The Philadelphia Eagles have had players, coaches, and owners come and go for the last 29 years. But there was always one constant: Public Address Announcer Dan Baker. Hearing Baker's voice at a game is enough to make you know you were somewhere special. However, the Philadelphia Eagles did not think so, and have fired Baker from his duties.
Via 6ABC the Eagles explained the move:
"Dan is the ultimate professional and even though he was disappointed with the direction we are heading, he was accepting of our decision to make the change," team president Don Smolenski is quoted as saying in the statement.
The Eagles went on to say they will "begin a search for a new public address announcer and will work closely with an outside agency to aid in this transition.
While one must wonder how "accepting" one may be when they have no choice in the decision, but Baker responded as the professional he is:
Baker is quoted in the statement as saying "I want to thank Mr. Lurie, the Philadelphia Eagles, and the fans for the privilege of announcing 29 great years of Eagles football," said Baker. "It has truly been an honor."
I once asked Baker which of the two teams he liked more: the Phillies or the Eagles. Baker told me, "That is like asking me which of your children you love more". Baker will have to do without one of his children. Baker remains the voice of the Philadelphia Phillies games and of Drexel Dragons basketball.
