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Home > Mark Bradley > Archives > 2008 > October > 21 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USThe Professor’s gone, but not forgotten
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Pete Van Wieren was Dick Smothers, or Dan Rowan, or Dean Martin when suave Dino was half of Martin & Lewis. Pete wasn’t the guy who told the jokes, but he was the guy who made the jokes resonate. He was the straight man to Skip Caray’s smart aleck, the balance in the last great booth of an era now officially at its end.
The Professor announced his retirement Tuesday, and his leaving is altogether fitting — why keep talking when you’ve done everything you’ve wanted to do and said everything there is to say? — but massively sad. We as listeners are left with no link to the formative days of TBS and their silly slogans (remember “One Crazy Summer”?) and the giddy sensation that Ted and the boys were flying by the seat of their khaki pants.
Those were the Braves before they went corporate, before they started winning. It was a time when cable TV wasn’t treated as an inalienable right but as the coolest Christmas present any of us ever got. Those were the Braves of good ol’ Ernie and funny ol’ Skip and the learned Professor, and those were, in the grand scheme of things, as good as broadcasting ever got.
Pete would give us the numbers. Skip would laugh at the guy in the mezzanine wearing the funny hat. Ernie Johnson, his voice as comfortable as a broken-in slipper, would say, “We’re zippin’ right along.” Ol’ Ernie was pretty much gone by the time the Braves got good, but Pete and Skip zipped merrily along, becoming not just a novelty act but the aural chroniclers of one of the best baseball runs ever.
As nice as the tributes to Skip were in his passing, the one regret was that Pete wasn’t quite given his due. As good as they were with other partners, they were matchless as a pair. Skip played off Pete and Pete set up Skip. Two Skips would have been too much, and two Petes not enough, but together they were just right.
One of the truly inside bits of inside baseball was this: Pete’s a funny guy himself. He just left the funny business to others while on-air. On Tuesday he noted he had two granddaughters and a third on the way, and he said, “That means I’ll get to see a lot of movies with the words ‘enchanted’ and ‘princesses’ in the titles.”
Pete Van Wieren’s dream job was to be the play-by-play voice of the Rochester Red Wings, his hometown minor-league team. He never got to do that, but the Red Wings did, he said, “give me a brick in their Walk of Fame. So that was nice.”
The Red Wings were not, however, one of the three entities that called within two hours of his announcement to offer work. “If I’d known that would happen, maybe I’d have done this 10 years ago,” Pete said, but Pete doesn’t want a job. He wants to stop doing the job he did so seamlessly — that’s a John Schuerholz word, and here it fits seamlessly — for 33 years.
“I never wanted to get to the point where I couldn’t do this anymore,” Pete said, “because if you can’t do this you can’t do anything — all you’re doing is sitting and talking.”
We who sat and listened will miss him every bit as much as we’ve missed Skip, maybe even more. See, Pete’s was always the harder part. He had to do the homework and make sense of everything. He had to tell us how many outs there were when Skip was cracking jokes about alimony. Pete had to be the professional, and that’s the only real way to remember him.
Pete the pro’s pro. Pete the Professor. Pete Van Wieren — another great Atlanta voice gone but not forgotten. Never ever forgotten.
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By Dogbyte
October 21, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this
Thanks Mark, for a good tribute to the Professor. Yes, he was Skip’s straight man but the consummate pro as well. We will miss them both. Equally.
By Ted Striker
October 21, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this
We’d miss Pete (and his partners) under any circumstances, but his departure is even more pronounced in an era where announcers were one of the few remaining constants . For better or worse, MLB baseball has changed. It’s the result of expanded free agency, burgeoning corporate ownership, and TV-based revenue sharing.
If MLB had the humility of the minor leagues and college baseball, it would be a much better product.
By longtime braves fan
October 21, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this
For over 30 years, I have listened to Pete Van Wieren broadcast the Braves. During that time, I probably have heard him call 2500 or more Braves games. During that time the Braves have been wretched and marvelous and everything in between. Like Larry Munson and Skip Caray, I will miss Pete Van Wieren.
It is sad to lose those links to days gone by.
Thanks, Pete
By chris
October 21, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this
well done, mark. right on the money, as usual
By Mark
October 21, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this
Nice piece Mark. It is the end of an era —and for this 43 year old native of metro Atlanta who had listened to Ernie, Pete and Skip since their beginning— it’s just another reminder that I’m an adult and not a kid anymore, as one more element that evokes memories of said childhood has now disappeared.
By Bill D.
October 21, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this
I go back to the days when we were all young.No matter how bad the day had been it was made OK by the Braves game and the voices of Ernie,Pete and Skip.Pete earned the title “Professor” by his always professional attention to all the details of the games. I loved them all just life family. I will miss you old friend. Godspeed and happiness to you and your family in the future.
By KC&Cloudy Band
October 21, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this
If only the headline had read:Bobby Cox Retires
I hate to think we have another year of that moron on the bench.
By Murphy
October 21, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this
Very good read. Another sad day to cap off this season of saying goodbye to an era…to the voices of my childhood.
By Piersonbrave
October 21, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this
What a season to remember. The broadcasts will not seem the same now. I am sure that the new broadcasters will be good but it’s like loosing an old friend.
By Tom
October 21, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this
Pete Van Wieren was one of the best baseball announcers — and one of the most unsung — ever. His voice was pleasing to listen to, his style just right. He and Jon Miller are my two favorite baseball announcers of all the announcers I’ve heard in my life.
It’s sad to know that the guys who I listened to all those years when I lived in Atlanta from 1983 to 2000 are now gone from the Braves announcing team. Things will never be the same.
Good luck and best wishes, Pete. Thank you for all your years of dedication to great broadcasts with the Braves. Have a wonderful retirement.
By fansince66
October 21, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this
I remember Milo Hamilton and Larry Munson were the first announcers. Every fly ball was a drive - way back to Munson. Milo was never a fit especially after the altercation with Aaron. Then came Ernie, he was the best. I enjoyed Pete very much and had a lot of respect for his work. Now Skip could wear on your nerves, especially his sarcasism and his lack of patience on his call in show. The fan from _ caught that ball was funny the first time, but got old after that. Best luck in your retirement Pete, we will miss you. The booth will never be the same, just don”t bring back Don Sutton.
