Philadelphia's Legendary Voice

There are few things more thrilling to a Philadelphia Phillies fan than hearing play-by-play announcer Harry Kalas exclaim "This ball is outta here!" as a home run sails over the outfield wall. A half-hour profile of Kalas is the first in a new WHYY series that celebrates some of this region's Hometown Legends and explores how living in the Delaware Valley has impacted their lives and the ways they have profoundly affected the lives of local residents.

Kalas, who has broadcast seven playoffs and three World Series since he became the voice of the Phillies in 1971, was recently honored by the National Baseball Hall of Fame with its 2002 Ford C. Frick Award. Here, the veteran sportscaster, who also narrates HBO's Inside the NFL, discusses how he got his start in broadcasting, reminisces about his close friendship with late Phillies outfielder Richie "Whitey" Ashburn -- Kalas' partner in the broadcast booth for 27 years -- and shares some of the most memorable moments of his illustrious career, including his call of Mike Schmidt's 500th home run.

The special also features video highlights from some unforgettable Phillies' games and interviews with colleagues Larry Anderson and Scott Graham, current Phillies chairman Bill Giles -- who played a pivotal role in bringing Kalas on board -- and Ashburn's son John. Kalas also hints at his plans for the future, when he makes the decision to hang up his headphones. -- Mary Eileen O'Connor

Wednesday, July 14 at 9 p.m.

Online Extra: Visit the National Baseball Hall of Fame Web site to learn more about the history of one of America's favorite pastimes and find out which players will be inducted at this year's ceremony in Cooperstown, New York.