (snickering): “Why is that buddy?”
Skip (after a long pause): “By the way, how is that bean burito?”
So long Skip, we’ll miss you.
By Michael Sanders
August 4, 2008 8:27 AM | Link to this
Skip was my announcer.
By BT
August 4, 2008 8:32 AM | Link to this
I certainly hope that sometime in the future that Skip’s family reads this blog. A great article by Mark Bradley and fine thoughts by Skip’s fans! Thanks Mark.
By mountain jim
August 4, 2008 8:33 AM | Link to this
Here’s a toast to SKIP from another fan of 40 years, all the way back to the old Hawks days.
My favorite sports announcer of all time - RIP.
By Johnny B
August 4, 2008 8:36 AM | Link to this
A life long Braves fan who also grew up listening to Skip, Ernie, and Pete on the AM dial. I heard a radio spot this morning with Skip talking about how baseball was made for radio and never more were truer words spoken… Those were the days and I fell in love with baseball and the Braves! Many thanks to you my friend as well as the rest of the crew for all the wonderful memories.. Godspeed to you and God bless to all your family and friends…My prayers are with you all. John Boyd
P.S. Milo you are a first class “A” hole !
By varoadrunner
August 4, 2008 8:36 AM | Link to this
I will miss Skip more than I ever expected. His head was always in the game and his announcing always described the action on the field. One of our announcers now has a problem with that, Jon “boog” Schambi seems to try to sound knowledgable about all sorts of baseball trivia and he detracts from the game. There was one time in the 9th inning and an exciting game going on and he’s talking about something that happened in another team’s game that had absolutely no relevance - just a distraction. Skip’s passion for the gamne was easily identifiable. He was able to inject humor about the play on the field.
Again, I will miss him.
By Mark Bradley
August 4, 2008 8:36 AM | Link to this
Thanks again to one and all for the kind words. And another (all but forgotten) Skip memory: Doing Moto-Ball in Russia as part of Ted’s Goodwill Games.
By Millie
August 4, 2008 8:37 AM | Link to this
I would like to suggest that, in honor of Skip, there should be no more waves done at Turner Field the rest of the season.
By Michael
August 4, 2008 8:37 AM | Link to this
One of my favorite memories of Skip will always be the last game I heard him call, just a few days ago, when out of nowhere, during a lull in the game, he said “I’m sure that when the Braves AAA team opens their season at their new stadium in Gwinnett, that’s when the Department of Transportation will decide to pave the roads around that ballpark.”
Always one of a kind, always one of the very best. Godspeed Skip - I’ll miss ya.
By Big Jon
August 4, 2008 8:37 AM | Link to this
I remember as a little boy growing up in Roswell, Camping outside in an old army surplus tent armed with only a flash light and a transitor radio and my G.I. Joe with Kung Fu grip. Me and my brother with our eyes glued to the radio would here those famous words by Skip,” So long From the ball park”. We knew it was time to get out of the tent stand up with our hands over our hearts as WSB played The Star bangled banner” and signed off. Skip it is never good bye, but so long. WE will see ya again soon big boy. You will always be the voice of baseball in the south. thought and prays to your boys.
By Panama City Beaves Fan
August 4, 2008 8:40 AM | Link to this
I will iss Skip, I listened to him all over the world while I was in the Air Force on Armed Forces Radio nad he was my link with home. God Bless the Carey family and Pete. It will never be the same……
By Bill B
August 4, 2008 8:41 AM | Link to this
I have never seen so many “comments” abbout any subject or person. It took almost a minute to scroll thru all the comments. This is, in itself, t a tribute to the “man.”
I personally never cared for Skip Carey. However, in this world of people only saying trhe “politically correct” thing, he was not that way. You’ve got to respect someone who says what he thinks. You could call that “integrity.” Integrity is in short supply these days.
By mrm13
August 4, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this
Spent my youth enjoying the bad Braves baseball of the ’70s and ’80s because of Skip Caray. I loved his dry wit and honesty.
Even when the Braves were getting hammered again, I stayed tuned because of what Skip might say. He always found ways to make you laugh and had the ability to say what you were thinking without giving offense.
Few of my favs:
He’s reading the promotional copy for Toyota that requires much enthusiasm. “Toyota. Oh! Oh! Oh, what a feeling!” He read it monotone. No inflexion whatsoever and I couldn’t stop laughing.
After reading the promo for the movie following the game: “This one’s a real dog, folks.”
But I loved the story he told about the little old lady on his call-in show. She called to complain about why they didn’t televise the entire games on TV. He had her explain since he didn’t understand what she meant. She told him “You say you are leaving us after the fifth inning to do the rest of the game on radio.” So, she turned off her TV and turned on the radio.
Most nights I went with him. and always listened to he and Pete, Joe, Don and Ernie when they were on the national telecasts.
May the first foul ball at every home game the rest of the way out, be yours Skip.
By Brian
August 4, 2008 8:45 AM | Link to this
Atlanta has lost a broadcasting legend.During the Braves great run of the 90’s, I always listened to Skip, Joe, Pete and Don instead of those network “talking heads” in the post season. It is a very sad day for this “fan from Gainesville”. Rest in peace Skip.
By Belinda
August 4, 2008 8:46 AM | Link to this
I remember a cartoon years ago, beginnning at the 1990 season, and it was three Braves fans basically ‘anticipating’ the season- remember those years?- and one of the fans said, “maybe Skip will have some new jokes this year”… Skip was the reason to watch Braves baseball a lot of times and that secured it in my mind. Thank goodness he got us through those years and enjoyed these past 18 with us… And the one thought I had when I heard was :Goodnight, Skippy.
By Scott
August 4, 2008 8:46 AM | Link to this
I only met Skip one time (at a bar in West Palm Beach in the spring of 1996), and we talked for maybe a minute. But it feels like I’ve lost a friend.
By BAMF
August 4, 2008 8:47 AM | Link to this
Being a Chicagoan, I know the love for the Carey family is strong. Skip, Chip and Harry were three generations of broadcasting that actually do it for the love of it. Harry was an integral part of our lives here in Chicago and for Cubs fans the world over. And Skip was for Braves fans as well. My thoughts and prayers go out to Chip and to the family and to Braves fans everywhere. He will be missed, as he was loved, forever and ever. Amen.
By neil
August 4, 2008 8:49 AM | Link to this
I shed a tear last nite upon hearing of Skip’s death. I told my wife that it was like losing a good friend, since I’d listened to him since TBS first aired a game in the early 70’s. Many’s the night when working that I had the car radio on, parked in just that right spot to pick up WSB Atlanta to hear Skip and the crew do the radio broadcast. And “Braves Win! Braves Win! Braves Win! is one of those moments that you’ll always remember where you were if you love baseball. We’ll miss you Skip.
By Lanny Hoskins
August 4, 2008 8:49 AM | Link to this
The quality of my life just went down a grade with the passing of Skip. I had on my own personal “Bucket List” to “drink a beer with Skip Caray”…I guess I won’t get that done.
By Submariner683
August 4, 2008 8:50 AM | Link to this
I joined the service and moved from Atlanta in 1989. Although I’ll probably never live there again, Atlanta is my sports home and heart. Falcons, Braves, Hawks and now Thrashers are my teams and always will be.
Skip Carry was apart of every summer of consequence from my youth and every time I got to see the Braves on TBS and hearing Skip and Pete was like reliving those years.
With TBS no longer in the Braves broadcasting game, (a very sad state for me) I was unaware of Skip’s health problems and was taken back by the news yesterday.
Rest in peace, Skip. We’ve all lost a good friend. And my condolences to his family.
By BAMF
August 4, 2008 8:54 AM | Link to this
Being a Chicagoan, I know the love for the Carey family is strong. Skip, Chip and Harry were three generations of broadcasting that actually do it for the love of it. Harry was an integral part of our lives here in Chicago and for Cubs fans the world over. And Skip was for Braves fans as well. My thoughts and prayers go out to Chip and to the family and to Braves fans everywhere. He will be missed, as he was loved, forever and ever. Amen.
By opieandy
August 4, 2008 8:55 AM | Link to this
Loved him in the 70s and 80s, when the Braves were mostly bad and Skip was funny. But the whole ‘being a colossal jerk to callers on the radio call-in show’ in the late 90s ruined his legacy. Wish we could get Don back and have Don, Joe and Pete.
By Jack McMillan
August 4, 2008 8:56 AM | Link to this
Mark, thanks for writing the words that so many Braves fans are feeling and thinking today. Skip was one of a kind and he will be truly missed.
By James
August 4, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this
The Sid slide was the greatest call ever, but I do have a bottle opener the yhas Skip yelling “Braves win” Braves win”. This year we listened to every game he called knowing the number of them would be limited. He was a the Braves good and bad - we love him
By RRR
August 4, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this
To paraphrase, in honor of Skip:
“…how do you thank someone like Skip, and how do you say goodbye to Skip? I don’t know, but I’m going to try.
I don’t want to get all maudlin here, but thank you Skip and God bless you. And I/we are going to miss you every bit as much as you miss us.”
This is like the passing of an old friend of thirty years. Condolences to Chip and the rest of the Caray family, as well as Braves nation. We’ll miss you my friend.
By lewie
August 4, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this
there’ll never be another voice of the braves as far as i’m concerned….he’ll be missed.
RIP Skip
thoughts and prayers to his family
By You got to be kidding me
August 4, 2008 9:06 AM | Link to this
I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to tell when its springtime again… Just the sound of his voice during those first Braves games each year meant that the weather was getting warmer, things were beginning to bloom and school was soon to be out for summer! I will always miss that!
By ssiscribe
August 4, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this
We’ve lost a legend, the Voice of the Braves (along with Pete and Ernie, of course) and one of the big parts of the soundtrack of my youth. I was lucky enough to be in the old stadium for his two most famous calls. But it’s the memories of just hearing Skip day in, day out, that sticks with me this morning. I consider myself fortunate to have listened to him for so long, from being a youngster learning the game from my grandfather, to being a father teaching my two little guys about baseball and the Braves.
Thanks Mark, for a great piece. Thanks Skip, for all the memories. God bless you and your family.
—30—
By SEP
August 4, 2008 9:08 AM | Link to this
I have regretted the Braves decision to go to Major League Baseball broadcasts and dump the Atlanta Braves. From the late 1970’s until this year I watched every Braves baseball game on TBS that I could just to listen to the announcers. I must admit I loved Skip and Don together. I have not watched TBS much this year and I have not heard Skip or Pete this year but I am still crying over the news. I miss Braves baseball good or bad. Skip might have even been more fun when they were bad. We will miss you.
By Cheryl Sewell
August 4, 2008 9:09 AM | Link to this
I feel like I’ve lost a close relative. For 30 years no matter where I was, I could turn on the TV and hear Skip Caray calling the Braves game. It was like calling home and having your funny, cranky Uncle Skip answer the phone. Constant and reassuring, everything’s OK, call again soon, I’ll be here. Living in NC I haven’t heard him this year because of the format change. I’m sorry to think I’ll never hear him again.
By willdave
August 4, 2008 9:21 AM | Link to this
Mark Bradley, thanks for writing such a touching tribute to Skip Caray. You’ve brought up the fond memories of this Atlanta icon that most of us will carry for the rest of our lives. While I mourn Skip’s passing, those memories of what an entertaining broadcaster he was will always bring a smile to my face. Skip Caray, thanks for the many hours of superb broadcasting that you allowed me to enjoy over the past four decades. I hope you now have the comfort and peace that you so richly deserve.
