Shenk: Remembering Tim McCarver, they came to praise him
The 2012 Ford C. Frick award winner Tim McCarver on stage in Cooperstown along with Hall of Famer Joe Morgan and CEO Jeff Idelson.
February 21, 2023
Remembering Tim McCarver
By Larry (Baron) Shenk
Philadelphia Phillies
“Tim McCarver’s immense impact spanned generations, from a 21-year career on the field to the broadcast booth where his insights and passion for the game made him one of its most beloved voices – and the 2012 Ford C. Frick award winner for broadcasting excellence. Tim enjoyed celebrating the game, and he was a consistent presence in Cooperstown during our annual Induction Weekend events. On behalf of the Hall of Fame members and all of us in Cooperstown, we share our heartfelt condolences with his family and friends, and with all of the fans who he entertained and informed for six decades.” _ Jane Forbes Clark, Chairman of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum.
“The Phillies are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Tim McCarver and extend our most heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, former teammates and colleagues. Tim joined the Phillies at the height of his career and returned for his final six seasons as a veteran leader, helping the club to three straight NLCS appearances and, ultimately, their first-ever World Series title. Following his playing career, fans throughout the world, including here in Philadelphia, listened to him describe their favorite team’s most iconic moments with professionalism and class. For Tim’s leadership, friendship and voice, the Phillies are forever grateful.” _ John Middleton, managing partner and chief executive officer, Phillies.
“Behind every successful pitcher there has to be a very smart catcher, and Tim McCarver is that man. Timmy forced me pitch inside. Early in my career I was reluctant to pitch inside. Timmy had a way to remedy this. He used to set-up behind the hitter. There was just the umpire there; I couldn’t see him (McCarver), so I was forced to pitch inside.” _ Steve Carlton’s Hall of Fame induction speech.
“The first locker I ever visited, in the first Phillies spring training I ever covered, was Tim McCarver’s locker. It didn’t take long to know I’d made the right choice. In the span of a 10-minute conversation, he made me laugh, he made me think and he made me feel welcome. For all the years since, every conversation with Tim went just like that. He was a really good ball player. He was one of the greatest baseball broadcasters who ever lived. But above all, he was one of the most special people I've run across in my time covering baseball. So, through the sadness, I'll try to remember all the smiles he brought to our lives.” _ Jayson Stark, former Philadelphia scribe, The Athletic, MLB Network.
“Timmy truly was a man for all seasons. He will rightly be remembered as a great major league player and broadcaster. However, he also was a voracious reader, Civil War and World War 2 history buff, innately curious and always loved a good argument. He was the John Maddon of baseball. The man revolutionized the way analysts broadcast a ball game. And on a personal note, he was a great friend who will be missed.” _ Broadcaster Chris Wheeler.
“Tim was a special person and a very savvy ball player who Steve Carlton admired greatly. Tim was really a fun person to be around which made his broadcasting career so successful.” _ Former Phillies president Bill Giles.
“I am thankful we got see Timmy last year for alumni weekend. He was such a huge part of Phillies history but for my generation he was the national voice of our great game. I was fortunate to work two games with him, including the 2009 clinching game and he was not only sharp but made sure he was informed and up to date on the game all the time. What a cherished man.” _ Philadelphia broadcaster Tom McCarthy.
“My friend and Phillies teammate has passed. What a joy to be around and what a fabulous career as a player and broadcaster. He always brought a smile to my face.” _ Former Phillie and Expo Tommy Hutton.
“Tim taught me how to play the game the right way. No shortcuts, just hard work and determination. A great teammate for our young team in Philly but more importantly he was my friend.” _ Ex Phillies SS Larry Bowa.
“When Tim rejoined the Phillies in 1975, he soon became Steve Carlton’s personal catcher. The two of them watched out for me and protected me as a young player. They were always there for me. Tim was a fierce competitor who did not like to lose. He caught me for a couple of my starts and he made me pitch inside. I learned early not to shake him off either. He always reminded me that we had three and four-hit shutouts when he was my catcher. Tim did not like catching me in the bullpen when I was practicing my curve ball. Usually in spring training. I would bounce them and beat him up pretty good and he would scream at me. He and I stayed in touch to his last day. Tim showed me so much love and support. I’m forever grateful for fabulous memories of a great man and a very special friend,” _ Former Phillies RHP Larry Christenson.
“Sad to hear of the passing of Tim McCarver. I always enjoyed our chats on the Phillies pre-game shows. His love for the game was what stood out. Sixty years in baseball as an outstanding player and Hall of Fame broadcaster. Truly a baseball life’” _ Jim Jackson.
“Tim was a competitor who was passionate about the game and life. Conversations were deeply rooted and sometimes heated. But for me his trademark was a tremendous sense of humor. The laughter we shared is something I’ll always remember.” _ Larry Shenk.