By Another Tom
October 21, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the article, Mark. And, Pete, thanks for many great memories. Your professionalism, attention to detail (statistical analysis) and cool demeanor always resonated with me. Nothing will get any better than Ernie, Pete & Skip.
By Mark Bradley
October 21, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the kind words, folks.
By louisville slugger
October 21, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this
End of an era. I’ll be raising a bourbon toast tonight not only to the Professor, but to Skip and Ernie too — the three guys who made Braves broadcasts worth listening to, even when the product wasn’t that great.
They don’t make ‘em like that anymore…
By prattvillenolzfan
October 21, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this
Anyone else besides me think that Smoltz “auditioning” in the booth during the playoffs was a coincidence…………..
By Scott
October 21, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this
Wow, it’s tough losing Skip, Larry, and Pete in three months’ time. I will sincerely miss all three of them. Enjoy your retirement Pete, you deserve it for a job well done.
By jd
October 21, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this
I really hate to see a true professional call it a day. I have enjoyed your commentary for nearly 30 years Pete. Much good luck in retirement but I would hope you return to the booth from time to time so the listeners can remember what a real announcer sounds like. Enjoy your summers!!
By jd
October 21, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this
By the way, it’s just like Pete to skip out without allot of fan fare. I think that pretty much says it all about Pete Van Wieren. A true professional.
By spotts
October 21, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this
I didn’t start watching/listening to Pete and Skip until the end of their tenure (about the last 5 years or so). Maybe it was because I was comparing them to the alternative (Rathbun and Paciorek, for example), but I could always tell that Pete and Skip were something special. Sad to know I missed so many years of their broadcasting (even though I wasn’t alive until they had been doing it for about 10 years) but I’ve still got plenty of memories from the past few years.
By Bullet
October 21, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this
I loved listening to Pete Van Wieren. Sports related, I can’t think of anything I enjoyed as much over the last 30 years. He was great. He was my hero. He was special. Thinking back now, I probably always wanted to be like him and wanted to be a sportscaster like him. Always prepared, always knowing the stats, always being able to explain the situation, the rule, or what just happened, and the historical context. I will miss him.
By jon712
October 21, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this
Many don’t remember that Larry Munson was on the Braves’ original broadcast team with Milo Hamilton.
We’ve been blessed to have announcers of the personal and professional quality of Pete, Ernie, Skip and Larry. I’ll always be grateful.
Still, as Paul Simon sang, “Who will be my role model now that all my role models are gone?”
Thanks for the memories.
By Rimfire
October 21, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this
…Gather up, let’s go, pitchers ready to throw…
It’s a brand new game!
By Rimfire
October 21, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
..Batter up, let’s go, pitchers ready to throw…It’s a brand new game!
By PistolPete
October 21, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this
Pete Van Wieren is the MOST INTELLIGENT announcer I have ever heard. He also has a very sharp, astute sense of humor and he always keeps his listening audience sharp and on the edge of their seats. I have come to appreciate his famous patented DIAMOND NOTES prior to every Braves broadcast, which has been filled with spectacular insights that you wouldnt be able to find elsewhere. He is called the professor because he has the ability to extrapolate some of the most astounding facts that you’d be hard-pressed to find yourself, that only he could come up with because only he can measure the empirical data it would take to deliver the facts. He is one of a kind and he along with his sidekick the late Skip Carey will be sorely missed. Good luck Pete; you will be great in your next endeavor as well.
By Rimfire
October 21, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this
…Batter up, let’s go, pitchers ready to throw…It’s a brand new game!
By Boo Boo
October 21, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this
Ernie Johnson was the one who called Pete “the Professor,” because Pete was smart and studied baseball, while Ernies was just an ex-player of baseball. That’s what old ball players called smart guys.
Between Skip having to say, “Well, we’re going to the bottom of another fifth,” (like being an alcholic was admirable) and Ernie always saying, “These people here in Atlanta they really know their baseball” (like it was surprising people in the South knew anything), Pete was the one who always told you something worth remembering, like a stat he found from the Elias Bureau or a conversation he had with one of the players.
To me, Pete was why I listened to Braves baseball games on WSB radio, and watched Braves baseball games through many losing seasons on Channel 17.
By USAFCCF
October 21, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this
Good luck and best wishes Pete! Enjoy your retirement with your family. Braves baseball on the radio will never be the same.
By kevinl
October 21, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this
whats goin on now the braves will need to get two new announcers i hope they get ernie johnson jr.to do games it wont be the same
By Braves Fan
October 21, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this
It truely is an end of an era. I too grew up listening to Pete and Skip. Pete did have the smoothest voice in baseball. Pete and Skip Murphy and Horner. It didn’t get better back in those days. Have a great retirement Pete!
By Braves Fan
October 21, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this
It truely is an end of an era. I too grew up listening to Pete and Skip. Pete did have the smoothest voice in baseball. Pete and Skip Murphy and Horner. It didn’t get better back in those days. Have a great retirement Pete!
By Braves Fan
October 21, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this
It truely is an end of an era. I too grew up listening to Pete and Skip. Pete did have the smoothest voice in baseball. Pete and Skip Murphy and Horner. It didn’t get better back in those days. Have a great retirement Pete!
By matt r
October 21, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this
Just thought I would mention that, to me, Mark Bradley is also a huge part of the fabric of Atlanta sports. I know I’m not the only one who looks forward to reading his columns after something happens in this town.
That is all.
By Mark Bradley
October 21, 2008 5:41 PM | Link to this
Thanks, Matt. I really appreciate that.
By mark
October 21, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this
I was 11 years old when Pete was hired. For most of my life I listen and watched him and Skip. I consider myself blessed to have such a experiece. A sad goodbye and warm salute to a real pro.
By Bo
October 21, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this
Matt R:
Ditto. I enjoy the content of Mark’s pieces as well as his manner of presentation. It’s often his job to criticize someone who’s not measuring up to expectations. His subjects may not like him, but surely they respect him. He is unique in that respect among AJC sports opinion writers, notwithstanding the nearly retired Furman Bisher.
Mark, nice work.
By Chop Chop
October 21, 2008 5:59 PM | Link to this
Great tribute, Mark.
I’m probably not the only one who has had this thought today, but I think Pete Van Wieren should officially be named Professor Emeritus of the Atlanta Braves. That would make for a really fine tribute at Turner Field next season.