By 'Hawk Head
August 4, 2008 9:21 AM | Link to this
Foul ball off to the left, and a fan from Woodstock, GA came away with that one…
By Louisville Dawg
August 4, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this
Top Skip-isms — During the 80s, the Superstation returns from a commercial break to show a woman in a bikini walking down the aisle in LA, where the Braves are playing. As she turns away from the camera, Skip says “Two are out in Dodger Stadium.” — After reading a letter from a Mr. Smith who wrote that Skip’s nicknames for the players (Horns, Murph, Raphie, etc.) detracted from the game, Skip ended the reading with, “Well, Smitty, I’ll take that into consideration.” — Traffic reports from the road, rightly predicting that I-285, 75, and 85 were all crowded. — Oversleeping every July 4 to miss running in the Peachtree Road Race. — Offering to pitch in another $100 if Raphael Belliard hit a homer during the Goody’s Home Run Jackpot Inning (2 career HRs). Yelling “There’s a drive!” before calmly announcing it was caught. Thanks Skip.
By Tim McDaniel
August 4, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this
I knew this day wasn’t too far off in the future, but it is still shocking, none the less. I was 7 years old when Skip and Pete joined Ernie in the broadcast booth. I used to put the radio in my bedroom window and listen to the games while me and my brother used to play whiffle ball in the front yard. In a way, Skip taught me about the game. He taught me to respect the game, but to have fun at the same time. I don’t know the Braves apart from Skip Caray, and I know that I will never like them as much as I did with him being a part of them.
I loved to hear the words, “It’s a drive to deep left field …” and “Listen to that crowd.” He made me laugh so hard and I loved the comradarie he had with his fellow broadcasters. I’ll always remember, “right you are, Joe Simpson” when Joe made an obvious observation. I loved that he couldn’t hide his disdain for all the promos and the commercialism of the game. I hate the wave because of Skip. Isn’t there a ball game going on?
Skip, your unique, and dare I say beautiful, voice will always be in my memory. The Atlanta Braves Broadcasting Booth will never be the same, again.
Chip, I loved your Dad!
By Tim from Suwanee
August 4, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this
And don’t forget- When a game went into the tenth inning, we were about to enjoy some “free baseball”, per Skip.
By MP
August 4, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this
I vividly remember Skip in 1968 on the radio doing Hawk games. I thought he was great then.
The last time I heard him was Wednesday night. I was driving around listening to the game. Skip and Pete noticed a TV in the Suntrust area was not tuned to the game. Pete asked “what do you think is playing” and Skip said “Titanic”.
By Tim
August 4, 2008 9:27 AM | Link to this
Words can’t describe how I feel, so I will not even try.
I listened to the game Thursday while putting in some long hours at work. I find it ironic that his last game was against the Cardinals.
My thoughts and prayers to the Carey family. Skip will be sorely missed. And who said there is no crying in baseball?
By JZ
August 4, 2008 9:28 AM | Link to this
Caray made his mark in baseball, but I always remember his NBA work back in the days when the league was in real trouble in the 70s and early 80s. During a baseball broadcasts, whenever he would see some situation that was not being handled properly he would say: “That was as well organized as a Cleveland Cavaliers fast break.” (This back when the Cavs were winning ~20 games a year.)
I remember one time he noticed the Hawks’ opponent doing something wrong — illegal substitution or something — and Caray took off his headset and left his broadcast position to go tell Hubie Brown about it. You could hear him hollering “Hubie! Hubie!” in the distance.
Skip Caray was part of growing up for me. Thanks for everything Skip.
(Mark Bradley, nice work.)
By Boondocks
August 4, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this
In the years before cable, I spent many nights listening to the broadcasts on radio. IMHO Skip is by far one of the best of the business.
With the destruction of the year through injuries, it’s just another blow in a dismal year.
By Richard
August 4, 2008 9:31 AM | Link to this
Sad that he suffered and sad that he died, but in my 25 years here I could never figure out how Skip kept his job. He was awful. Long silences. No stories. Every fly ball was soaring out of the park but then caught easily, short of the warning track. Two minutes of Vin Scully was better than a season of Skip. That said, RIP.
By wiki
August 4, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this
I started watching the games in ‘78 when my parents decided to subscribe to the 13 channel cable TV package. I always enjoyed Skip being able to tweak Ernie to the point of uncontrollable laughter that you could tell he had to turn off his mic until he regained his composure…….and most of the time then I was too young and innocent to even know what they were talking about. God bless.
By Mark Lemke
August 4, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this
“Chopper to Chipper”…RIP and God Bless, Skip
By Brown
August 4, 2008 9:35 AM | Link to this
I grew up watching TBS’ Braves broadcasts with both my dad and my grandparents. We hardly missed a game. That era of my life is truly over now. No more TBS. No more Skip.
I’ll miss his broadcasts, but I’ll remember that era of my life forever. Thanks, Skip. My thoughts go out to the family.
By Brown
August 4, 2008 9:36 AM | Link to this
I grew up watching TBS’ Braves broadcasts with both my dad and my grandparents. We hardly missed a game. That part of my life is truly over now. No more TBS. No more Skip.
I’ll miss his broadcasts, but I’ll remember that era of my life forever. Thanks, Skip. My thoughts go out to the family.
By William F. Miller
August 4, 2008 9:37 AM | Link to this
He was the best, and most truthful and accurate sports announcer I have ever heard - and I have lived all over the country. I enjoyed him greatly, and I will miss him greatly.
By Bama Brave
August 4, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this
Whenever the Braves were on “National TV” during regular season or the playoffs, I would often mute the TV and listen on Braves radio. I would much rather listen to Skip, Pete, Don, and Joe than any of the Fox announcers.
We’ll miss you, Skip.
By Crue
August 4, 2008 9:43 AM | Link to this
Skip was so fun to listen to back when the Braves were in last place that I fell in love with them and moved from Oregon to be able to go to their games.
We will miss you Skip.
By Kevin
August 4, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this
Good job Mark - we will miss him. Kevin Marietta
By Cranbery
August 4, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this
Something in Braves Baseball died on Sunday………….We will miss you Old Friend. Sleep Well & God Bless
By Pastor Ken
August 4, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this
Well,this is one of those life moments that really surprises you. Listening to Skip call the games was one of those enjoyable pastimes that we all kind of took for granted and failed to realize its impact upon us. When I heard the news, I felt really sad to the point of sheding a few tears over someone I never knew personally. I was really surprised by my reaction, but then the realization came to me that Skip had become so much a part of my life that his passing was really a loss . I’m sure millions of us fans are feeling the same today. We are praying for the family as they go through this tough time in their lives.Truly Skip was able to turn the broadcast booth into a forum to spread a little joy into the lives of millions. This was his mission in life and he fulfilled it to the end. God bless him, his family, and the entire Braves organization.
By Steve
August 4, 2008 9:55 AM | Link to this
Simply the best. I watched the Braves nightly back in the old days when they weren’t winning the division. Skip was THE reason to watch or listen to the Braves.
His humor just matched perfectly with my own ‘realist’ style of thinking and believing. He wasn’t one of the corporate ‘always be positive’ types that is absolutely killing our country. He was one of these ‘ignore all the bad aspects of the situation’ type of guys. He simply said what I and every rational person was thinking, but did it in a way that endeared him to many people.
Richard claimed he had long silences and no stories, but compared to the announcers now who won’t shut up for a single second, that is a blessing. Most of us don’t want to hear non-related stories and banter for hours on end. He rarely talked about anything outside of the sport he was announcing, with the simple exception of sarcastic one-liners about pop-culture. It’s too bad mroe announcers can’t learn this trait, as I would be able to actually leave the volume turned up if they did.
Rest in peace Skip Caray, I will miss you, but never forget you or your humor.
By Seven Pitches
August 4, 2008 9:58 AM | Link to this
Rest in peace, Skip, and thanks for always being there. Spring for me will never be the same.
By NCBravesFan
August 4, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this
This is a tough loss. Skip, Pete and Ernie were my passport into the world of baseball. I first got hooked on the game and the Braves in 1980, when the team emerged from the funk of the late 70s and started making an improbable (and in the end unsuccessful) push toward a pennant in 1980.
A high school senior in Fayette County, my folks didn’t watch the Braves on TBS despite their blistering play down the stretch that year. But no matter … I could go to my bedroom and snap on WSB and listen to Skip and the gang with the call.
It was better that way I think … the radio provides the color of words, and the mind of the listener the canvas. The great artists the world … the Rembrandts and Renoirs and Van Goghs … could not compete with the art of the baseball commmentator. And Skip was a master. So many on here have told some of the stories and great calls, and so I won’t tread there.
What I will say is thank you, Skip. You did so much more than call Braves games. You opened up an exciting world filled with possibility and hope, and you did so with many a team that seemed to have no possibility or hope.
I’m glad for both of us that we shared brighter days — you in the booth and me in the audience. So from one fan — thanks for the laughs, the highs and the lows.
Rest in Peace. And thanks for introducing this fan to what is undoubtedly the best game in the history of sport.
By Bo
August 4, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this
Skip has gone to join his Father, both of them! He will be greatly missed. Our prays are with the family.
By Biff Pocaroba
August 4, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this
Favorite Skip line: from about 1986 or so. Braves playing the Giants at FulCo and it’s August so the Braves are way, way out of it. About 2,000 people in the stands and the game is in about the 15th inning. Pete mentions that the such and such town senior citizens home is at the game. Skip says “they were young when they got here”. Man, I’m going to miss listening to him.
By genuinebravesfan
August 4, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this
I am blessed to live in the rural Alabama countryside and when I got cable in 1990 I started watching this team called the Atlanta Braves on this superstation called WTBS listening to this witty announcer Skip Caray and a professor of baseball knowledge Pete Van Wieren. After awhile the TV was tuned to the Braves every night they were on. I jumped to the floor the night Sid Bream slid into home and was safe almost pulling a muscle as I celebrated for my Braves. I, for one, will miss Skip. I have already missed him on the air since all the broadcast changes took place. The Atlanta Braves family has lost an icon. We will never forget you Skip Caray. God Bless.
By Andy
August 4, 2008 10:23 AM | Link to this
Even though I knew Skip’s health had declined this past year, it was still quite a shock to hear that he had passed away yesterday. It makes me incredibly sad to know that I’ll never get to hear Skip make me laugh with his wonderful Skipisms.
From the horrid years the Braves had in my early childhood to the dynasty of 14 straight division titles, Skip was always there to call the game like no other. In my mind, he is truly a legend and I’ll miss him.
By robert
August 4, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this
Wow an era is gone. As long as I remember Braves baseball was Skip,Pete,and Ernie growing up thats who I listend to. I will never for get your humor Skip. thanks and god bless.
By robert
August 4, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this
Wow an era is gone. As long as I remember Braves baseball was Skip,Pete,and Ernie growing up thats who I listend to. I will never for get your humor Skip. thanks and god bless.
By Glen
August 4, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this
My favorite Skip moment is a bit obscure. After the intro, the telecast begins with footage of water POURING down the steps at Atlanta Fulton County Stadium and the old Morton Salt tarp covering the field.
Skip says something like, “The National Weather Service radar tells us it is not raining here. I think if they were to visit the stadium right now, they would find it rather WET!
In today’s world of antiseptic, boring, politically correct announcers, a ‘homer’ like Skip was a breath of fresh air and will be greatly missed.
God Bless and thanks for the memories Skip!
By preacherdan
August 4, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this
Everybody has syid just about everyone of my favorite “Skip-isms” over the past 30-plus years, but the one I didn’t see listed was when Skip broadcasted the first period and half of the second period of a Flames game. Jiggs MacDonald was late due to a flight delay getting back into town and Skip covered. Skip was lost covering the game, trying to remember names of players and mis-pronouncing the ones who had any type of an accent. It was great fun and something I don’t think Jiggs ever let Skip forget. Of course, I was always hoping for the day that Skip would announce that “a fan from Sharpsburg cught that last foul ball.”
The Braves and baseball truly lost a great man and announcer!!!
