"Good afternoon everyone and welcome to Tiger baseball...I'm George Kell along with Al Kaline on a beautiful day for baseball. Not a cloud in the sky!"

That is how I recall his welcome to for the most part of the Tigers broadcasts on the televised games. With that classic southern accent.

Although his playing days were before my time, I never tire of hearing him tell how he edged out the great Ted Williams for the 1949 Batting Title.

He pretty much had it wrapped up after getting three hits for the day and if he sat out his last at bat, the crown would be his.

Not wanting to "back in" as the champion he insisted on batting with one out in the ninth and a runner on first. The batter ahead of him grounded into a double play and the Title was his.

Here are some of my favorite calls he had during the broadcasts...

                                              "He's getting waved in!"

                            "He hit it a mile,but straight to center field!"

                                 "Good shot from our centerfield camera..." 

                       "While there's a break in the action,we'll pause for these messages."

                                         "Could be the ball game...It is."

I really enjoy Rod and Mario's broadcasts, don't get me wrong. They make a great team. George Kell was I'm sure an influence on many broadcasters.