By Mark Bradley
October 21, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this
Thanks, Bo. I think that’s one of the reasons I sort of identify with Pete. He was a pro. I try to be one. (Not saying I always succeed, but I do try.)
By Whopper Dawg
October 21, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this
What just a total treat it was to be a Braves fan and watch and listen on TBS. They were on everyday, mostly bad, but it was major league baseball everyday, and boy did we watch and laugh and pull for ‘em. Gaylord, Horner, the Murph’, Benedict trying to run to first. I could cook an egg he took so long, good defense through. Year after year. It was great, and then 91 and after. Wow, what wonderful memories. If people got on the bandwagon after the Bravos started winning, that is cool. But for us older guys, they became like family.
By HiIllbilly Deluxe
October 21, 2008 6:29 PM | Link to this
Pete, Skip, and Ernie each complimented the others. The sum was greater than the parts but each one was indispensable to the mix. They were definitely a breath of fresh air after Milo and it hasn’t been the same since they were split up.
By TPM
October 21, 2008 6:48 PM | Link to this
How about Glavine and Smoltz in the broadcasting booth ? They obviously can not pitch anymore and stole money last year. They need something to do.
By kool$kat
October 21, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this
Great article Mark. Hope the Braves have a tribute night for Pete. He deserves special recognition. I go back to Milo and Ernie, and I miss Ernie, too. I enjoyed Skip, Pete, Don and Joe! But Skip and Pete were the best. How will we know its spring? The grass will be green and flowers will bloom, but without their voices as the soundtrack, spring and summer evenings will never be the same!
By G M
October 21, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this
As PistolPete correctly said earlier, Pete showed a great sense of humor when calling games — he just was more subtle. I knew he was funny because he made Skip laugh, a difficult achievement in itself..
Enjoy your retirement, Professor. You will be missed.
By SCAMP
October 21, 2008 7:58 PM | Link to this
SO LONG, PETE. ENJOY RETIREMENT. WE ENJOYED THE MANY YEARS OF THE BRAVES AND THE ANOUNCERS. THANK YOU
By maurice
October 21, 2008 8:02 PM | Link to this
Skip was funny but Pete had a great sense of humor once on a Easter Sunday Don Sutton wondered aloud where were had the easter bonnetts gone and Pete said they are being worn by the Pittsburg Pirates. I will miss you very much.
By Canton BravesFan
October 21, 2008 8:03 PM | Link to this
Pete, you will definitely be missed. I will forever miss Pete and Skip TOGETHER!!! Thanks Mark for the article. GOOO BRAVOS in 2009!!!!!!
By Canton BravesFan
October 21, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this
KC AND YOUR IDIOT BAND! IF YOU DON’T LIKE BOBBY COX…..FIND ANOTHER TEAM. YOU SEEM LIKE A MELTS FAN ANYWAY. Oh btw, GOOOO RAYSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!! FILTHADELPHIA SUCKS!
By gba67
October 21, 2008 8:15 PM | Link to this
Enjoy the rest of your life Pete! You’ve earned it. Thanks for all the memories! Gerry- LaGrange, GA
By Bullwinkle
October 21, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this
So typical of Pete. Just do your job everyday and then hand it over without wanting any accolades. The most professional broadcaster ever. Thanks, Pete, for 33 great years. I was with you for every one of them.
By steve
October 21, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this
Skip, Pete, and Larry Munson all gone. Wow, thats a short amount of time for such legends to leave us wanting more.
By dougG
October 21, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this
Pete Van Wieren is hands down on the the best radio announcers ever in MLB! He knows the game and brings so much insight and expertise to his broadcasts. Definitely the best of the Braves crew. Good luck Pete.
By Dale
October 21, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this
Skip, Pete, Ernie Johnson, Marshall Mann, all great Braves broadcasters/announcers in their own right. I miss the good ole days at AFCS.
By Sage of Bluesland
October 21, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this
I grew up listening to Pete, Skip, and Ernie—and have been saddened with each’s departure from the booth, etc.
Anyone remember Dave O’ Brien in 1991? He was the clown before the current clown known as Joe Simpson…
Oh well, no more listening to the Braves on the radio…Smoltz and Glavine—and I might reconsider…Get rid of Joe, for Heaven’s sake—the true “master of the obvious”…
By NC Brave
October 21, 2008 8:59 PM | Link to this
So true Mark! I remember getting cable tv as a present for my tenth birthday! I chose cable tv over an Atari (which I later received for Christmas). One of the main reasons I wanted cable was to watch and listen to the Braves on TBS. As a radio professional today, some of my fondest memories were Pete and Skip calling the Braves. I think they were a reason I was bitten by the broadcast bug. Those games will never be replicated…ever. It was a time that will always be remembered.
Thanks Pete for a truly awesome job! I will never forget those moments as a boy watching the Braves and trying to mimick you and Skip in the booth. God Bless You!
By Jim
October 21, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this
Very classy comments about a very classy guy. Pete will hard to replace.
The voices of the “old” Braves are gone forever. Lets not forget.
By scott
October 21, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this
Enjoy your retirement Pete, you’ved earned it. You became a part of my family over the years. When listening to you on the radio I felt like I was at the ball park. What were the odds that Larry, Skip and Pete would all leave the airwaves this year? Sad day.
By Chip
October 21, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this
Thanks Mark-You hit this right on the head. Pete was possibly the last link I had to my childhood; This summer before Skip left us, I told my wife how when I turn on the Braves broadcasts on the radio, Everything feels like 1987 again and I could feel like I was at home. Now, there’s no link to The Murph, “I-285”, empty seats in Fulton County Stadium, and dozing off in the back seat of my dad’s car as I listened to Skip and Pete wrap up the game. Thanks for all the memories Pete, and god bless.
By Freddy B.
October 21, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this
I grew up a Braves fan and will always be a Braves fan but tonight my heart is filled with sorrow. I was 6 years old in 1977 the first time I watched a Braves game on channel 17. I now look back at the past 31 years of Pete’s broadcast and I realize that maybe I took it for granted when I would listen to Skip and Pete and think that they would live and broadcast together forever. They brought their game every night and delivered every night the Braves played. We will all miss you Pete. Enjoy your family and know that you will always be in the hearts of the true Braves fans.