By ben
August 4, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this
A fan from Tucker, while not sad is welling up
There is one Skipism that will make me laugh for the rest of my life.
At the start of their first game v. the D-Backs ever Skip looks right into the camera and said “Hello Braves fans the next person who says it’s a dry heat gets it in the neck.”
He had his detracrtors, most of them I felt were upset at his self-alleged debotchery. Remember, judge not less ye be judged. Listening to him these last years, while nice, was also just a bit sad. Someone should please bring back Don Sutton. That was his best partner.
PUT SKIP IN COOPERSTOWN!!!!!!!!!
Thankyou Mr. Carry for making longs Summers that much more bareable. Thankyou for being an honest crank who made me laugh night after night. Thankyou for letting us, however slightly, into your personal life. It made us feel like we knew you, eventhough I’d wager pretty good money that most of us had never physically laid eyes on you. The greatest testiment to your ability as a broadcaster may well be the simple reality that the Braves despite being so bad for so long are a very beloved piece of this town’s faberic. A claim which can not be made by any other pro team in The City of Trees.
Sleep well gentle Prince. I never knew you, but I miss you already .
By Jim Duffel
August 4, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this
Skip will be missed. I will miss Skip. I loved listening to Skip on radio or tv. It won’t be quite the same. It was a shock to everyone but his health told us we should expect it but we can never be ready. Condolences to his family.
By Ted
August 4, 2008 10:39 AM | Link to this
My condolences to his family.
Having grown up listening and watching him on TBS and WSB, all I can say is that he’ll be greatly missed by me.
Rest in peace, Skip. Rest in peace.
By Darrell Myrtle Beach
August 4, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this
I’ve been a Braves fan since i was in little league. Now i’m 40, For 30+ years I’ve watched 80% of the braves games Some of the best moments came from the live feeds in the 80’s. During the tv commercials Skip would tell “colorful” jokes that were funny as heck. He even had a contest you could send in your best joke lol. During the last game on TBS Skip thanked all the fans who had been with them from the beginning. My older brother was watching the game with me he said “He’s really talking to you ain’t he” with lots of emotion i said Yeah he is. So after literally 1000’s of games i’m going outside to walk my dog. I’ll miis ya Skip
By randy
August 4, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this
RIP Skip. Please say hello to my dear, sweet mother. She loved you and Ernie.
By Eric Dye
August 4, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this
I just wish I could have told you in person how much I enjoyed your phenominal work, all the memories from day 1 and the personality of our BRAVES…you will be greatly missed. Chip - carry the torch!!
By Mike
August 4, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this
My condolences to the entire Caray family, as I see much evidence that Mr. Caray was at truly nice man. But I wonder about Atlanta’s sense of proportion. He was a baseball announcer. Period. Atlanta is acting like a head of state has been shot, or like Neil Armstrong has died. Other sports announcers seem inclined toward weeks of sackcloth and ashes. I know a family is missing a husband and father, but my god! Atlanta may never recover, and I pray that the legions of ex-jock game-callers will have the strength to go on. America will never know the course its hallowed history may have taken had Skip Caray lived, and by his passing our lives and dreams lay dim and diminished. We should all call our offices and request bereavement leave; perhaps Queen Elizabeth should make a public statement.
By George
August 4, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this
Sir,
Thank you for a great story about a great announcer and one of my real sports hero’s for the past 30 years.
By cyc
August 4, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this
Skip, I’ve loved you for 40 years. I went to my first Braves game in 1966, was there during the many lean years, and sat in the Ckub Level the night Sid slid. I grew up and grew old listening to you, and I cried today for you and what you’ve meant to so many Atlantans. RIP - I’m sure there is no infield fly rule in heaven.
By GPlumer
August 4, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this
Thanks for the memories, Skip. You were the best.
By mary
August 4, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this
I feel like I’ve lost a member of the family. I offer my prayers to the Carey’s.
By DAN BLANKOWSKI
August 4, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this
MARK,
This comments blog is a treasure trove of great anecdotes & stories … I’ve spent the last hour reading almost every comment (even the buttheads!), and LOVED IT!
Can you have an intern pull the great stories and quotes from this blog and compile them into an informal tribute story?
THANKS to the radio & TV pros who contributed to the story!
THANKS to Mark for an excellent off-the-top-of-the-head story … the BEST kind!
By cyc
August 4, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this
Hey Mike - you just don’t get it. He was much more than a baseball announcer. What a great country we live in where even idiots are free to speak.
By Rick
August 4, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this
I appreciate the AJC posting the call Skip made at the end of the 1992 NLCS. I only wish they had let it go a bit further. I remember the call like it was yesterday and remember Skip being so excited that his youngest son had been able to stay on a school night and see the ending. He talked about how he knew he (his son) would never forget it. In the midst of the excitement, you could tell how important his family was to him. I always respected Skip Caray’s love for his family and friends.
By JUST A FAN
August 4, 2008 10:57 AM | Link to this
I hope Chip has inherited his Dad’s telepathic ability to discern the hometown of every fan who catches a foul ball at Turner Field … he has my permission to use it on-air without shame!
And Braves’ fans should BOO every attempt at a “Wave” this season, in Skip’s honor!
By bill
August 4, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this
Part of my youth and young adult life died with you Skip.Thanks for the great memories.Rest in Peace,you deserve it.
One of the local radio stations played the Sid Bream call this morning.It still gives me goose bumps.
By R
August 4, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this
I dont know if anyone has noticed this, but the next Braves home game is Aug 12 against the Cubs. Boy you know Harry and Skip will be calling that one from upstairs. If we could only hear it!
By Paul
August 4, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this
I remember when the Braves were playing the Astros and Denny Walling, who played baseball at Clemson, was at the plate. Skip said that Clemson was going to change its nickname to the Cheetahs. The station made him apologize for that because two people complained. Even so, remarks like that made him so memorable.
By Jasonntn
August 4, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this
RIP Skip, I know I speak for a generation of Braves fans when I say it will never be the same without you.
By spotts
August 4, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this
I usually don’t get emotional, but I just cried a little reading the vents which were all devoted to Skip. I can’t believe he’s gone…we really miss you, Skip.
By coachgb
August 4, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this
The best of the best skipism was the time during a rather boring spot in a game when the camera zomed in on a rather “well endowed” young women wearing a low cut shirt. Skip simply said that he thought that must be the directors way of reminding him that there were two out in the inning!
By Greg
August 4, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this
Not sure how to capture how this feels… I am 41 and been a braves fan my entire life. I went to games, listened to games and Skip was always there. I never met him, but I knew him in the same way all those posting here knew him, because he was honest in a way that is not common among tv/radio personalities. Maybe that’s it, he had a personality, he wasn’t “a personality” the way they are made, packaged and put in front of us for consumption these days.
Losing Skip is hurts because he was Skip, the sharp, funny and sarcastic voice that accompanied us through much of our lives. It hurts more when we look around and don’t see there aren’t more people as honest as him being paid to be who they are, not made into what sells.
By Displaced Braves Fan
August 4, 2008 11:06 AM | Link to this
Could someone enlighten me as to why TBS decided to discontinue the Brave’s broadcasts? Why would they mess with success? We are the 2nd most polular team because of the Superstation. It saddens me to think that all the fine work that was done(especially Skip) to build the Braves brand into what it is today will be squandered. Living in Florida, I no longer get the games. I subscribe to MLB, but that is not the same and probably will discontinue after this year. I now judge the entertainment of the games by the announcers and most/if not all are very drab. Skip set the bar high. Unfortunately, taking the Braves off of the Superstation will eventually reduce the Braves down to the Hawks. Out of sight, out of mind. The Brave’s decision to be very regional will definately have its affect on me. Regardless, even as my interest in the Braves wanes in future years, I will always remember the good ole days with Skip, Pete and Ernie.
Baseball is like a soap opera in many ways. We tune in tomorrow to unfold another chapter in the Brave’s saga. There are ups and downs, ebb and flow, drama and excitement. In this scenario, the storyteller makes all the difference. I can only hope that Chip gets the opportunity to appeal to a broader audience and walk in his father’s and grandfather’s big footsteps. God Bless!!
By webhead
August 4, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this
Back in 1981 iwent to a game with some friends from school.We kept yelling for Skip and Ernie Between about 2 innings we just kept yelling for them Finally he leaned over and waved at us then said Now shut the hell up,Please.I’ll miss the old days forever
By Jeff R
August 4, 2008 11:11 AM | Link to this
I grew up listening to Skip call the Hawks games, and then the Braves. For many years, my career took me all over the country. With the Braves televised nationally, summertimes, I always had the Braves, Pete, Ernie, Don and Skip to give me a taste of home. Skip will be missed.
By webhead
August 4, 2008 11:13 AM | Link to this
Back in 1981 iwent to a game with some friends from school.We kept yelling for Skip and Ernie Between about 2 innings we just kept yelling for them Finally he leaned over and waved at us then said Now shut the hell up,Please.I’ll miss the old days forever
By spotts
August 4, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this
Look at all the mourning on this discussion board. I’ve never met Skip Caray. I’m pretty sure most of you haven’t met Skip Caray. But he’s so revered that his death has affected masses and masses of people.
After reading all these anecdotes, and realizing that I’ll never hear another “And a fan from Dacula, Georgia caught that foul ball” I don’t know if I want to hear any other announcer call a Braves game.
By Spence
August 4, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this
All season long I’ve felt a loss. The Braves seem different now. The strength of 14 straight division titles has been replaced with doom. Reality sank in. You just knew deep down inside that things had changed for the worse. Capturing past glory by bringing back Glavine and resting our hopes on Smoltz seemed desperate. What was supposed to give comfort left some of us with bitter reality. The fat lady had sung and this was her encore.
Now with the loss of Skip its confirmed. It will never be the same. Good bye glory years. Its the end of an era.
Thanks for the memories.
By Larry white
August 4, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this
Greenville, NC was one of the first to carry the famous WTBS Superstation back in the mid-70’s, enabling this young teenager access to Atlanta Braves baseball and the incomparable Skip Carey. I used to “betamax” West coast games (that they always lost) ONLY to hear the banter between Skip and Pete, or later Don, or whomever. I am a college professor in El Paso now, and at age 53, feel a real sense of loss. I never felt Skip got the national attention he deserved—his wit and humor were fantastic. This is especially sad for me now, in that I just lost my wife of 21 years—and she always appreciated my love for skip. I have the ‘92 Bream game on VHS in my library, and watch the original telecast and call frequently. Rest in Peace Mr. Carey.
By Jeff in Seattle
August 4, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this
I´m a Phillies fan, but like a lot military people I´ve had to live all over the country. From 1978 through 1999 I watched the Braves religously because this was the only baseball available. I lived through the bad years and the good years of the Braves like many of their fans. Skip Carey was one of the two or three Baseball voices of my life. Thanks for the many hours we spent together Skip!!
By JeanE
August 4, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this
I am beyond sad, I can’t believe it. I knew his health was bad & you could hear it in his voice sometimes but I’d rather have that than no Skip at all. What a loss, he is Braves Baseball in many ways. I loved his humor, it made the games so much more entertaining. You will be missed so much Skip, may you rest now in peace. Thanks for all of the years…
By Doug Markham
August 4, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this
You know someone’s special to you when you wake up several times during the night and don’t want to believe what you’ve heard. Especially when it’s someone you’ve never met. I appreciate the Caray family—and miss Harry, too.
By Melissa
August 4, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this
Mark, thank you for saying what all of us are thinking. Beautiful job! I’ll never forget listening to games just to hear “chopper to chipper” or “line drive, base hit, braves win! braves win! braves win!” His voice will always be the voice of the Braves. As one of those who laughed at “if you promise to patronize our sponsors, you may now walk the dog” I enjoyed broadcasts more. Skip, rest easy now; one of the fans from Sandy Springs who caught the foul ball will miss you terribly but will keep up with the Braves no matter what.
