On This Date: August 16, 2011 – Phillies Unveil Statue of Iconic Broadcaster Harry Kalas, Cementing His Legacy in the Heart of Citizens Bank Park
On August 16, 2011, the Philadelphia Phillies paid tribute to one of the most beloved figures in franchise history — Hall of Fame broadcaster Harry Kalas — by unveiling a life-sized bronze statue in his honor. The ceremony, held in the left field concourse of Citizens Bank Park, was attended by thousands of fans and featured two of the most iconic players in Phillies history: Hall of Fame pitcher Steve Carlton and longtime shortstop Jimmy Rollins. The statue, a fitting tribute to the voice that became synonymous with Phillies baseball, captures Kalas in his familiar pose — microphone in hand, mid-call, forever connected to the game he loved.
Kalas, who passed away suddenly in April 2009, was more than just a broadcaster. For nearly four decades, his voice brought Phillies baseball to life for millions of fans across generations. From the unforgettable “Outta here!” home run calls to his deeply emotional World Series clincher in 2008, Kalas provided a sense of continuity, comfort, and connection to the team. His presence in the broadcast booth turned ordinary games into memorable experiences, and his passion for the sport was evident in every word he spoke.
The statue was sculpted by Lawrence Nowlan, an accomplished artist who had also created likenesses of other Philadelphia sports legends. With incredible detail and a lifelike expression, the piece manages to convey both Kalas’s professionalism and his warmth. Set in the heart of the stadium, the statue has since become a central photo destination for fans of all ages — a place to stop, smile, and remember the man whose voice became part of the soundtrack of Philadelphia summers.
The dedication ceremony was both celebratory and emotional. Steve Carlton, whose career included many of Kalas’s most memorable calls, spoke briefly, his words honoring the enduring bond between players and broadcasters. Jimmy Rollins, representing the modern era of Phillies baseball, reflected on what it meant to hear Kalas announce his name during games. Together, they helped bridge generations of Phillies history, highlighting just how important Kalas was — not just to the team, but to the city itself.
Since its installation, the Harry Kalas statue has grown into a beloved part of the Citizens Bank Park experience. Fans routinely take photos beside it, some placing flowers, hats, or even small radios tuned to the game at its base. It has become a place of tribute — not of mourning, but of appreciation for the joy and spirit Kalas brought to the game.
A broadcaster’s voice can fade after their final call, but Harry Kalas’s voice lives on — in recordings, in memories, and now, in bronze. On this date, the Phillies ensured that his legacy would continue to resonate in the very ballpark where his voice once echoed loudest.