Bill Plaschke of the LA Times brings us the news that Dodgers' announcer Vin Scully will likely retire after next season:
Scully, 81, said if he continues to feel well he will work past his landmark year and retire after the 2010 season.
"God willing, I will probably come back for one more year," Scully said in a phone interview. "At this moment, my health is excellent, and I'm leaning toward one more year."
And then retire?
"Yes, that makes sense," he said.
Scully has been a part of every Dodger fan's life, perhaps the man more associated with the franchise than any other. Scully's pending retirement has been something all Dodger fans have had in the back of their mind for some time. After all, this is his 60th season behind the microphone. However, knowing the "when" of Scully's retirement is a positive thing.
This gives the Dodgers and their many fans the chance to honor Scully, to let him bask in the ovations he so richly deserves. The man is so humble that he probably won't want to make a big deal out of his retirement. But it is a big deal, to all of us who used to hold radios to our ears when we were supposed to be sleeping, to all of us who have had an extra family member in Vin Scully.
I have had the great pleasure to cover the Dodgers this season from the press box. The Vin Scully Press Box. No thrill has been bigger than being able to be near Vin. Hearing the deep timbre of his voice in close range sends chills down my spine. I have passed him in the dining room a few times, and each time he acts as though its his pleasure to see me.
I hope I can be there to give Vin his proper send-off next season. I'm certain there will be tears in my eyes, but they will be tears of joy. For all the joy Mr. Scully has brought into my life all these years. But, why wait until next year? Show Vin your support now. Write him a letter; tell him what he has meant to you. Cherish every remaining moment you will have with a broadcasting legend.
After all, as Vin likes to say, "if you want to make God smile, tell him your plans."
Do you have a favorite Vin Scully moment? Please let us know in the comments below.