By 31906jacket
October 21, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this
Pete, Skip, Ernie will always be Braves baseball to me. Thanks to each of them for all of the memories of 80’s Braves baseball. That was a tough time, but they loved the Braves which made me love the Braves. So long Professor!
By Drexel Gal
October 21, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this
Please remember, a lot of times, Mr, Van Wieren’s “numbers” were wrong, as were many of his anecdotes.
For instance, from 1980 until this year, he insisted in several stories that the San Francisco Giants won the 1962 World Series. In fact, they lost it on Willie McCovey’s hard line drive that was caught by Bobby Richardson. (The play was memorialized in a “Peanuts” cartoon the following Sunday.) Also, he often related stories about players that were supposed to reveal their ignorance of baseball history, that in fact, were not true. He once claimed that the porcine David Wells, upon becoming a Yankee, asked for uniform number 3, because “nobody was wearing it”. The famous number 3 —- Babe Ruth’s number —- had been retired for decades, but Wells was an expert on the Babe, and did NOT ask for his jersey number, but DID ask to wear one of Babe Ruth’s game-worn caps that he had bought from a collector. (The Yankees let him wear the cap for a few games.)
So, say goodbye to Pete, but, at the same time, welcome in someone new. The booth has already been tainted by the nepotistic appointment of Chip Caray to the broadcast team. Let’s hope for someone fresh … in many ways.
By dogwood
October 21, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this
Can you say “Diamond Notes” without Pete? Miss you Pete….
By Najeh Davenpoop
October 21, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this
I can’t even imagine what a Braves season without Skip and Pete is gonna be like. Seriously, I can’t, because they’ve been calling Braves games since I first started watching at age 4. I guess I’m about to find out. Can’t say that I’m looking forward to it.
Nice article.
By richbrave
October 21, 2008 10:06 PM | Link to this
Thank GOD I can type a fond “THANK YOU” to the old “PERFESSOR” instead of a posthumous eulogy as I did for SKIP. Long life PETE, and good health always. It truly is the bottom of the fifth.
By captain Midnight
October 21, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this
Great article. You might also add to your list who I miss Kim King the great Ga. Tech announcer. He got called away way too early.
By Jon
October 21, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this
I became a huge Braves fan as a kid living in North Dakota through WTBS. Skip, Pete, and Ernie Sr. were the best. I really miss them. Summers will never be the same without them.
By Brian Darby
October 21, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this
My favorite Pete and Skip story from just a few years ago, the Home Depot e-mail question from a fan was “How does Skip know where the fans who catch foul balls are from?”.
Skip gave his standard responses of body language etc. So there were a few foul balls and Skip was namimg the towns.
Pete then asks if he can try. So after a few pitches a foul ball goes into the club level. Pete without hesitation says…. Battle Creek Michigan…right?
Skip just about chokes and says, you aren’t even close!
Thanks professor.
By Tampaparrotthead
October 21, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
There’s always some member of the “cold water committee” to come along and throw cold water on an otherwise nice tribute to a good (not perfect) man.
Drexel Gal… do you notice anything at all that makes your post stand out from the rest? But then again, that was your intent after all.
Thanks Pete for so many years of doing a wonderful job under all circumstances… and sometimes those circumstances were not very favorable for a kind word to be said, but you always pulled it off in a kind way. We hope that you enjoy your retirement years and that they are long and prosperous. Enjoy your family and especially your grandkids, and do the things that make you happy. That will make all of us happy for you.
God bless… TPH
By Gene
October 21, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this
Pete is a great guy, and the Braves won’t be the same without him. Perhaps he will return from time to time like Ernie did on occasion. And Mark, thanks for reading these comments, including those that are sometimes unkind. It shows that you are listening to your audience.
By Gene
October 21, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this
Pete is a great guy, and the Braves won’t be the same without him. Perhaps he will return from time to time like Ernie did on occasion. And Mark, thanks for reading these comments, including those that are sometimes unkind. It shows that you are listening to your audience.
By David Jones
October 21, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this
Pete’s retiring and Tim McCarver is calling the World Series, where he will undoubtedly clip along at his usual rate of 3+ mispronunciations/statistical errors per inning. There’s no better example of how bad things have gotten in the broadcasting booth. Pete got it right — always.
By richbrave
October 21, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this
DREXEL GIRL:
Please try out for PHILADELPHIA TEXTILE’s team. You exhibition here with DREXEL is at an end.
By Steve
October 21, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this
Any Idea who will do radio next year? As much as I like Lemke, he was more of a pregame studio guy and not a color man. Could the Braves go to the minor leagues and get another Carey from Rome? What about Don Sutton?
By T
October 21, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this
I’m very saddened by the news of Pete’s retirement. It is selfish, because Pete (& Skip, but mostly Pete) is the reason I enjoy baseball. People who don’t like baseball or don’t understand it did not have a broadcast team with someone like Pete Van Wieren. Pete described the game, informed the listener, made you laugh in a thinking man’s way, set up Skip and most importantly explained the strategy’s and allowed me (the listener) to think right along with him in the booth. I hope the Braves pay tribute to Pete and put his name on the broadcast booth at the very least. While I loved Skip, you could not have skip without Pete. Pete set everyone up and did not command the spotlight. I hope Pete gets my message and knows that there are a lot of people who have him to thank for years of enjoyment watching & listening to the Braves. Thanks Pete!!!
By Tom
October 21, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this
Great column, Mark!
I will always remember many summers listening to Pete and Ernie and Skip with my dad, he loved them all and it was one of the few things we had in common and could enjoy together. Thanks for the memories, Pete!
That’s a great idea, to name the booth after Ernie, Pete, and Skip (Yea 3 names, but it can’t be worse that the horrible Hartsfield-Jackson-Atlanta Int’l Airport can it?)
By minerchord
October 22, 2008 12:26 AM | Link to this
Just like Ernie Harwell retired as a Detroit Tigers broadcaster but never left baseball I hope Pete does the same. Now he can do things on HIS schedule not the Braves. But like all who leave the game for whatever part they played…player,broadcaster,umpire….you never really leave the game
By An Old Fan
October 22, 2008 12:33 AM | Link to this
Pete Enjoy retirement—you earned it. We will miss you, but unfortunately every great thing must come to an end sometime. Retirement is not that bad. It is nice to know you don’t have to get up on someone elses schedule and be somewhere on their schedule. God Bless.
