BETH HARRIS
AP Sports Writer
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Hall of Fame broadcaster Vin Scully received the Commissioner’s Historic Achievement Award for his record 65 years of calling Los Angeles Dodgers games on Friday.
Retiring Commissioner Bud Selig gave Scully the gold trophy in a small presentation inside Dodger Stadium. Scully is only the second non-player to be recognized, joining Rachel Robinson, who was honored in 2007 for promoting the legacy of her husband, former Dodger Jackie Robinson.
“Wow, I’m deeply touched,” Scully said quietly.
He had to be summoned from a few rows back to join Selig in the front of the room as others explained Scully prefers being in the background.
“I would consider it a personal favor,” the commissioner said.
Sitting next to Selig, Scully looked down as the commissioner cited the 86-year-old broadcaster’s career achievements. Scully is the 14th recipient of the award, created in 1998 to recognize accomplishments and contributions of historical significance.
“There is an incredibly strong bond between baseball fans and their broadcasters,” Selig said, appearing moved by being in Scully’s presence.
“In my judgment there’s never been anyone better behind a microphone,” said Selig, noting that in following games around the majors on a nightly basis he always enjoys hearing Scully’s call.
“Just hearing your voice makes me feel better,” Selig told him.
Scully’s 65 years with the Dodgers is the longest of any sports broadcaster with one team.
He joined the Brooklyn Dodgers’ broadcast team in 1950, a year removed from graduating from Fordham University, where he played baseball.
In 1953, the 25-year-old Scully became the youngest person ever to broadcast a World Series game. Two years later, he was behind the microphone for Brooklyn’s first and only World Series title. He called Don Larsen’s perfect game when the Yankees beat the Dodgers in Game 5 of the World Series on Oct. 8, 1956.
Scully recently said he plans to return to the booth next season.
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