One on one with … Ernie Harwell

Sporting News, The, July 29, 2002 by Reid Creager

Tigers broadcaster Ernie Harwell got his start by writing to THE SPORTING NEWS in 1934, applying to be the magazine's Atlanta correspondent. "I even signed it W. Ernest Harwell to make it sound more impressive," Harwell, 84, says. That must have turned the trick. The Hall of Famer will retire after this season, his 55th as a major league broadcaster and 42nd with Detroit. (He also worked for the Dodgers, Giants and Orioles.) Rarely has a correspondent gig launched such a productive career.

THE SPORTING NEWS: Do you still play cards with the players like in the old days?

Harwell: Oh, it's been many years, I'd say. When I first started, train travel was more conducive to a game because of the seating. When I first went to Brooklyn, we'd play a lot of hearts. Jackie Robinson was in some of the games, Pee Wee Reese, Campy (Roy Campanella), Gil Hodges. The Giants were big on blackjack: Eddie Stanky, Monte Irvin, Al Dark. And I played a lot of hearts with Johnny Pesky at Baltimore.

TSN; Baseball has changed a lot in your career. Has it been for the better?.

EH: The new stadiums have been a big plus. They're more fan-friendly, a little smaller, a little retro. Also, the improvement in equipment has been a big help to the players.

TSN: What has been the worst change?

EH: The way managers handle their pitchers now. Starters aren't expected to finish the game.

TSN: Is it harder to broadcast games for a losing team?

EH: It's a little more difficult, but I enjoy it anyway. It's true that when a team is winning, there's more interest and excitement. But I look at each game as a challenge, and every once in a while two bad teams can play a great game.

TSN: Who's the best player you ever saw?

EH: Willie Mays, because he did everything well and with such a flair. I saw his debut at Shibe Park in Philadelphia. As you know, he got off to a horrible start, but I think he found his way out of it.

TSN: What was the best team?

EH: The '61 Yankees, though remember the Tigers gave them quite a run. They were right in it 'til the Yanks swept them Labor Day weekend.

TSN: Who was the best interview?

EH: I'd have to soy George Brett. He was so articulate, a good player, personable. But I could name eight or 10 who were favorites. I've been lucky that way.

TSN: How will you spend your summer evenings after you retire?

EH: I'll enjoy spending more time with my wife and having more time to myself. But baseball has been such a big part of my life that I won't be a stranger at the ballpark. You won't be able to get rid of me that easily.