Breaking News: Lanny Frattare retires
Pittsburgh:After 33 years of announcing Pirate games, Lanny Frattare is giving up his spot on the air. 33 years is longer than any other announcer in the 122-year history of the Pirates - even longer than the famed Bob Prince. Frattare said that the decision to retire is something he's talked about for a long time, but didn't actually make the decision until after the final road trip. "It was a difficult and emotional decision, but in the end, I decided it was time," he said.
The Pirates plan to have an on-field ceremony to honor Frattare in 2009, but the details have yet to be ironed out. While no replacement has been named, the remainder of the broadcast team: Greg Brown, Bob Walk, Steve Blass and John Wehner will return for the 2009 season.
Readers’ Forum
While not being a regular listener of the Pirates, I will miss the familiar voice when I turn on a game while traveling in my car. Over the years he was a constant, in an ever changing team of broadcasters, and I liked that very much. He will be missed.
Lou - October 01, 2008 at 8:57 pm
I have never been a fan of Mr. Frattare or any of the Pirates broadcasters for that matter. They are all boring and add no excitement to their broadcasts. I suppose they really had nothing to work with since the Pirates are and have been such losers for years. Baseball in Pittsburgh was great when we had talents such as Bob Prince and Nelly King. The Pirates made a big mistake when they got rid of the Gunner. May he rest in peace.
Princefan - October 03, 2008 at 09:18 am