By Tom
August 4, 2008 11:27 AM | Link to this
My son and I loved to listen to Skip. I remember years ago, Bob Horner had an infield hit and was running to first. Skip said, “Bob Horner has deceptive speed, he’s slower than he looks.”
I still laugh when I think of that.
By Serge
August 4, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this
I heard the news last night and thought about all the great memories I have of listening to Braves baseball, and how most of them were brought to me by Skip Carey…R.I.P. you are already missed!
By Jeff Prescott
August 4, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this
From San Diego: When my roomie and I got cable here in 1978…..TBS with Skip and the gang, a pizza, a bit of the old “herb”……we did it every night!
Lousy baseball…GREAT entertainment!!!! RIP
By Piersonbrave
August 4, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this
Born in 1973 in a little known town of DeLand Fl. not seemingly that long ago. Florida had no baseball teams and the Braves were the team of the south. It’s funny how one voice from one man can cause so many memories for so many. With the use of satelite broadcasting and luckly AM radio I had the privilege to listen in for the last 30 years. Growing up through the years with the Braves I was lucky to have grown up with a certain 3rd baseman, “You know Who” as luck would have it bacame a Brave himself. Time flies and like sand through an hour glass you can only reflect on the great memories never to return. This year like no other showes all of us that with time all things change. Will this be the begining of the changing of the guards for the Braves, or is Skips passing just a continuation of the change that started this spring? Here’s to Skip may he rest in peace. Also, here’s hoping that the Braves will honor him with strong play and mental toughness. Now in honor of Skip I am going to go walk my dog.
Go Braves.
By Jeff Prescott
August 4, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this
From San Diego: When my roomie and I got cable here in 1978…..TBS with Skip and the gang, a pizza, a bit of the old “herb”……we did it every night!
Lousy baseball…GREAT entertainment!!!! RIP
By Shawn Miller
August 4, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this
I too am heart broken. I remember the funniest comment too. A foul ball had been hit into the net and the fans were trying to get it out. Pete and Skip were commenting about ways to get the ball down and the camera shot to a guy picking his nose. Skip said I hope they pick a good one… There was total silence for about three minutes. My wife and I died laughing….
From Turner Field… So Long Everybody…
All Was Right In The World….
By Fast Eddie
August 4, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this
During one telecast, Skip did a Goodwill Games promo for a U.S.-China basketball game. After instructing viewers to stay tuned, he added, “The only problem with playing China is that an hour after you beat them, you want to beat them again.”
Also, as part of his anti-Wave campaign, he sarcastically told his radio audience he would queue them up for when the Wave came around so they could participate … unless, of course, they happened to be driving on the connector.
By RJP11
August 4, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this
Thank you, Skip, for the countless summer evenings of relaxation, enjoyment & fellowship as you set the scene for 3 generations of my family, Braves fans all. You were a great one in your own right … thanks for just being you & sharing our pastime with us for 30 years. You’ll be missed every time we tune in to the Bravos … GO BRAVES!
By RJP11
August 4, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this
Thank you, Skip, for the countless summer evenings of relaxation, enjoyment & fellowship as you set the scene for 3 generations of my family, Braves fans all. You were a great one in your own right … thanks for just being you & sharing our pastime with us for 30 years. You’ll be missed every time we tune in to the Bravos … GO BRAVES! RJP11 Knoxville, TN
By Tami
August 4, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this
Hey, Mark….a lot of great comments have come in since my 12:19 a.m. (8/4) posting. Maybe you should send all of these great memories and comments to a member of the Carey family.
I can relate quite a bit to the Carey family’s loss as I lost my dad to cancer - 10 years ago next month. Skip & my dad were born the same year. My dad’s personality was very similar to Skip’s, and Dad enjoyed listening to Skip in particular. My mom hated that I got my dad involved in MLB, and the Braves specifically. But, it formed a bond between us that he and I didn’t really have prior to this time. Since I inherited my dad’s sarcastic, dry sense of humor, we both “got” Skip’s humor perhaps quicker than most people might have. Skip’s loss deeply hurts me right now and has made me a bit emotional, bringing back the raw feelings of the loss of my dad that much more stronger. And both Skip’s and my dad’s deaths now seem somehow intrinsically linked. Skip….we’ll miss you more than you’ll ever know.
By Mike
August 4, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this
IT’S COCKTAIL HOUR, FOLKS!
By L beaty
August 4, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this
Thanks a lot Skip. The history baseball is richer because of you.
By kool$kat
August 4, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this
Spring and summer will never be the same without Skip’s voice in the background. From the evenings of my youth spent shelling peas and butterbeans or shucking corn while watching/listening to the Braves, to the recent years with Skip and company getting me through the night shift…I realized when informed of his failing health that I had taken him for granted all these years. What a treasure Skip was. I tried to read all the comments, but I didn’t see my favorite Skip Caray saying (from the losing years): “The stadium is filled tonight, but many fans have come disguised as empty seats.”
My prayers go out to the Caray family. I loved Skip!
By The Sarge
August 4, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this
As a one time/former broadcaster, Skip was my broadcast hero. In my day of doing play-by-play, I would steal anything that he would say on the air to use in my games that I could! My one-time dream of working with him remains unfulfilled.
By Kamac
August 4, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this
Skip never treated the fans like idiots who had no clue as to what kind of team the Braves had on the field. When the team was good, he said so., and when the Braves stunk, he said that, too. He never ever tried to tell us a player or the team was doing a good job when it wasn’t.
Thanks Skip for always being honest with the fans and showing them respect. We will miss you.
By Matt
August 4, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this
I’m still in a state of shock. It’s going to take a while for this to sink in. All my life, the only baseball I’ve known is Braves baseball, and Skip was always there to call the games for me. I was always disappointed when I tuned in to a game and Skip wasn’t calling it. I remember how, during the 90’s, I would wait impatiently until the 5th inning for Skip and Pete to take over the game. I didn’t realize until now just how much Skip Caray meant to me. It brings me to tears to realize that never again will I tune in to a Braves game and hear Skip, that never again will someone ground out to third and the world hear, “A chopper to Chipper,” and never again will we hear, “The bases are loaded, and [opposing manager] probably wishes he was.” But the memories of Skip Caray will live on, as will his most memorable calls, such as his descriptions of Otis Nixon’s catch (“He caught the ball!!! He caught the ball!!!”), the Braves World Series victory (“Yes!!! Yes!!! Yes!!!), and what is, for me, his most memorable call: Sid Bream’s slide (“He iiiiiiiiiissssss…SAFE!!! Braves win!!! Braves win!!! Braves win!!! Braves win!!!…..Braves win!!!”). Rest in peace, Skip, and we all miss you terribly.
P.S. You know heaven has got to be looking forward to hearing him call games between Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Shoeless Joe, Roberto Clemente, Jackie Robinson, Cy Young, Honus Wagner, etc. I know I would be!
By Stillahopeing
August 4, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this
MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO THE CARAY FAMILY. SKIP MADE BRAVES BASEBALL REAL TO ME AND I THANK TBS FOR EVERY GAME THEY SENT TO NASHVILLE ! I MISS THE GAMES AND I WILL MISS THE VOICE OF THE BRAVES.THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES, SKIP
By rthom
August 4, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this
And the pitchssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss ssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss.
By Barbara Green
August 4, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this
Today I feel like I felt many years ago when my Father died! Skip always seemed like he was a member of my Family; I spent many hours listening to him and Pete over the years and loved every minute of it. Thanks for so many great Memories Skip! God Bless you and your Family.
By David
August 4, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this
As the Braves were teeing off on a a pitcher named Mason:
Skip: Boy, Mason is getting jarred tonight.
Joe: Put a lid on it.
RIP Skip!
By Flint Adam
August 4, 2008 12:17 PM | Link to this
I still get goose bumps every time I hear Skip calling “The Slide.”
As a child, his was the voice I fell asleep to so many nights when the Braves battled in those late west coast games.
I loved the whole crew: Pete, Ernie, Don… but Skip told it in a way that you’d still be laughing about the next day.
He was loved… he’ll be missed… God bless you, Skip.
By CBL
August 4, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this
Skip’s calls and the camraderie the four broadcasters had was a big part of growing up in the summers of the 90s. My parents would always mute the TV whenever the playoffs and World Series (remember those days??) were on Fox, and AM750 was always turned on instead.
I’ll never, ever forget that sarcasm, the nasal voice, the hometowns of fans who caught a foul ball, and his laconic announcing style of whatever sitcom repeat was scheduled to come on TBS after the game.
Some of my all-time favorite calls: Otis Nixon’s Catch, The Slide, and the Final Out of the 1995 World Series.
So long, Skip.
By Watt2K8
August 4, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this
“There’s a drive…deep left field…way back…it’s outta here!” That line was a part of many a summer night as this small town boy grew up to be a big city man. Won’t be the same without you, Skip. RIP.
By Skeezix
August 4, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this
Skip was my favorite baseball broadcaster, especially on radio. He and Pete were a great team. My wife and I will miss him greatly. We loved his sense of humor and watched/listened intently so as to not miss his somtimes very dry/understated quick wit. You had to pay attention to catch the witty remarks because Skip wasn’t going to laugh at them or focus on them himself. My very favorite: A game at Shea stadium years ago— a fly ball to right field collided with a pidgeon. The lifeless bird hit the ground, there was a slight pause, and Skip said very matter of factly, “all the statues in New York are applauding”. My wife and I still laugh about that to this day. Thank you Skip Caray and may God Bless You.
By Carl
August 4, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this
Even though I never met him in person, I feel like I lost a very good friend. Thanks Skip.
By Scott
August 4, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this
A poorly attended Hawks game was discribed as a “partial sellout.” Another time it was “we have 15,000 fans here tonight, unfortunately 12,000 of them are disguised as empty seats.” Classic!!
By alex
August 4, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this
For me, Skip equals my love of baseball and those days and nights when you couldn’t wait to plop down and watch the Braves play one on TBS. Watching his last TBS broadcast last season with Chip literally brought tears to my eyes. As it did Skip. His only son telling him he loves him and is proud of him. A sad, sad day for any true Braves fan.
By Kevin
August 4, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this
My favorite thing about Skip calling a game was when a fan would catch a foul ball and he would tell the city and state they were from. He was fun and he will be missed.
By GEORGIA97
August 4, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this
I grew up listening to Skip call the Braves’ games and couldn’t wait for the home opener each spring. He’s had so many classic calls and stories over the years but here are a couple of my favorites:
The camera pans over to catch a glimpse of Chip Caray calling a Cubs game and Skip says calmly “Ugly little booger, isn’t he?”
While on the road in San Francisco a homeless guy approaches Skip and before he can say anything Skip says “Nothing for me today, thanks.” According to Skip, the homeless guy just looked at him and said “Jenny Craig is just a phone call away.” Skip was never afraid of self-deprecating comments.
And who could forget years ago when they would do the home run challenge and Skip would always read “Today’s contestant is Betty Hayes, who lives in a post office box in Cairo, Georgia.”
RIP, Skip.
By an oberserver
August 4, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this
It’s fitting that Skip died as the Braves are slipping back into the pack. When the Braves were at their worst, Skip was at his best. Mark, you nailed the reasons Skip mattered to many of us.
By David
August 4, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this
I will miss Skip terribly. I remember enjoying his humor back when TBS would show the Braves not once, but twice with a rebroadcast late at night.
He had many jokes I’ll never forget, but the best were the simple ones that his partners didn’t see coming.
Skip: Hey Ernie - do you know why it’s always so windy here at Candlestick Park?
Ernie: No, Skip, I don’t.
