Former MLB player and longtime White Sox broadcaster known for his colorful commentary and iconic phrases like "You can put it on the board, YES!"
Kenneth Smith Harrelson, affectionately known as "The Hawk," is a legendary American former professional baseball player and television announcer. With a storied career spanning over four decades, Harrelson is renowned for his iconic voice, distinctive profile, and unparalleled expertise in the broadcast booth.
Born on September 4, 1941, in Woodruff, South Carolina, Harrelson's family relocated to Savannah, Georgia, when he was in the fifth grade. The young Harrelson was an athletic prodigy, excelling in basketball, golf, football, and baseball at Benedictine Military School in Savannah.
Harrelson's love for baseball eventually prevailed, and he went on to play for four teams in the Major League Baseball (MLB) from 1963 to 1971: the Kansas City Athletics, Washington Senators, Boston Red Sox, and Cleveland Indians. During his nine-season career, Harrelson boasted a respectable .239 batting average, 131 home runs, and 421 runs batted in (RBIs) in 900 games.
Following his playing career, Harrelson transitioned to the broadcast booth, becoming one of the most beloved and respected play-by-play announcers in baseball history. He spent 33 years as the voice of the Chicago White Sox, entertaining and educating fans with his signature style and unwavering passion for the game.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to baseball broadcasting, Harrelson was named the 2020 recipient of the prestigious Ford C. Frick Award, presented annually by the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
Throughout his career, Harrelson has been an ardent advocate for the importance of baseball in American culture. He believes that the game has the power to unite people, foster community, and provide a platform for social commentary.
Harrelson's broadcasting style, which blended humor, storytelling, and expertise, has inspired a generation of sports announcers and enthusiasts alike. His legacy extends beyond the baseball diamond, influencing the way we experience and engage with sports media.
Kenneth Smith Harrelson's remarkable journey, marked by perseverance, passion, and dedication, has left an indelible mark on the world of baseball and broadcasting. As "The Hawk," he continues to soar, inspiring future generations of athletes, announcers, and fans to follow in his footsteps.
"Baseball is a game of inches, but it's also a game of hearts and minds. That's what makes it so special." - Ken Harrelson
90 Years Old
Legendary baseball player and trailblazing manager who broke racial barriers and won numerous accolades, including MVP and Manager of the Year awards.
90 Years Old
A talented shortstop who played for the New York Yankees and later became a respected sportscaster, known for his insightful commentary and charismatic on-air presence.
92 Years Old
A legendary baseball player turned sportscaster and actor, known for his humorous commentary and iconic roles in TV and film, including the sitcom "Mr. Belvedere" and the movie "Major League".
98 Years Old
Legendary voice of baseball, broadcasting iconic games and moments for over 60 years, with a warm, storytelling style that made fans feel like they were part of the game.
Born in 1926
A charismatic baseball player turned sportscaster, known for his humorous commentary and storytelling on TV broadcasts, entertaining millions with his folksy style.
75 Years Old
A Hall of Fame pitcher and broadcaster, known for his curveball and colorful commentary.
71 Years Old
Hall of Fame pitcher and broadcaster known for his dominant closer career and iconic mustache. He's a beloved voice in baseball, sharing insights and humor with fans.
