There is often movement between former players into either coaching, punditry or front office work, but rarely has a play-by-play commentator made the switch to the front office of an MLB team.
Dick Bremer has called almost 5,000 games for the Minnesota Twins and will step away from broadcasting into a position of Special Assistant at the team.
In an emotional statement to the team’s supporters, he said:
“For 40 years, I’ve been blessed to totally immerse myself in the game that I love for the team that I love.
“In those 40 years, I broadcast 4,972 Twins games. Over the last year or so, I thought it would really be cool to make it to 5,000. Then, I thought to myself, how selfish would that be? A broadcast should NEVER be about the announcer. It should ALWAYS be about the game and those who play it.”
Always modest and aware of the history and significance of the game over an individual and the 67-year-old will hope to bring his attitude to the Twins next season.
Twin’s CEO Dave St. Peter was effusive in his praise for the legendary broadcaster saying, “Dick Bremer’s legacy as the hometown television voice of the Minnesota Twins for four decades will undoubtedly someday result in his deserved induction into the Twins Hall of Fame.
“While one chapter of his Twins career is closing, we are excited that Dick will continue to write his legacy around the Twins in this Special Assistant Role.”
The Twins will have to find new voices, and a new broadcasting partner, with their relationship with Diamond Sports Bally Sports North finishing this year.
The team said they are “currently assessing potential broadcast options.”