Skip: Because there always so many giant fans in the stands.
So long, Skip. I don’t think it’s a coincidence that your passing coincides with TBS’s decision to stop broadcasting games and the Braves’ streak of contending for the divsion coming to a close. You were the best.
By Joe Goeken
August 4, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this
I grew up in the St. Louis area listening to Skip's dad and Jack Buck and followed Skip and the Braves while living in Chattanooga. I'm 56 years old so the better part of my life has been spent listening to Caray's. One of my favorites was when the Braves were terrible in the 80's and the camera panned an almost empty Fulton County Stadium. Skip told the camerman to stop at a lonely fan in the upper deck all by himself with an open umbrella. Skip's comment: "talk about an isolated shower!"I will miss him.
By phil goddard
August 4, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this
Skip talking about the foul ball in the stands being caught by a fan from “(name your city)” was one of my favorite things to hear during the games. We will me miss you, Skip.
Phil Goddard
By Tron5000
August 4, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this
When I read the news just as I was headed for bed last night, it felt like I was sucker-punched in the gut. I stayed awake and read the wonderful tribute to him on ajc.com. But I guess since I was so tired and half asleep, I didn’t remember Skip’s passing when I woke this morning. When I heard it on the radio to work, the same emotions from last night hit me.
I’ve been an Atlantan and a Braves fan for all of my 27 years. Skip has been a part of my life for literally as long as I can remember. I truly feel as though I have lost a member of my family. This is absolutely a sad day not for the Braves and their fans, but for the city of Atlanta and the state of Georgia.
God Bless You, Skip. You will never again feel the pain that has plagued you these recent years. May God keep high the spirits of your family and loved ones.
By Sue = D'ville
August 4, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this
Skip will be so missed by this Braves baseball fan. Favorite times were going to the games in the 1980’s where you could buy an outfield ticket for $1, eat lunch and listen to the game with Skip and Pete and Ernie. Mark, thanks for a great column. And wouldn’t it be something if the Braves with all their woes this season, in honor of Skip, started winning. We loved you Skip, and will never forget you.
By SHERMAN
August 4, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this
THE BRAVES OF THE LATE 70’S WERE AS BAD AS A TEAM COULD GET BUT SKIP,ERNIE, AND PETE WERE AS GOOD AS A TEAM COULD GET. WHEN YOU GROW UP HEARING A VOICE ASSOCIATED WITH YOUR FAVORITE TEAM IT’S ALWAYS HARD WHEN THAT PERSON PASSES AWAY. IT’S LIKE PART OF YOUR CHILDHOOD GOES ALSO. SKIP WAS A GREAT PERSON AND COULDN’T HAVE BEEN ANY NICER TO MY SON LAST YEAR AT A BRAVES GAME WHEN HE SIGNED AN AUTOGRAPH FOR HIM. I TRIED TO EXPLAIN TO HIM WHAT HE HAD MEANT TO ME GROWING UP AS A BRAVES FAN BUT AT 4 HE DIDN’T SEEM TO UNDERSTAND. HOPEFULLY HE WILL ADOPT AN ANNOUNCER AND FOLLOW HIM FOR 30 YEARS ALSO. THEN ONE DAY HE WILL REALIZE JUST HOW INFLUENTIAL PEOPLE LIKE SKIP CARAY ARE TO EACH OF US AND BASEBALL. GOD BLESS YOU.
By Hillbilly Deluxe
August 4, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this
My favorite memory of Skip doesn’t translate well to print I guess. Probably early 80’s Skip is doing an onfield post-game TV interview with Dale Murphy at Wrigley Field. Skip had on a really loud pink shirt. Some guy in the stands (quite possibly a tad in his cups) kept yelling, “Hey Caray..no more pink shirts!!” Murphy was laughing so hard he couldn’t even answer any of Skip’s questions. Skip yells at the guy “OK no more pink shirts, go out and play in the traffic will ya?”….By this point Murphy has completely lost it and can’t talk at all….Skip looks at him, dead serious, and says, “Murph I’m trying to make a living, help me out here will you?”….
The main thing I can say for Skip though is that he never insulted our intelligence. He knew we could tell if the game was a stinker and in the 70s and 80s there were many.
I wonder how different the game might be today if Skip had been the Commissioner of Baseball.
By KimmieAtl
August 4, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this
Incredible column, Mark. I grew up listening to a crackling AM radio as Skip, Pete and Don made the game of baseball come alive over the airwaves. To this day, I still prefer listening to a game on radio to watching a game on TV - so much more of the art of broadcasting, and, I think, of the game itself, is captured through radio than through television.
Later, when Joe joined the crew, it seemed like the most perfect broadcasting team one could imagine had been created in Atlanta! At the time Don’s contract wasn’t renewed, when the “fab four” was initially broken up, I felt as if I’d lost a part of summer itself. Now, losing Skip, I realize how true that is. Summer will never, ever be the same.
Mark, thanks for sharing some of your Braves broadcasting memories. At this moment, it seems that we need to capture as many as we can for fear that they will somehow disappear from memory, and we never want to forget how amazing and unique Braves broadcasting has been.
Does anyone have links to comments on Skip’s passing from Don, Pete, and Joe? I can only imagine that they must be grieving terribly for a friend that was one in a million.
By jack
August 4, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this
Skip was always perturbed when he was on the road and the hometown team would inflate the attendance. His comment: “Looks like there are about 3,000 fans disguised as empty seats”. I never failed to laugh.
By Mark Bradley
August 4, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this
Thanks for all the anecdotes and memories, folks. It’s amazing how many people one man — one voice — can touch.
By BrandonC
August 4, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this
Atlanta has lost it’s ultimate voice. We’ll miss you Skip…
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Caray family and friends.
Rest In Peace. :(
By Patricia
August 4, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this
Thank you for your words. You told it like it was—just like Skip. And that is why I loved listening to him—he could talk about the talents of the opponents’ team as easily as he could talk about the Braves’ problems. And who could ever forget how much fun he had when the Braves were winning in the 90’s after having to deal with the bad seasons in the 70’s and 80’s. I don’t live in Georgia and have used my XM radio to listen to the games once TBS started offering less games. I was one of the many who wrote TBS when they took him off the air some time back—and was very happy when he returned. I liked the other broadcasters too, but there was something special about Skip. I will miss his voice and “crustiness” as you put it.
By Scorphil
August 4, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this
I clearly recall lying in bed as a youngster of 11 or 12 listening to Skip call the Hawks games and was thrilled when he joined the Braves broadcasts on WSB -“The land of the Hawks and the home of the Braves”. Skip was unique, inimitable, irreplaceable but most of all…loveable. He was the voice and face of the Braves for over 30 years. I will miss him dearly but will never, ever forget him. My deepest prayers and condolences to his family. Skip, for one last time…”Good night everybody”.
By NCBravesFan
August 4, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this
Anyone know if any tributes are planned/scheduled on SportsSouth or any other national/regional networks?
I saw ESPN this morning, but it was kind of a footnote. If it doesn’t have NY/LA or Boston in front of it, it’s pretty much a non-event.
God I hate that network.
By bigdaddy
August 4, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this
I’m from one of those little places where, according to the mailing address, everyone “lives in a post-office box,” as Skip put it.
Since we weren’t wired for cable or satellite, many a summer evening was accompanied by a portable radio with Skip and Company, even in the Braves’ lean days. We made and ate ice cream, cut and packed fresh vegetables out of the garden, studied Sunday-school lessons, even managed to talk to EACH OTHER and never miss a beat.
These are the memories I love the most!
By Tim Scott
August 4, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this
THANK YOU MISTER CARAY: YOU WILL BE MISSED I AM 52 YRS OF AGE NOW AND I HAVE BEEN LISTENING TO YOU SINCE THE BEGINING. MAY YOU TEAM UP WITH YOUR LEGENDARY FATHER NOW AND CALL ALL GAMES WITH GREAT CLARITY AND VOICE. MAYBE THE TWO OF YOU CAN INVITE THE GREAT JACK BUCK IN THE BOOTH WITH YOU. THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES. TIM SCOTT
By Buckshot
August 4, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this
Skip won me over as announcer when the Braves were losing by 10 runs in the 7th and he said, “This is as much fun as writing an alimony check” he became my hero! A fan from LaGrange caught that one.
By Mark Biles
August 4, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this
Milo Hamiliton and Skip Caray were the best—even if they didn’t get along. Both of them made great childhood memories for me growing up as an avid Braves fan in north Alabama.
By Heather
August 4, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this
It’ll never be the same. At least he died on a day when “Braves win. Braves win. Braves win”.
By Mikey in Sav
August 4, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this
Gosh… Poor Skip - he couldnt stand the Braves freefall into mediocrity so he just decided to go away.
we sure will miss you - there will never be anyone like you.
RIP Skip…
By Heather
August 4, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this
It’ll never be the same. At least he died on a day when “Braves win. Braves win. Braves win”.
By 1eyedJack
August 4, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this
Favorite Skipism:
“And we get to the bottom of another fifth…”
Godspeed Skip.
By Jimv
August 4, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this
I’ll meet you at our favorite place, Skip, and we’ll have one more for the road. That long, long road. God bless….
By Breeze
August 4, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this
Skip - “Welcome back to the Braves call-in show,let’s go to Bob in Marietta.”
Bob- “Skip, how do you think the DAWGS will do this year ? “
Skip - “You, my friend, are an idot .Fred in Austell, you’re on the Braves pre-game. What’s your question ? ”
RIP Skip. It’s Cocktail Hour.
By Breeze
August 4, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this
Skip - “Welcome back to the Braves call-in show,let’s go to Bob in Marietta.”
Bob- “Skip, how do you think the DAWGS will do this year ? “
Skip - “You, my friend, are an idiot .Fred in Austell, you’re on the Braves pre-game. What’s your question ? ”
RIP Skip. It’s Cocktail Hour.
By SBP
August 4, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this
My whole life, Atlanta Braves baseball was sonymous with Skip Caray. I’ll always remember his distate for Atlanta traffic (especially over the last 2 seasons, with the downtown paving project), his hatred for Fox National broadcasts (always delaying the first pitch), and his true love of the game. Even when the Braves were bad, Skip was good. The barbeque isn’t bad, either. Thanks, Skip, for sharing your love with us. You’ll always be my #1 choice for commissioner.
By Al in Oregon
August 4, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this
Wonderful column and comments. I remember when we got TBS on our cable system up here back in the mid-80s, the Braves’ bad old days of “partial sellouts,” as Skip referred to them. I watched a lot of lousy baseball, but wonderful broadcasts with Skip, Pete and Ernie. Still my favorite Skip line… one game in San Francisco, the Braves had about eight hits, all of them doubles. “That’s not the Braves’ record,” Skip informed us. “Interestingly enough, that record was also set right here in San Francisco … one night over at Lefty O’Doul’s.” RIP
By Pete H
August 4, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this
I moved to Los Angeles from South Carolina back in 1988, and it was like living in another country. I would turn the TV to TBS just to hear Skip’s voice, and it felt both familiar and comforting. This is truly a sad day.
By SBP
August 4, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this
My whole life, Atlanta Braves baseball was sonymous with Skip Caray. I’ll always remember his distate for Atlanta traffic (especially over the last 2 seasons, with the downtown paving project), his hatred for Fox National broadcasts (always delaying the first pitch), and his true love of the game. Even when the Braves were bad, Skip was good. The barbeque isn’t bad, either. Thanks, Skip, for sharing your love with us. You’ll always be my #1 choice for commissioner.
By SEP
August 4, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this
Someone just reminded me of the wonderful nights listing to Skip talk about the movie following Braves baseball. To this day I regret I was unable to stay up late that night to watch Squirm and do a review of the movie. How I would have loved to have won the autographed baseball after Don picked the winner. You know what? I would not have minded if Don had doctored the baseball.