By RidgeDaddy
October 22, 2008 12:43 AM | Link to this
Wow! Losing Skip, Larry, & now Pete from the Atlanta radio airwaves within a matter of 3 months is quite a blow to us long-time fans in this town! But Pete, I tip my hat to you for getting out while you’re still at the top of your game. I love Munson as much as anyone, but it was obvious he had lost a step. And no one needs to point out how legends like Jack Buck & Harry Caray were only a shadow of their former self by the end of their careers. But Pete, you were one of the best in the game right up until your last broadcast!
I hope the Braves come up with a fitting and proper tribute for you next season. I hope you enjoy a long and happy retirement! And please drop by the booth some time to remind us of the good old days!
By Kyle
October 22, 2008 12:45 AM | Link to this
Another part of my youth is gone but at least by his choice. Skip was one of my favorites growing up and always enjoyed him but as I got older the smooth voice of Pete was always refreshing. Listening to baseball in Atlanta will never be the same again but at least we had quite a few years here that were golden. Thanks Pete.
By Canton BravesFan
October 22, 2008 1:11 AM | Link to this
Some of these comments make me smile and sad. I have to say thank you TED TURNER for the Braves and WTBS, The SuperStation. God knows I miss those days. When I see someone from Nebraska saying their tribute….I get so sad. People, do you not realize what Ted, Skip and Pete did for the Braves?!?!? How sad!
By Tim
October 22, 2008 1:51 AM | Link to this
I thought it was a nice touch when they named the broadcast booth after Skip but it just seems better named The Pete and Skip Boardcast Booth.
By scottbravesfan
October 22, 2008 3:01 AM | Link to this
I can’t believe Pete is retiring. I used to listen to the games on the radio even if they were on TV just to hear Pete call the game in recent years. I wish he was still on TV like he was in the TBS days.
Mark,
Have you heard anything about who will replace Pete on the radio?
By avery
October 22, 2008 4:52 AM | Link to this
I agree with the one who said it’s just another reminder that “I am not a kid anymore”…it was always nice to look forward to turning on a Braves game…whether it was in the living room or riding down the road in the car…listening to Skip,Pete and Ernie was as a great a pasttime as the game itself. I’m sad to say the Braves aren’t any fun any more…slowly the pieces have fallen away that made them great. When Bobby and Chipper go, that will be the end of the era…Enjoy your retirement, Pete…and your granddaughters!
By J. D. Ferrell
October 22, 2008 6:50 AM | Link to this
It’s a shame Pete has had to take a backseat to people like Chip Carey, who wants to change age old traditional baseball terminology to things like “rule book double. The TV moguls should be ashamed of themselves.
By T E Finley
October 22, 2008 8:00 AM | Link to this
Born in Milwaukee. Moved south in 1967. Skip and Pete will always be my favorites. Pete hope your joy in retirement matches the many memories you have given me
By Glenn
October 22, 2008 8:14 AM | Link to this
I tuned out the Braves after there run(14 years in first) and can not spend every day again watching the over paid under achieve! Now with two great announcers gone it will be easy to stay away!
By RGW
October 22, 2008 8:19 AM | Link to this
I remember going to see the “Braves Caravan” back in the 80’s when the Braves wore those horrible baby blue uniforms and were just as horrible on the field. Those were the days of Dale Murphy, Bruce Benedict, Glen Hubbard, Chris Chambliss, etc. and it was a thrill to see them and get all their autographs. The thrill of getting Pete and Skip’s autographs was just as big. They were the Atlanta Braves without the uniforms. Hope Pete enjoys retirement. He’s earned it. We will surely miss him though.
By thetumblingdice
October 22, 2008 8:19 AM | Link to this
Well said, Mark. School’s out, term’s over, and we’ll miss The Professor.
By T
October 22, 2008 8:19 AM | Link to this
Not that I was that young when I first heard Skip and Pete in the 1980s, but now that they’re gone from the airwaves, I can feel my youth a little farther behind me than before.
By Shelly
October 22, 2008 8:25 AM | Link to this
I sure will miss you Pete…it was always the coolest thing to know I could turn on my television almost any night for 6 months a year and hear you and Skip. I miss those days…I wish you all the best in your retirement.
By Shelly
October 22, 2008 8:27 AM | Link to this
I sure will miss you Pete…it was always the coolest thing to know I could turn on my television almost any night for 6 months a year and hear you and Skip. I miss those days…I wish you all the best in your retirement.
By Shelly
October 22, 2008 8:27 AM | Link to this
I sure will miss you Pete…it was always the coolest thing to know I could turn on my television almost any night for 6 months a year and hear you and Skip. I miss those days…I wish you all the best in your retirement.
By Jon Van Wieren
October 22, 2008 8:34 AM | Link to this
I am truly moved by all these great comments about my dad, as I’m sure he is too. He never wanted to be the story, just to tell the story in a way everyone listening could enjoy. I think he gets more enjoyment from knowing the fans appreciated his work than from just about anything else. Thanks for supporting him and the Braves.
By Mark Bradley
October 22, 2008 8:34 AM | Link to this
Thanks again, everybody.
No, I haven’t heard any informed word on replacements, though someone in the industry did make this suggestion: Move Boog Sciambi to radio. (And not, I should stipulate, as any kind of demotion.)
By Bill Klewitz, Albany, Georgia
October 22, 2008 8:40 AM | Link to this
Nice Mark, Very nice piece. Pete was the best, and as he said so many times; ” the final score, … and the Braves…?, So long from Atlanta.” Pete enjoy those enchanted princesses, if they’re like their granddaddy, they’ll be Queens.So long Pete…
By MAS83
October 22, 2008 8:47 AM | Link to this
Great now we’ll get more Lemke talking about the 1991 miracle season……….Mark let it go.
By mark
October 22, 2008 8:51 AM | Link to this
I started my “career” in 1969 listening to the Braves on Radio with Ernie and Milo then a few years later it was Ernie and Skip and seems Pete Joined Skip about the same time as a trio… and now they are all gone who will be the radio team this coming season.Thanks to the above mentioned for a lot of entertainment over so many years I will miss however I will still listen
By Kelley
October 22, 2008 9:01 AM | Link to this
I’m glad for Pete that he will get to hear all the nice things being said about him, unlike Skip who did not get to witness the outpouring of affection from fans telling him so long.
