Legendary voice of the Seattle Mariners, broadcasting over 5,000 games with iconic calls like "Get out the rye bread and the mustard!"
Dave Niehaus, the legendary American sportscaster, will forever be remembered as the iconic voice of the Seattle Mariners, a team he passionately broadcast for over three decades. With his distinctive baritone voice and signature calls, Niehaus brought the game to life for generations of Mariners fans, earning him the reputation as one of the greatest sportscasters in history.
Born on February 19, 1935, in Princeton, Indiana, Niehaus graduated from Indiana University in 1957 and began his broadcasting career with Armed Forces Radio after serving in the military. His big break came in 1969 when he partnered with Dick Enberg on the broadcast team of the California Angels.
In the 1970s, Niehaus expanded his portfolio, broadcasting for the Los Angeles Rams of the NFL and the UCLA Bruins football and basketball teams. However, it was his move to Seattle in 1977 that would cement his legacy.
In 1977, Niehaus was handpicked by Danny Kaye, part-owner of the Seattle Mariners, to become the franchise's radio voice. Despite the team's struggles on the field, Niehaus's talent and charisma quickly gained recognition, making him an instant favorite among Mariners fans.
Throughout his tenure, Niehaus's passion and energy were contagious, drawing fans to the ballpark and tuning in to their radios. He was twice named Washington Sportscaster of the Year, and his iconic calls, such as "Get out the rye bread and the mustard" and "A little fly ball," became ingrained in Seattle sports culture.
In 2000, Niehaus became the second person to be inducted into the Mariners Hall of Fame. Eight years later, he was awarded the Ford C. Frick Award, the highest honor for American baseball broadcasters, by the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
Niehaus's impact extended beyond the broadcast booth. He was a beloved figure in the Seattle community, and his warmth and kindness inspired countless fans. In 1999, the Mariners honored him by having him throw out the ceremonial first pitch at the opening of Safeco Field.
Niehaus's legacy continued to grow, even in the world of video games. In 1999, he was featured as an announcer in the Nintendo 64 game Ken Griffey Jr.'s Slugfest.
Dave Niehaus's legacy is a testament to the power of sports broadcasting. He transcended the game, becoming an iconic figure in Seattle sports history. His passion, energy, and authenticity inspired generations of fans, making him an integral part of the Mariners' identity.
Today, Niehaus's impact is still felt, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of broadcasters, sports enthusiasts, and Seattleites alike.
"I'm not just a broadcaster, I'm a fan. I'm a fan of the game, and I'm a fan of the Mariners."
— Dave Niehaus
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