By mike
August 4, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this
Summer will never be the same.
By Al in Oregon
August 4, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this
correction
Wonderful column and comments. I remember when we got TBS on our cable system up here back in the mid-80s, the Braves’ bad old days of “partial sellouts,” as Skip referred to them. I watched a lot of lousy baseball, but wonderful broadcasts with Skip, Pete and Ernie. Still my favorite Skip line… one game in San Francisco, the Braves had about eight hits, all of them doubles. “That’s not the Braves’ record for doubles,” Skip informed us. “Interestingly enough, that record was also set right here in San Francisco … one night over at Lefty O’Doul’s.” RIP
By Chuck in Ms.
August 4, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this
Skip was real… genuine….. loved by those of us who love the Braves. What I will miss about him is to much to try to communicate. I feel a little empty right now…..
By Fuskie
August 4, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this
Yesterday, I took my family and friends to the Braves game to celebrate my birthday. My rejoicing of the 5-0 shutout was short lived, however, when I was first texted of the loss of Skip Caray. Until that time, I did not feel old.
My condolences to the Caray family, his fellow broadcasters who are hurting today, the players who looked up to Skip with professional respect, the fans who look at him as a friend, and to the youth who never knew the Braves ever existed without him.
It is probably no coincidence that my first recollections of being a Braves fan date back to Skip’s first years as a Braves broadcaster. I never met Skip Caray but growing up I always believed he knew me so well because the way he broadcast the games brought me to the ballpark with him.
I would often listen to game on the radio in the background and whatever I was doing, there was one thing that would always cause me to lift my head, shut my eyes, and visualize the action: There’s a drive… deep left field… way back… it’s out of here!
Fuskie Whose mourning has been eased by the communal sharing of memories here…
By TW
August 4, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this
Something that only true Braves fans know is that the best coverage of the game was always on the radio. Even the game was on TV, you turned the sound off and tuned in the game on the radio station. Skip was more truly Skip on the radio mike than anywhere else in the world. It is a sad day now that he’s gone.
TW
By Kelley
August 4, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this
No more of hearing “and a fan from Flowery Branch came away with the foul ball.”
I will think of Skip every time I see the Wave and every time the Braves have Bark in the Park (one of his favorites).
I heard him wonder a few weeks ago on the air, what would happen if at a game they didn’t play all the music before each at bat and in between innings? That it would be a good old fashioned baseball game. Maybe in his honor the Braves should do so for one of their upcoming home games.
I will also think of Skip each time I take a call on my cell phone while attending a game (also something he was not too particulary fond of) and each time the DOT causes traffic after a game.
Thanks for your article Mark, I have shed many a tear today in Skip’s memory.
And to Skip, as you always signed off…. SO LONG.
By Vince
August 4, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this
Braves win! Braves win! Braves win! no one who witnessed that game and listened to Skip’s call can ever forget it. You remember running with Sid, you remember how high you jumped, how mad your wife was when you woke her up. Thanks for everything Skip. R.I.P.
By hatfieldgeoff
August 4, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this
Like many others in Atlanta my first memories of Skip were as the Hawks announcer. He was young Irreverent, Sarcastic and witty. As a 15 year old, you really did listen and watch the Hawks and later the Braves just to hear Skip. Why else would you tune in to a team 20 games out of first place. Just like Mark Bradley I remember, Skips often heard line about “If you promise to patronize our sponsors you can go and walk the dog.,” But early in his career it was less subtle or front-0ffice friendly. I remember once in his early days with the Hawks as Lou Hudson and John Drew were being pummeled by the Celtics in Boston (by about 30 points)Skip got out a copy of TV guide and was telling his TV audience what was on the other channels. While I have no doubts he was sincere, I’m sure he knew he had us hooked and we wouldn’t tune him off. We might miss a great line. Thanks Skip, for narrating my sporting life. I’ll drink to you next time I’m at the bottom of another Fifth.
By RB
August 4, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this
Thanks for all the memories Skip. My brother and I grew up listining to you Skip. You will never be replaced and will be greatly missed. RIP.
By Ed
August 4, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this
I will always remember how Skip would say “we move along to the (fill in the blank) inning” as a subtle - or not so subtle - way of expressing his frustration at a ballgame that was dragging along too slowly. He would have hated working the American League. He was definitely one of a kind.
By Amy
August 4, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this
God bless you, Skip. You were the best.
By Skip
August 4, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this
Remember everyone, Don’t step on down power lines.
By wes
August 4, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this
Skip during a lopsided affair in the late 1970’s — afternoon TBS game: “Hurry up fellas, the cocktail hour is upon us…” He was a classic….
By Phillip
August 4, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this
Watching the Braves just won’t be the same. No matter what kind of mood I was in, if I turned on the TV and heard Skip’s voice he always could make me laugh. So in his memory, let’s shut down DOT, that would make him happy.
By UGA_gal
August 4, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this
While not a Skip-ism, my favorite memory of Skip on the air was the night he let his son, Josh, take over the microphone. The Braves were losing (badly) but you could hear the pride in Skip’s voice when he re-took the mike after his son’s inning of airtime.
To the entire Caray family, we mourn the loss of Skip with you. May the memories of his life and his legacy comfort you.
By Dave
August 4, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this
As a poor law student in Tallahassee in the late 70’s, TBS was one of our few affordable entertainment options. Listening to Skip and the gang call otherwise crappy Braves game was never dull and often laugh out loud funny. I’ll always fondly remember Skip.
By Ziq
August 4, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this
I was about 9 years old when I first start following the Braves. As I turned 38 this past June, one constant thing I grew to enjoy was Skip being Skip. Braves baseball just isn’t baseball without Skip’s voice cracking through the radio that sits on my computer desk as I’m busy at work or in my car. I will miss the classic tone of his voice, his comedy, and the excitement he was sure to instill as the Braves got it going.
I often ran through the house (as if someone was screaming for help) to get to the TV as Skip was making one of his historic calls.
I only hope that my sons can enjoy Chip and Josh as much as my father and I enjoyed Harry and Skip.
So Long Skip!!!
By Braves Fan
August 4, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this
Like many others on this site, I grew up in Georgia and then moved away. I can’t even express how soothing I found Skip’s familar voice down in Mexico or southern California or even in rural Iowa for 3 summers. No matter where I lived and travelled, listening to Skip’s TBS broadcast was equivalent to hearing my dad on the telephone—miles & miles of distance between me and my beloved pine trees, crickets, and Braves on a summer night in Georgia…years and years between the present and my childhood…but the voice would bring me home. I lost my own dad last year. I live in Cincinnati now and heard this sad news on the radio while driving into work this morning. How fresh it brings back the memory of daddy’s passing. I believe it was Winston Churchill who said, “The lamps of my youth are going out, and I don’t think I will see them again.”
By Reg
August 4, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this
You were often more fun to listen to than the Braves or Hawks. Rest in peace Skip. For you it is finally cocktail hour….
By W. E. Jessup
August 4, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this
Thanks, Mark, for a fine tribute to Skip. Skip's dry wit was so refreshing! Before he and Ernie and Pete (and later, Don Sutton) teamed up to eclipse all other baseball broadcasting teams, I had enjoyed Dizzy Dean and Peewee Reese, Ernie Harwell, Mel Allen, Bob Prince, Red Barber, Vin Scully, and Skip's dad, Harry Caray. None, however, had Skip's fearless heart for the game. Yes, he could be sarcastic, but that's what endeared him to us. You knew that he knew the game so well and that he saw himself as a fan, as one of us, and that he wanted the best for us. Until Ted Turner rescued the Braves (and us), we had waited for a respectable team for what seemed like an eternity. Skip identified with us and sympathized with our frustration. When the Braves finally began to win consistently, no one deserved the elation more than Skip (and Ernie and Pete). Skip told so many great jokes, but one stands out in my mind: His attempt to interview the San Diego Chicken was typically hilarious. Of course, the mute chicken (Ted Giannoulas) never answered Skip's only question: "Why did you cross the road?" That routine epitomized Skip and his inimitable humor. We won't see his like again (although Chip and Josh will continue to do well). Skip should be ushered into the Hall of Fame right away. We all have big holes in our hearts today. Rest easy, Skip. We love you and miss you.By AR
August 4, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this
Skip will be greatly missed! He was too funny. I remember when he started with Braves and have enjoyed his humor across the years. While in the Navy I would catch a broadcast on Armed Forces Radio from time to time, and Skip, Ernie, Pete, and other announcers were a joy to hear when far from home. During a game around 1990, news came over the wire that former NBA player Ralph Sampson was going to Hong Kong to help start a basketball league there. Skip, putting a spin on the old saying about Chinese restaurants, says; “the thing about Chinese basketball teams is, an hour after you beat ‘em, you want to beat ‘em again!” We were lucky to have him calling games for our favorite team. Godspeed Skip.
By Scott
August 4, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this
RIP Skip…..I loved when a game was about to go into extra innings, he’s say “looks like some free baseball”…he was the best
By Rick in Chattanooga
August 4, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this
Yep, Skip was perfect for TBS in the early years of cable TV (much like Bill Tush) when you didn’t know what to expect next. That was great TV.
I remember a game back in the 80s when Skip was reading the TV Guide description of the Braves games. The description said something like “laid-back announcing crew” and Skip wondered aloud about that the entire night.
I remember driving back from Myrtle Beach in the fall of ‘83, the Braves in a Division run, and having to find the broadcast on local rural radio in South Carolina.
I hope Skip gets his place in Cooperstown as he has earned it as being a voice of baseball in the South.
By Billy
August 4, 2008 5:41 PM | Link to this
This is a sad day for any true Braves fan. I hope that people will someday put Skip in the same pantheon with his dad, Vin Scully, and Ernie Harwell. He’s truly a legend. As an Atlanta expatriate, anytime that I could hear him do a game, it reminded me of growing up. I’ll never be able to watch the Braves the same way again.
By Dan in Ohio
August 4, 2008 6:03 PM | Link to this
I’m surprised and pleased over all the response here about Skip. I have been a fan of the Braves and Skip since I was a youngster. I moved from Tennessee to Ohio nearly 20 years ago, but it was easy to follow the Braves via TBS. I was disappointed when TBS got the new weekly baseball contract. Last month I was in Chattanooga visiting family. I turned on the hotel TV, and there were the Braves on Peachtree, complete with Skip and Pete. I even heard one of Skip’s fan IDs on a foul ball. It brought back a lot of memories. As it turned out, it was the last game that I would hear him. As Skip might say, “What a revolting development.”
By Theron Bell
August 4, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this
I have loved Skip since I started scoring games as a 10 year old. My favorite Skip moments:
I loved when Skip would poke fun at full figured umpire Eric Gregg, calling Gregg, “…my kind of umpire…”
I loved when games were slow and lopsided and after two hours in the fifth Skip would say, “…we’re just skippin’ right along…”
I loved when Skip’s defiance towards TBS Management would come through on air and Skip would tell an inside joke that would burn TBS Management and then son Chip would be laughing so hard that Chip could barely say, “…you just couldn’t resist could you?”
I taught my 7 year old son Skip’s call of the Sid Bream slide. My son and I act out the play in the backyard and use Skip’s call as the wiffle ball is thrown home; I feel like and I hope that Skip can live on through my son.
I get chills when I hear Skip - or my son’s remake - of this remarkable call.
As Skip and Chip were signing off during the final Braves TBS Broadcast, Skip turned the last few moments to Chip so he could “gather himself”, then, after Chip went back to Skip for the final time, Skip went on to “…thank the fans…”
It was at this moment, if you listen and look into Skip’s eyes, that you can feel Skip’s sincerity and integrity.
I taped that final broadcast and I love to listen to Skip over and over signing off for the last time.