I said it when Skip left us, now it is officail, Braves baseball will never be the same w/o Skip and Pete. Here’s hoping Pete has many years to enjoy his family.
By J
October 22, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this
Great article and a well deserved retirement. It’s sad and I’m starting to feel old. I will miss Ernie, Pete and Skip forever the booth will never be the same. Maybe we can get Dale Murphy in there I’m dreading Bob Rathburn and now Domonique in the booth but go Hawks.
By Tampaparrotthead
October 22, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this
THIS IS JUST FOR YOU PETE…
The rocking chair is near
My youth has been spent
My get up and go
Has got up and went
But I really don’t mind
When I think with a grin
Of all the grand places
My get up has been
What a ride it has been for all of us long-time Braves fans. Milo, Munson, Ernie, Skip, Pete, Don, Joe, Boog… and it goes on from there. We’ve seen some dreary days of summer with all of these guys… but we’ve seen some wonderful days in the summer and fall too. The good days seem to make you forget the dreary days. And thru all of it, for the last 33 years at least, was Pete. A simple thank you seems so inadequate, but what can all of us everyday fans do but say THANKS!?!
And I want to add that all of these younger guys who have come along… (and some of them have gone somewhere else) these guys aren’t really that bad. It’s just that we’ve been watching on TV, and listening on the radio, and spoiled for so long by the very best. When you’ve listened to the best for over 40 years the ones to follow them seem so inadequate.
But if you’ll listen to some of the other teams announcers, you’ll see that the younger guys coming along aren’t all that bad.
Again, THANK YOU PETE FOR ALL THE YEARS!!
By Big Al
October 22, 2008 9:32 AM | Link to this
Mark, Great article and a fitting tribute. Pete, Ernie, and Skip were like like family during many, many summers going back to my youth. They helped me get through difficult times, listening to their broadcasts. I enjoyed Pete’s enthusiasm, attention to detail, even during times when the Braves weren’t so good. It was like sitting with family, listening to their call of the games. We saw Pete and the Lemmer during a Braves Caravan visit one summer in the eighties. Braves radio broadcasts will never be the same. Like others, I hope that Pete will be honored along with Skip. There were a matchless duo. Pete, enjoy your retirement- you certainly earned it. You will be missed!!
By Native Atlantan
October 22, 2008 9:39 AM | Link to this
Now the booth is officially silent. Having grown up in Atlanta literally since birth. (I am 36) Pete, Skip and Ernie are Braves Baseball. Players have come and gone over the years. Some good (Phil Neikro, Bob Horner, Andruw Jones), some not so good (Rafael Ramirez, Rick Camp), some eternal (Dale Murphy, John Smoltz, Hank Aaron, Chris Chambliss). The thread that held all those names together was Pete, Skip and Ernie.
Sadly we are in a new era of baseball. A time when taking my 5 year old to the park is not nearly a fun as it was when my dad took me when I was 5. at ime gone by when players played because they loved the game and loved the crowd. Sold now to a bevy of players who play for the next contract (A.K.A. Traitor Glavine who should be buried in a Mets Jersey.)
Gone are the days when the players made headlines for their play on the field and their good work off the field. Bought by the days when they we hear more about their off field antics and arrests than their pursuit of what used to be every childs dream.
With that said its probably a good thing the booth has gone silent. Todays baseball doesn’t deserve Skip, Ernie or Pete. IT deserves the absolutely mindless chatter and colossal screw ups of todays TBS blowing its playoff coverage. Blame routers all you want. The baseball gods are ticked at todays games. The Drsydales, the Matthews, the Spahns, and others are looking down and saying where have all the heros gone!
Well my hero’s, Pete, Skip and Ernie are gone but never forgotten. Imagine the games Skip must be calling in heaven these days!
By Tyler
October 22, 2008 9:39 AM | Link to this
What a legend. There will never be another Pete. Have you noticed that nowadays the booth is filled almost exclusively with former players, not professional broadcasters? Guys like Pete were fans first, and no player can ever understand the fan’s perspective the way someone like Pete could. I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to listen to Pete all these years. Skip was great, but Pete, well he is a legend.
By Tami
October 22, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this
Great tribute, Mark! I think we all knew that the last of the broadcasting greats would all eventually take their leave. But how many of us thought it would be within a few short, recent months? It causes our minds to spin a bit and wonder where the years went. It’s definitely the end of a great era.
One thing I’ll always appreciate is a short stretch back during the Braves’ 1992 season where Pete led the way in educating the new and/or returning Braves/MLB fans on all the basics, such as what a balk was, what the MLB terms meant, basic strategies on the base paths, how to keep a game scorecard, etc. Does anyone remember this besides me? I believe that’s what kept me a MLB fan, and not just a “jump-on-the-bandwagon-at-the-end-of-a-Braves’-season” fan. My family now asks me questions all throughout games. I owe it all to Professor Pete and whoever he was teamed with that particular day during the early-to-mid part of that season.
We’ll miss ya, Professor Pete. More than you’ll ever know. Have a great retirement, Sir!
By Green Tea
October 22, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this
First Don… Then Skip…. Now Pete???
What a kick in the balls for a braves fan.
Thanks for all the great work you’ve done Pete!
By Rad
October 22, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this
Boog does have a face (hair) for radio.
By willdave
October 22, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this
I will miss hearing the ultra-professional voice of Pete Van Wieren during any future Braves broadcasts. Nevertheless, I am happy that he is leaving the booth while he still has his health and can enjoy being with his family. Also, I’m extremely grateful that he is still around so that we can show him how much we treasure him. Thanks for all those great years of broadcasting, Professor. Enjoy your retirement.
By d-man
October 22, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this
Well, I guess this makes it official - I am now an old man. Hearing of Pete’s retirement after all these years is pretty sad for us fans, but totally understandable. Isn’t it funny how we always take for granted the people and things in our lives that give us small pleasures and fond memories. I have never been good with baseball trivia and stats, but I will always remember the “big picture” of countless hours watching and listening to the Braves with Pete and company. Even when the Braves weren’t very good, there was a certain comfort in knowing you could turn on the radio every night and hear the same announcers calling every pitch. Pete especially was a “pro” in every sense of the word - always prepared and enthusiastic about his job. Good luck Pete, you will be sorely missed by this “old man.”
