How We Lookin'?

Marty Brennaman's storied career as a broadcaster for the Cincinnati Reds is a testament to his dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to the sport of baseball. Spanning an impressive forty-six years, Marty has been privileged to witness and recount some of the most iconic moments in Major League Baseball history. From the thrill of World Series victories to the drama of individual achievement, Marty's voice has been an integral part of the Reds' legacy, captivating audiences with his distinctive tone and unwavering enthusiasm. Born with a love for baseball, Marty's career in broadcasting was forged in the early 1970s, when he took the reins as the Reds' voice on radio. Initially paired with Hall of Famer Joe Nuxhall, Marty quickly established himself as a talented and engaging commentator, bringing a unique blend of humor, insight, and storytelling prowess to the microphone. As the years passed, Marty's partnership with Joe Nuxhall gave way to a long and fruitful collaboration with Hall of Famer Bob Welch, but it was the iconic 'We Have a Winner' call in 1975 that made him the face, and voice, of the team. Throughout his tenure, Marty called countless games, including three World Series appearances for the Reds. The memories of those postseason encounters still linger in his mind, as he recounts the excitement, disappointment, and ultimate triumph that came with each experience. His narrative is woven with vivid descriptions of the settings, the personalities, and the sheer emotion that defined those moments. Whether it's the electricity of Riverfront Stadium's crowd or the introspective moments shared with players and fellow broadcasters, Marty's account is infused with a personal touch, making it relatable and authentic. One of the most defining events in baseball history, and one that Marty was privileged to witness, was Hank Aaron's historic home run number 714. On April 17, 1974, Aaron's achievement at Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium sent shockwaves across the nation, and Marty was there to provide live coverage of the momentous occasion. Reflecting on that day, Marty captures the tension, the drama, and the sheer weight of the moment, as he recounts Aaron's quest for the record. The narrative not only honors Aaron's monumental achievement but also pays tribute to the courage and perseverance that defined his career. In Pete Rose's case, it was on September 11, 1985, that Marty uttered his famous 'There's a base hit' call as Rose reached the coveted 4,192nd hit milestone, surpassing Ty Cobb's 70-year-old record. This particular moment encapsulates Marty's flair for the dramatic, as he recreates the electrifying atmosphere, the sense of awe, and the unbridled excitement that engulfed Riverfront Stadium's crowd. Marty's call still echoes through the baseball lexicon, forever etching its place in Reds history and cementing his status as an iconic sportscaster. The story of Marty Brennaman's life's work is also one of connection – a thread that weaves together his friendships, his relationships, and his love for the people who have made his journey so rich and rewarding. Through the voices of his peers, including luminaries such as Ernie Harwell, Tim McCarver, and Tom Hallinan, Marty's narrative becomes a testament to the enduring power of sports journalism. By chronicling the milestones, the victories, and the setbacks, Marty has not only captured the essence of a remarkable career but has also demonstrated the profound impact that he has had on the lives of those who have been fortunate enough to share his journey. In sharing his story, Marty invites us to reflect on the simple joys, and occasional sorrows, that have defined his decades-long tenure with the Cincinnati Reds. We hear the tale of his early days, as he faced both triumph and disappointment, but ultimately forged a bond that would last a lifetime. We witness the camaraderie and banter with fellow broadcasters, like Joe Nuxhall, as they traded on their passion for baseball and shared the moments of victory, defeat, and personal growth. We see Marty's growth as a broadcaster, from his early days with the Reds to becoming one of the most respected voices in baseball, with the kind of recognition that comes from witnessing true history unfold. From his inimitable signature introduction, 'We have a winner', that signaled another thrilling evening of baseball was about to begin, to the countless call of 'That ball is outta here', that electrified audiences across America, Marty Brennaman's voice has become synonymous with the Cincinnati Reds. Through his life's work as a broadcaster, Marty has not only witnessed some of the most pivotal moments in baseball history but has also helped shape the collective consciousness of a nation. As we celebrate Marty Brennan's remarkable career, it is through the voices of the people closest to him that we come to understand the depth of his humanity, and the enduring legacy that will forever be linked to the Cincinnati Reds.