R.I.P. Scooter

When I was a little kid of 5 or 6, I remember watching Yankees games with my dad on Channel 11 (WPIX). Phil Rizutto was the voice of the Yankees at the time. Sometime my dad would get a little annoyed at Scooter because he would spent more time talking about canolis that he would talking about the game. But I always loved Scooters enthusiasm and love for the game. Sure he would get confused sometimes, but he was a simple man, from a much simpler time. It's been over 10 years since Phil announced for the Yankees, but it was fun seeing him at Old Timers Day and other events at Yankees stadium.

Rizzuto was a member of 7 World Champion teams. I believe he was also part of the Yankees dynasty that won 5 straight World Series during the 1950's. He played well before my time, so I know him more for his announcing. But the footage I've seen of him was pretty amazing. He was master of the lost skill of bunting, and I always admired his level of success despite his small stature.

With the passing of Phil, there aren't many legendary Yankees left. Mantle, Maris, Gherig Dimagio and Ruth have long been gone. Berra and Whitey Ford are probably the only two remaining Yankees greats from the 40's and 50's who are left. Reggie Jackson, Yogi Berra, Don Mattingly, Whitey Ford and Ron Guidry are the only players who have retired numbers in monument part that are still with us.

If you don't know who Phil "Scooter" Rizutto is, give the song Paradise by the Dashboard Lights a listen. He's the announced talking during the song.

Holy Cow!!!

R.I.P. Scooter!