Earlier today, I published a recap of Game 7 of the 1986 World Series, which took place 26 years ago today. In the recap, I included Bob Murphy's famous "the dream has come true" call from Jesse Orosco's final pitch of the game. Well, Bob Murphy's long-time partner in the broadcast booth is also celebrating a special anniversary today - the 90th anniversary of his birth.
Ralph Kiner (born October 27, 1922) has been broadcasting Mets games since their inaugural season in 1962. As he has gotten older, he has only been able to make it to the booth for a few select games per season. But when he does, he always has tremendous stories to share with the viewing audience.
One particular story involves a famous malapropism. You see, in addition to achieving fame as a Hall of Fame player and dater of Hollywood stars, Kiner was also known for his "fun with words" in the broadcast booth. Over the years, the Mets legend has uttered gems like "solo homers usually come with no one on base" and "if Casey Stengel were alive today, he'd be spinning in his grave". But perhaps his most famous line came on a day reserved for celebrating dads, when Kiner shared this special greeting with his television viewers:
"It's Father's Day today, so to all you fathers out there, happy birthday!"
Ralph Kiner is celebrating his 90th birthday today. He has outlived broadcast partners Lindsey Nelson and Bob Murphy to become the sole member of the Mets' original broadcast team who is still with us. He has also been one of the most gracious and most recognizable persons associated with the Mets in their 50 years of existence.
So on this special day, I thought it would be appropriate to offer a special birthday greeting to a man all Mets fans grew up with. Here's to you, Ralph. Since it's your birthday today, I'd like to wish you a happy Father's Day!
What, did you think I was going to say something else?
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