Every time I hear Skip sign off, I cry.
Skip Caray - I love you.
Just as you ended all your broadcasts, I say back to you with a heavy heart:
“So long, Skip…”
Theron Bell
By heybud1508
August 4, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this
I was sad to hear that Skip Caray passed away yesterday during a nap at his home.
Although I was more partial to Ernie Johnson and Pete Van Wieren as Braves announcers, I certainly recognized the national and local appeal of Skip as far back as the when he used to call Atlanta Hawks games.
There were times I chafed at the way he treated callers on his radio sports talk show, he was always honest, many times entertaining, and unique in his style.
He will be missed not just by Atlanta Braves fans but by all of baseball.
Although he wasn’t my favorite Braves announcer, I will miss him as well.
By heybud1508
August 4, 2008 6:43 PM | Link to this
I was sad to hear that Skip Caray passed away yesterday during a nap at his home.
Although I was more partial to Ernie Johnson and Pete Van Wieren as Braves announcers, I certainly recognized the national and local appeal of Skip as far back as the days when he used to call Atlanta Hawks games.
There were times I chafed at the way he treated callers on his radio sports talk show, but he was always honest, many times entertaining, and very unique in his style.
He will be missed not just by Atlanta Braves fans but by all of baseball.
Although he wasn’t my favorite Braves announcer, I will miss him as well.
By Gmerlo
August 4, 2008 6:52 PM | Link to this
You will be missed. It will be difficult to watch another Braves game and not hear your voice. My heart goes out to your family and to all that have you have touched with your humor and wit. God Bless
By Tim
August 4, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this
Skip, Pete, Don and Joe rode home with me many nights as I drove in from grad school classes in Tuscaloosa back to North Alabama. I will never forget those summer nights riding along and listening to a “fan from Vidalia caught that foul ball.”
By Hal Haney
August 4, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this
I’ll tell you a real tragedy in the spirit that I believe Skip would have appreciated… no matter how hard he tried, he couldn’t live long enough to see them take a wrecking ball to Shea Stadium. Lord knows he would have really enjoyed that. I’m gonna miss you Skip.
By CPT BRENT BAGLEY
August 4, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this
Skip’s an Atlanta treasure and will be missed. Thanks for the nice article, Mark.
By Pat Skinner
August 4, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the great article, Mark. You have summed it all up pretty well.
I read of Skip’s passing last night just before I went to bed. I couldn’t sleep. I’ve been watching and listening to Braves’ games for about 25 years, and the main reason they were so enjoyable was Skip and his wit. I like Pete and Joe and Don, but Skip has always been the voice of the team for me.
I have recently moved to New York, and have only been able to hear the games on XM radio. The games were always more fun when Skip was there.
I will miss him. I hope its of some comfort to his family to know that he was so well thought of and to know that their grief will be shared by so many.
“Chopper to Chipper” has become part of my and my wife’s vocabulary. Rest in peace, Skip.
By Mark Bradley
August 4, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this
Thanks yet again for all the kind words and for your personal remembrances. I’m sure the Caray family will see this page.
By Randy
August 4, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this
Skip was a great announcer, but I also remember when he showed that he knew that sports had it’s place. On the evening of the Challenger tragedy, he closed his sports report on WSB by saying “and that’s sports, on a day when sports really don’t matter.” Over 22 years later, I still remember the solemn and respectfull tone in Skip’s voice at that time. Rest in peace, Skip.
By Keeping It Real
August 4, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this
Who will ever forget Skip’s call of Sid Bream sliding safely home on Francisco Cabrera’s hit. BRAVES WIN!!! BRAVES WIN!!! BRAVES WIN!!! We will miss you Skip.
By Jim Johnson
August 4, 2008 9:25 PM | Link to this
“And after tonights hawks game, I am gonna do exactly what happened to the hawks tonight and that’s get blasted”
some marathon game with the Mets, 19-20 innings, “immediately after the game is the TBS late movie, and then after the movie would you believe it, is Braves bseball again.”
By SadBravesFan
August 4, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this
I’ve teared up all day, every time I tried to read an article or column about Skip’s passing. I know he would want us to go on as usual but I’m going to take just one day to mourn the passing of a man I’ve listened to, laughed with, cheered with, admired for over 30 years. He gave life to the broadcasts when there seamed to be no life on the team and he was there for all the great moments. Thank you, God, for this honest man. He’ll be missed. Even though I know he wouldn’t have been in SF tonight because of his health, the broadcast will still lack some luster. I’m muting the TV and listening to Pete tonight. Skip, this fan is from Atlanta.
By Chopdawg
August 4, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this
First memory of Skip: 1964 Atlanta Crackers broadcast, hot, showery Sunday afternoon; when the game was finally called, Skip intoned “and the umpire says…let’s don’t play anymore.”
CHOP
By TE
August 4, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this
Skip was the Voice of the Bravos when I lived in Missouri (in the mid to late-80s) and later in Richmond VA (87-93) on TBS; and then on WJOX and TBS in B’ham (throughout the 90’s). In B’ham I would sometimes turn the TV volume down and turn on the radio just to hear Skip and co. call the game. Funniest moments: Skip when he wondered aloud what “Fleet” sold and then someone apparently told him (when the Bravos first played Fenway) and hearing him chuckle and get away from the mic; and everytime Rick Camp came to bat (“mommas…cover your Kid’s eyes…this won’t be pretty). I wish I had met him…I blew my chance, Busch Stadium, summer of ‘85. I wanted to tell him what a great announcer I thot he was.
By Jim G
August 5, 2008 12:00 AM | Link to this
1981 listening for the first time to a Hawks game on TBS in Kentucky and couldn’t believe this announcer at the game was thinking “who is this guy” talking about fast Eddie Johnson and Dan Roundfield he was great and sarcastic and just plain different. Heard him on a podcast a few months ago out of Seattle and knew something was wrong he was coughing and didn’t sound like himself. RIP Skip you’ll be missed.
By CHRIS FORRESTER
August 5, 2008 12:03 AM | Link to this
I am not a Braves fan, but just by his voice I would always listen to the game. At times, when the game was dull, you made it worthwhile listening to. RIP…
By MP
August 5, 2008 12:09 AM | Link to this
reading some of the comments about skip’s humorous quips reminded me of one game years ago at the old fulton county stadium when they had the camera right behind home plate. a moth landed perfectly in the view of the camera up close and skip didn’t miss a beat in saying, “and, the stealth bomber has just made an appearance tonight.” hahahaha!!! just one more of those “skip moments” that cracked me up. we’ll miss you skip … RIP.
By Butch in Aiken
August 5, 2008 12:43 AM | Link to this
Skip on a Hawks broadcast in 1978: “Here’s the replay if you care to watch. Personally, I don’t.”
By Casey Trowbridge
August 5, 2008 1:13 AM | Link to this
Mark, thank you for the fine article.
I’m from South Dakota and the first baseball game I ever remember sitting through was a Braves game on TBS and it was 1991 and I was all of 10 years old. I kept watching those games on TBS but I didn’t truly fall in love with the sport until 1993 and the race with the Giants.
Skip Caray was far and away my favorite announcer of a group where I enjoyed all of them. When I really think about it, no one individual is as responsible for me being a baseball fan as Skip Caray. I heard Skip before I heard his dad and I felt a deep loss when Harry died. But it is nothing like this.
I was confused when TBS made the decision to take him off of television and happy when he came back. I subscribed to MLB’s audio package so I could hear him call games on the radio and now my gameday audio subscription can’t even do that anymore.
I feel a deep loss, and I never knew the man personally. I can’t even imagine how this is effecting his family right now.
I just want to say thanks to Skip for 17 years of memories and for making me a baseball fan.
R.I.P. I will miss you more than I would have ever thought possible.
By wiki
August 5, 2008 1:24 AM | Link to this
By Hillbilly Deluxe August 4, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this
My favorite memory of Skip doesn’t translate well to print I guess. Probably early 80’s Skip is doing an onfield post-game TV interview with Dale Murphy at Wrigley Field. Skip had on a really loud pink shirt. Some guy in the stands (quite possibly a tad in his cups) kept yelling, “Hey Caray..no more pink shirts!!” Murphy was laughing so hard he couldn’t even answer any of Skip’s questions. Skip yells at the guy “OK no more pink shirts, go out and play in the traffic will ya?”….By this point Murphy has completely lost it and can’t talk at all….Skip looks at him, dead serious, and says, “Murph I’m trying to make a living, help me out here will you?”….
Oh my….I remember that one as well. It was in 1980. Thanks for the memory.
By dwaynerice
August 5, 2008 1:30 AM | Link to this
You will be forever missed, forever treasured, Skip. My condolences to the entire Caray family and Braves organization. I can hear Skip now, in my mind’s eye, when something was awry, out of place, and I hear it now that you are gone; something is missing, out of place: “What in the world is going on here?” Lovers of Braves’ baseball, or baseball all over, who ever heard you, will never forget your way of bringing to us the game we love and of telling it like it is in your unmatched wit and wisdom. RIP Skip, and God bless
By Michael Price
August 5, 2008 1:39 AM | Link to this
There’s an old country song with the line “watched the Braves even thru the rotten years”. Skip carried us thru all of it. From watching the 91 NL series with picture from CBS and the sound from Braves radio (the best way to watch a game!) & Skip’s call of Bream scoring (still an adrenaline rush all these years later) to remembering to “walk the dog as long as you patronize our sponsors”, all of it was Skip Caray.I shed my share of tears losing my mom in early April, and losing the voice of my team-some more now. May Skip be calling games with his dad & always calling chmpionship series upstairs. As far as I’m conerned-he should be on the wall at the Ted with the players. He,to the Braves, was what Jack Buck was to St. Louis and his dad to Chicago-baseball! As much as we love hearing Pete Van Wieren, not having Skip-is like Abbott without Costello! Baseball has lost a voice that’ll never get as much credit as it deserves!
By Curt Woodcock
August 5, 2008 2:54 AM | Link to this
I was a wide-eyed 12-year-old in 1966 when I watched the Braves play in their new stadium and enjoyed listening to Milo and Ernie. In my twenties I lived in Chicago only a few blocks from Wrigley and was thrilled to see Harry Carey work his magic in the old ball park while I sat with the bleacher bums in the outfield. Most of my adult life I’ve lived in Oregon and immensely enjoyed following my Braves on TBS over the years and always sincerely appreciated Skip Carey’s straight-shooting style of announcing the games. Skip will always be the Voice of the Braves. My thoughts and prayers are with the Carey family. I genuinely appreciate the contributions that the Carey family has made to the game of baseball over the years and I look forward in years to come to enjoying Skip’s sons on the airwaves! God Bless You Skip as your spirit continues its journey.
By Mitch
August 5, 2008 4:47 AM | Link to this
I’m 38 years old, and have been a Braves fan since I was 13. I truly feel like I lost a friend on Sunday evening when Skip passed away. I met him once at spring training, in the old Braves complex at West Palm Beach, when I was a teenager. He signed a baseball for me that I still have.
I think back to the nights in the 1980s, when the Braves were not a good team, and yet, when you turned on TBS, there was Skip for four and a half innings, making humor about a Rick Mahler pitching outing, or a Gerald Perry fielding play.
Then, during the championship years. The "Braves Lead, Braves Lead" call of the Dave Justice homer off Rob Dibble during the 1991 pennant chase with LA. Even the calls we didnt hear live, that were part of the Braves season highlight tapes during the championship years. The "Braves Win, Braves Win" call in 1992, when Sid Bream slid at home plate, after the Frank Cabrera hit. And, of course the granddaddy of them all, Saturday night, October 28, 1995, the best day in Braves history, the "Fly ball, deep left center, Grissom on the run, and then YES, YES, The Atlanta Braves have given you a championship! Skip called them all. So many thousands of calls, and so many thousands of Braves games. He did so with honor, integrity, and a class all his own.This has been a cruel season for the Braves, with the injuries, and unfulfilled expectations, but Sunday night was the cruelest blow of them all, as a good friend to so many, was taken from us far, far too soon.