By Paul
October 22, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this
Well stated and inspirational. Your comments were “right on.”
By Mark Bradley
October 22, 2008 11:07 AM | Link to this
I should note that Pete made it a point yesterday to thank the fans. “Nobody can do this job for any length of time without their support,” he said.
By d-man
October 22, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this
Mark, thanks for a very good article. In this day of selfish athletes and “celebrities” on the air constantly, it was refreshing to read of your eloquent tribute to a real “pro”. I look forward to your pieces, and even though I disagree on occasion, I “respectfully disagree”.
By DK
October 22, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this
We used to have voices we could identify as being a “voice of the Braves”. Not so much any more.
By Richard
October 22, 2008 11:43 AM | Link to this
Pete always played second fiddle to Skip and the other Braves announcers, but boy, did he play it well.
As an Atlanta native, I have been a Braves fan since early childhood, when the Atlanta Crackers were a Braves farm team, and we had the likes of Eddie Matthews playing with the Crackers before moving up to the big team.
Pete has been a classic. He provided all the statistics – both historic and current – that all true baseball fans crave. I doubt there is another announcer in all of major league baseball who has been any better source of statistical information, and on such an “at your fingertips” timely manner as him. He came prepared.
As others have said, he was the low key guy in the booth, but it never would have been the same without him. WE WILL MISS HIS CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE ATLANTA BRAVES BROADCASTS.
Enjoy your retirement, Pete. I hope you have MANY well deserved, enjoyable years ahead of you.
By Mark Bradley
October 22, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this
That’s fine, D-Man. “Respectful disagreement” isn’t just allowed — it’s encouraged.
By Scott
October 22, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this
What a great column! I am sad for my 2-year old son who will never get to listen to one of the great radio broadcast teams. I feel privileged to have listened to Pete and Skip and Ernie on my car radio at night as I worked, to have heard as a kid greats like Ernie Harwell and Jack Buck on the transistor radio hidden under my pillow at night. And on the positive side, I’m glad I only had to tolerate John Sterling one year down here. He is truly in the market that deserves him.
By Dr. R
October 22, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this
Nice column, Mark, thanks. I always thought Pete was underrated. Great baseball man with a wonderful laid-back style, and he always knows his stuff. These TV guys now are so hyped up I can’t listen to them long. Baseball is about taking it easy, having a gentle conversation. Pete’s the best and I’ll miss him a lot. And with no Skip, I’m not sure who I’ll be listening to or if I even want to.
By jed metzger
October 22, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this
Pete has been just the best listen, I live in Rochester, NY and it has been really hard with no tbs baseball, no pete and skip. They made baseball fun, as supreme evidence I offer the 1984 July 4th maraton game as the best example of what quality baseball on tv is. A tip of teh hat, thanks for all the years
By RC35
October 22, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this
As much as I enjoyed Skip, my favorite combo (a few years back) was Pete and Don Sutton. One had played the game, but the other knew all the historical anecdotes that connected baseball fans across the decades. We’re losing more than a great announcer and friend. We’re losing the recollection of what went before in baseball, leaving us with little more than overblown closeups of tense faces while no one explains the nuances of shading to right or left field. Thanks for the Diamond Notes and all the memories of players I never saw, Professor!
By Mark Bradley
October 22, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this
Pete and Don were terrific together. But that was what Pete did — he made every partner sound good.
Don and Skip together, however, were too much.
By Growler
October 22, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the tribute Mark.
It couldn’t have gone to a nicer, more deserving guy. Skip was the sizzle, but Pete was the steak. His knowledge was impeccable. His delivery was sorta like what you always hear about umpires — he was SO good, you often didn’t even notice! I’m glad he got national exposure back on the Baseball Network (he worked the 1995 Rockies-Braves divisional series, for those who recall),and I’m sorry he got shunted off TV in an unceremonious way. But that sort of opened the door for Pete and Skip to work together (long-time TBS viewers and radio listeners will recall that throughout most of the Braves run, they rarely worked together — usually being paired with either Sutton or Simpson or whoever else was commentating at the time). We’ll miss you Pete! (though I suspect he may yet make a few “guest” appearances next summer, the way Ernie Sr. sometimes does!)
By Casi
October 22, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this
Now there’s really no reason to listen to the Braves any more. We’ll miss you Pete, God Bless.
By Andrew
October 22, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this
Nice article, Mark. Being only 22 I’ve never known the Braves without Skip and Pete, and I certainly heard enough about the 70s/80s Braves from my Dad. Sounds like it must have been a good deal of fun back then.. before every word on air had to check out with the corporate censors and focus groups.
I’ll miss Pete as much as I’ll miss Skip, and if these guys don’t embody what it means to be a great voice of a team, I don’t know who does. These guys made it fun watch baseball, even when the game was boring or the score was out of hand — and you usually learned something along the way too. Hats off to you, Professor, you were a big part of my growing up with the Braves and you certainly wont be forgotten.
By Martha
October 22, 2008 5:57 PM | Link to this
Thanks to Mark for a generous and thoughtful article about one of the great radio ambassadors of the game. I can just imagine Pete doing the research and giving the stats on princess movies! Enjoy every moment of your new adventure, and thanks for the memories, Pete.
By SickandTired
October 22, 2008 6:25 PM | Link to this
One last try at getting this thru. Anyone of the families of these fine men, Pete, Skip, Ernie that reads please know that my complete gratitude for every game they ever did comes through. At close to 57 I have heard a lot of the games over the years and watched on TBS as well. The thing I am most grateful for is the fact that my mother in her later years when she died in 1984 listened to every game. Not just some but every game on her radio in her bedroom where she was confined with rheumatoid arthritis and every day when I’d come by to bring her food we’d talk about the games and how much she’d enjoyed hearing the guys on the radio. She was in love with the three of them and they brought joy to her life when not much was cheerful. Thanks again.
By old fart
October 22, 2008 7:25 PM | Link to this
Pete was always that kind, wise uncle, with the soothing voice, who never sought or brought attention to himself. He was at his radio best on hot Sunday afternoons while I sat sippin an iced sour mash and basting the pork shoulder. I will miss him.
