Al Kaline died. Dammit. Roger Angell wrote a short story called "Three for the Tigers" that is as beautiful as any baseball prose I've ever read. I knew Kaline as part of the WDIV tandem that broadcast Tigers games, the other half being George Kell. 1/10

Both men owned delightful accents, Kell had a pleasing tone that came equipped with some edge. He's bristle at a pitch inside to one of those young Tigers. Kaline? Peaceful and easy, like a cool drink on a warm summer's day. 2/10

Kaline as a broadcaster wouldn't have worked without Kell but as they were it was excellent (Bernie Smilovitz was the only actual broadcaster on the show). The best example I can give you about their style comes from an late spring game maybe 1986. 3/10

I believe the game was in Chicago, and I turned it on with the Tigers up a couple maybe third inning. Kell was speaking about the Tiger starter (I think Morris but might have been Dan Petry, that's Jeff's Dad) in his relaxed way. 4/10

Kaline, who was always relaxed, threw in things like "Tigers outfield needs to stay healthy for a few weeks so Sparky can see what he's got." It was awesome. I opened a beer, and fell into the game. 5/10

Around the fifth inning, Morris (I'm pretty sure it was Morris now) was on the mound, but looking at left field. The camera didn't follow his gaze, but time was called and then roars but the television audience is just staring at Morris who is staring at left field. 6/10

Kaline mutters something, but Kell is silent. Camera pointed at Morris, who has his hands on his hips and isn't talking. I think I hear a noise from Kell but it's not really words, more the sound of a growing storm. 7/10

FINALLY, after I'll say at least one full minute: Kaline says "seems to be a disturbance out in le---" and before he could say left field Kell screamed 'ISN'T ANYBODY GONNA HELP GIBBY FOR CHRISSAKES!!!!' 8/10

and then back to silence for another 40 seconds. To end: Kirk Gibson wasn't getting help from Chester Lemon or whomever because he didn't NEED help. He was a pretty fierce and fit guy. 9/10

Second, when play was called, they went back to the game. I imagine the poor guy who ran on to the field and toward Gibson got his ass kicked, but George and Al were more interesting in the ballgame now that poor Kirk Gibson was okay. Rest in peace, Mr. Kaline. 10/10.