Rest In Peace, Skip, this Braves fan of 26 will greatly miss you, and he thanks you, for all the wonderful sports entertainment you provided through the years. MitchBy Andi L
August 5, 2008 6:58 AM | Link to this
Ohhh Skip ….. You were more than just “The Voice of The Braves” …. You were its “Heart”&”Soul”.
In the meantime Mr. Cary ……….. Take a peek down from that great big Heavenly Press Box in the sky & look how many lives you touched over the years. Can you see all the tears pouring out of ATL fans? And No Skip, its not because of stolen bases but from broken hearts missing you.
I was just a little girl with pig tails & skinned up knees when I 1st heard Skip on my transistor radio 4 decades ago. And it didn’t take him very long transforming me into a die-hard Bravo fan for life.
His trusted eyes & ears shared so many special Brave moments around the eager masses. And he conveyed them in a “Skip-ism lingo” kind of way that the hometown crowd learned to love. His ‘play by plays” made him a tried & true friend to thousands of countless faces. He was consistently the ATL fan favorite -and often counted on his enthusiasm to bring us to our feet, put us on the edge of our seat or keep us from leaving our seat if trailing 8 runs back in the 9th. Skip’s heart always held a special spot for our ATL Boys of Summer. You heard it often in his voice. He also could talk fans thru the worst of times and the best of times or sometimes use both in a really tough inning. Bottom line, Mr. Skip Cary left us a lot of wonderful memories. Not only was he the Voice of Reason ……. But mostly the very Reason we loved watching our beloved Bravo’s with him!
Hey Skip, while you’re up there …… tell God Atlanta wished he had left you in for a few more extra innings. xoxox
By CPT BRENT BAGLEY
August 5, 2008 9:43 AM | Link to this
Our thoughts and prayers for Paula, Chip and the whole Carey family. In a season where injuries, one-run losses and such have affected the Braves, the loss of Skip Carey hurts bigtime! For 40 plus years, Skip has been an Atlanta treasure that will always be a part of the city’s fabric. We are all blessed to have been a part of it. Thanks for the memories!
By Mike
August 5, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this
Skip Carey was simply the best! As a life-long Braves fan, I can still remember how angry I was when Skip and Pete were taken off T.V. and relegated to radio…guess what…that meant that I turned down the T.V. and listened to the radio! He was certainly one of a kind and made baseball the game it is to me today…Thanks Skip!
By Sharon C
August 5, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this
My father was a sports broadcaster in Marietta, GA during the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s. With his press pass he would take me to games, taught me how to keep score, and cheer on the team good, bad or indifferent. He never thought much of the announcers for the Braves until the combination of Ernie and Skip came along with Pete. Then, we HAD to take the radio along to the stadium to listen to “the best announcers in baseball”.
My Dad passed away last year - still watching the Braves and listening to Skip on the radio. I feel like I’ve now lost both of my favorite announcers - my Dad and Skip.
To honor you both I will now “call” the game at home with many more “choppers to Chipper”, “there’s a drive”, and all those wonderful phrases you made your own and, thus, ours.
Thanks, Skip for all the great memories I have from you, the Braves, and Dad.
By Shawn Miller
August 5, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this
I was a little boy then… Going to my Mamaw & Pa’s house in Hattiesburg, MS. Pa sitting on the floor. Mamaw in her chair. The Air Conditioning Window unit on full blast. Braves baseball on TBS…
Skip, Pete, Joe, & Don…
So Long Skip, So Long Everybody….
By Jeremy B
August 5, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this
Because of Skip’s impact on me, I wanted to share what I wrote about him:
On Sunday evening, long time Atlanta Braves broadcaster, Skip Caray, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 68. Skip Caray is the son of the legendary Cubs broadcaster, Harry Caray, and was regarded as one of the great broadcasters in the game. Skip was hired by the Braves in 1976 and was known for his sarcastic wit, humor, and honesty (even to a fault). For the last few seasons, Skip got to work with his son Chip as a member of the Braves broadcast team. Over the last couple of seasons, Skip had some health problems which limited his work with the Braves. On Sunday, he collapsed and died at his home while feeding the birds in his yard. Despite his health problems, this was a shock to his family, the Braves organization, and to the baseball world.
It shocked and saddened me as well. When I began reading the stories about Skip and re-living the audio broadcast of the Braves 1992 NLCS win over Pittsburgh ( two words - Sid Bream), I cried. I hadn’t planned on it. I had heard on my way to work that he had died and I was shocked. However, when I began to read about it and it began to sink in, the tears flowed. I cried for 10 minutes or so, going through more tissues than I could count.
Skip Caray was my favorite Braves announcer. I loved his nasally voice, his wit and sarcasm, his stories, and just those things that made him unique as an announcer (he used to say things like “and a fan from Macon, Georgia caught that foul ball” making little kids everywhere think that Skip knew where every person in the stands was from). I started watching the Braves in 1984 and watched well over a 100 games a year as a kid all the way through high school and even into college. It was something we did almost every night as a family. In sports, players come and go. However, the announcers rarely change and they are your lifeline to the team. It is through them that you get to know the team and get those descriptions of everything that happens on the field. In many ways, it is the announcers that are the face and personality of your team. And for me, Skip Caray was that. There are no memories about the Braves or baseball without him. For many summers throughout my childhood, Skip Caray, Pete Van Wieren, Don Sutton, Joe Simpson (and others) were part of my family nearly every night. Some of those combinations I loved and Skip and Pete were the best. I remember games and have many childhood memories that are associated with those voices. And Skip was always my favorite, flaws and all.
So when he passed away so suddenly, I felt as if part of my childhood, my memories, and a member of my family died. I can’t quite explain or put into words the feelings, memories, and experiences that are tied to Braves games and Skip Caray. It’s something I can re-live, remember, and feel but never really explain. It’s just part of me and my childhood. And I will always remember that.
Rest in peace, Skip. And thank you.
By Jeremy B
August 5, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this
To all of you who have commented and shared stories, thank you. I have just spent the last few minutes crying all over again.
By jake
August 5, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this
And in hell he lifted up his eyes
By Mike in Acworth
August 5, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this
Hey Milo! When I saw your name it brought back memories - like how I wish to God it was Ernie that called 715 for Hank that night instead of you, Jerk! Thanks for going to HURLston!
By Ronald Jeffcoat
August 5, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this
As I sat and tried to think of a specific story about Skip that I remembered, I couldn’t. I couldn’t remember the way he scorched people on the call-in show; I couldn’t remember the stories of late night frolic and adult beverages; I couldn’t remember the stories he and Pete told about Glenn Diamond, thier producer; and I couldn’t remember the puns, jokes, and mistakes. But I could remember how they made me feel…Like part of the family, the Braves family. I will miss you Uncle Skip. R.I.P. and condolences to the Carey family.
By Jeremiah
August 5, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this
Is Skip Caray a hall-of-Famer? I don’t know what critera are used, or what the time frame is. But, there can’t be too many other announcers that have meant as much to an organization for so long as Skip did to the Braves.
By Bill
August 5, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this
What can be said that already hasn’t.
By Bill
August 5, 2008 10:15 PM | Link to this
What can be said that already hasn’t.
By Ralph
August 6, 2008 12:09 AM | Link to this
Skip Caray was and always will be the voice of the Atlanta, Brave. When TBS took him of the air, and try to be little him, they show the type of organization they were. The removable of Skip show that change is not better, especially when you replace the best, with a second class announcers. What I liked about Skip, is that he called the games in a simple way, he didn’t have to talk every minute he was on the air, and the best part was he told it the way it was, and didn’t make excuses when the team played bad. I notice that there are announcers, that show which player they favor, and which one they done. I never heard Skip, favor or dislike a player, publicly, he treated them all the same. TBS, quality has going down, they most likely have a bunch of young hard heads, calling the shots, with their little brain, thinking that change is good, little they know. Good, for Mrs. Caray, for speaking her mined. Baseball in Atlanta won’t be the same without Skip, my sorrow, go to the family.
By charlotte
August 6, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this
Here’s hoping St. Peter understands the Infield Fly Rule.
By charlotte williams
August 6, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this
Here’s hoping St. Peter understands the Infield Fly Rule.
By Brian
August 6, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this
Back when Skip was the announcer for the Hawks. Atlanta was playing Golden State on a rare late Sunday afternoon game and losing. Near the end of the game Skip gave the word for us to go walk the dog. But the Hawks came back and won the game. I don’t think many teams came back to win after Skip announced it was “time to walk the dog.” Rest in Peace Skip
By TRoberts
August 6, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this
One of my favorite Skip lines from the late 70’s/early 80’s - Turning over the broadcast to his partner, Skip said “and here’s the man who made E6 a popular phrase, Darrell Chaney”
By ClaudeM
August 7, 2008 2:13 AM | Link to this
One night while announcing a Hawks game, Skip read a promotion for an upcoming David Bowie appearance at the Omni. After he read the promotion he said, “Whoever David Bowie is.” He must have gotten several complaints about his remark because the next night he apologized for not knowing who David Bowie was. He went on to say he had looked it up and found that David Bowie was the number one male vocalist in the country. Skip paused for a second or two then added, “and he’s the number four FEmale vocalist in the country.” Irreverant. Great wit. Atlanta and the Braves will never be the same without him and neither will we, his fans. Thanks, and RIP Skip.
By fraziercpa
August 7, 2008 7:31 AM | Link to this
Yep….he did it his way..arrogant, incredibly rude to you in person and as a co-worker…may his family now rip
By John D
August 8, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this
I met Skip in 1968 and will miss him, curmudgeon though he may have been, he treated this college kid as an equal.
We may not speak for extended periods but he always said hello as though we saw each other every day. You could count on a joke or a wise crack but he was always warm and friendly.
Rest in peace, Skip.
By Dave
August 8, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this
Braves lose!Braves lose! Braves lose! the best sports announcer this town will ever have. In my oppinion that ever was. We were all so very lucky to have had Skip in our lives even if it was for only a few hours a day during baseball season. An annuoncer like Skip comes along so very rarely,we must all learn to apprieciate them more while they are still with us. May God comfort the Caray family in their sorrow.
By Don B in Greenville SC
August 10, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this
My favorite Skip saying was when he was doing the Hawks solo and the Hawks were really stinking it up one night and Skip retorted ‘I’m just sure that this was not what Dr. Naismith had in mind when he invented the game.” Skip was great and I’ll miss him.
By Wendy Ross
August 13, 2008 10:52 PM | Link to this
By Wendy & Charlie in Ball Ground, GA August 13th, 2008
We have lost one of the best announcers ever, but he will forever be a part of the Braves and always in our hearts!!!
Thank you for all the great years and the play by plays that will go down in history and never be forgotten!!!
We loved to hear your color commentary during the games and boy was it colorful!!! Even though we never really knew you personally it feels like we just lost family member. You gave us of lot of great memories that put big smiles on our faces and a lot of laughter in our home and we will always love you and never forget you!!! Carry on Chip and Josh! I’m sure your Dad was very proud of you and we’re blessed that part of your Dad has been left behind to carry on your his tradition!!! Thank you!!!
Good-bye for now!!!
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September 1, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this
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By Margie A.
September 5, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this
Skip Carey was my favorite announcer, his great sense of humour and wit will be missed always. Things just don`t seem the same without him. My father passed away in 2003 we loved to watch the Braves games together, I miss him so much and now I miss Skip too.
By Sharon
September 20, 2008 2:26 AM | Link to this
Nice good blog!