By the way, Pete, now that you’ve got more time on your hands … how about applying a little “Perfesser” expertise at your barbeque joint at the Ted?
Enjoy your retirement, old friend. You deserve it.
By E "Buzz" Miller
October 22, 2008 7:34 PM | Link to this
I too, share all of these sentiments, I grew up in South GA listining to Braves broadcasts since the early 70’s with my grandfather…those were our closest moments together as he would give me further details of what the announcers were talking about( He was a former minor leaguer himself)..so, I have many fond memories of the comforting voice of Pete and the rest of the crew keeping us up to date on the “next wave” of Braves talent coming down the pike as I prayed the team would be better “next year”. Pete has always been the background noise of my life and I will miss him dearly. Enjoy your retirement SIR!
By falcon
October 22, 2008 7:56 PM | Link to this
Pete…it sounds like we are clearly not ready for you to retire. Will you please reconsider? Thanks for all the memories. You deserve all the kudos you are getting on this blog. A fitting send off for one of the absolute best ever at calling a baseball game.
By richbrave
October 22, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this
STEVE:
PLEASE let it be SUTTON.!!!! OMG. I can hear it now CHIP and DON. What a duo.
By Brian
October 22, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this
Pete didn’t have the great catch phrases or the loud voice for big calls. But he was a true pro. Im 16 years old and for the last eight years Ive listened to Skip and Pete every night. They were truely my best friends. Whether the Braves were winning or losing, they were always there. When I look back on my childhood years from now, my best memories are going to be watching the braves, and every night I had the pleasure of watching them with my best friends, Skip Caray and Pete Van Wieren. Thanks for the memories!
By Brian
October 22, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this
Pete didn’t have the great catch phrases or the loud voice for big calls. But he was a true pro. Im 16 years old and for the last eight years Ive listened to Skip and Pete every night. They were truely my best friends. Whether the Braves were winning or losing, they were always there. When I look back on my childhood years from now, my best memories are going to be watching the braves, and every night I had the pleasure of watching them with my best friends, Skip Caray and Pete Van Wieren. Thanks for the memories!
By Brian Wright
October 22, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this
Pete didn’t have the great catch phrases or the loud voice for big calls. But he was a true pro. Im 16 years old and for the last eight years Ive listened to Skip and Pete every night. They were truely my best friends. Whether the Braves were winning or losing, they were always there. When I look back on my childhood years from now, my best memories are going to be watching the braves, and every night I had the pleasure of watching them with my best friends, Skip Caray and Pete Van Wieren. Thanks for the memories!
By thisyearthecrackersnext yearthebraves
October 23, 2008 12:58 AM | Link to this
Thanks Pete!!! You and Vin Scully are the all time best in my book! Sure wish I had one of your observations in the front of my mind right now to throw out to everyone????? Oh well, my mind does not always work as well as yours always seemed to. We will all certainly miss the ease and quality of delivery that was part of the Pete Van Wieren calling of Braves games.
Oh and now onto other important matters….Pete is there anyway you could take a year off and then come back for a few more years???? I know a whole bunch of folks who could really appreciate that.
If not thanks again and for all the Diamond Notes! I am really hoping someone will pickup the ball on those next year to carry on that great part of the Braves radio broadcasts!
By Ken Stallings
October 23, 2008 4:38 AM | Link to this
It’s all gone now. Nothing more. TBS, Braves baseball, Skip, Pete, Ernie … all gone. For so many precious years for at least six months, nearly every single day, there was something to watch on television. You could grow up and grow old watching Braves baseball anywhere in America.
The Braves were the actual America’s Team. No cheap slogan, statement of fact years before it became a slogan. The Yankees and Cowboys pretended to be. The Braves were.
Ernie retired years ago. Skip has passed away. Pete is now retired. The era is over never to be seen again. Too much competition for broadcasting baseball games. We will never see one channel, one station, broadcast every game of an entire season, much less of decades’ of seasons!
The continuity was glorious. The team became an extension of your own family, and the announcers were like favorite uncles who came over to visit a few hours each day. Filled with stories, humor, wisdom all wrapped up in a sport as entertaining as anything else a young man could do on a summer’s night or day.
To say I will miss them is inadequate. It’s more like a part of my life has passed away, something fond and cherished, memories now of a bygone era we wish could happen again.
By Barry McClure
October 23, 2008 7:25 AM | Link to this
Pete & Skip. Skip & Pete. For 3/4 of my life. For as long as I can really remember. Thank you. You were a close friend that I never met. I hope you have a long and enjoyable career in retirement. And please do as Ernie did…come back and visit. Now, I just may have to grow up.
By John
October 27, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this
Pete’s retirement and Skip’s passing correspond to the end of the era of pitching and victories for the Braves. The end is now. Who will follow on the mound and in the booth? With a rebuilding team it is very important that the right decisions be made on the broadcasting front. Chip Carey is a good start. John Sciambi and Joe Simpson are so annoying and uninformative and uncritical that they will not be able to generate the enthusiasm and interest that the new pitching staff will need. Does anyone have information, insght or ideas?.Pete and Skip will surely be missed.
By MEB
October 29, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this
Thank you Pete! Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the many, many hours of wonderful memories. I shook your hand many times at Fulton County and Turner Field. Now I look forward to shaking your hand again at the ballpark to congratulate you on a wonderful career. God Bless!
By bruce
October 30, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this
Classy article about a classy man. Nice job by both. Still wish Pete had done a victory lap.
By tom
November 2, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this
what a great article—— plenty of memories is all we have now—- excellent artlicle mark
By Will
November 2, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this
Wow, what memories. I was kid growing up in Jackson GA and later in Atlanta watching Braves broadcast on a 13” Black and white TV on TBS 17. Yes, I remember “One Crazy Summer”, the Eastern Airline comercials, the old Braves theme music (wish I had a recording of that). Yes I remember Pete, Skip and Ernie and Daryle Chaney (that goes way back), Hubbard and Claudel Washington. It’s quite sad when you look back at childhood innocents. Good luck Mr Van Wieren, you’ll be missed.
By southbeachdietfreak
November 14, 2008 9:45 AM | Link to this
Best announcing combo ever! Pete will be sorely missed. First watched him, Skip, Ernie in the late ’70s as a young child. Made even the worst Braves games watchbable. Best of luck in whatever you do, Pete!