Vin Scully Receives Commissioner’s Historic Achievement Award
Selig presented Scully with the Commissioner’s Historic Achievement Award, becoming the 14th recipient and second non-player to be given the award; the other is Rachel Robinson, Jackie Robinson’s wife.
The award was created in 1998 and is given as recognition of accomplishments and contributions of historical significance. Former New York Yankees closer Mariano Rivera was presented the award last season.
Via the Dodgers’ press release, Selig commended Scully for his eloquent broadcasting style:
Vin Scully is a treasure of the National Pastime. From Brooklyn to Los Angeles, from Jackie Robinson through Henry Aaron and from Sandy Koufax through Clayton Kershaw, Vin has depicted the history of the Dodgers and the timeless beauty of our game with class and grace. Major League Baseball is honored to commend Vin Scully’s 65 years of excellence.”
During the Dodgers home game July 29, Scully and the Dodgers collaborated for a video announcement that stated his intentions to return in 2015, which will be his 66th season broadcasting.
Scully’s list of career accomplishments are nothing short of remarkable — his days behind the microphone date back to the Dodgers’ days in Brooklyn, at age 25 he became the youngest announcer to ever call a World Series. This season, Scully witnessed history once again when called Clayton Kershaw’s no-hitter.
This season is Selig’s last as Commissioner with Rob Manfred set to take over.
Video of Selig presenting Scully with the award, via J.P. Hoornstra:
L.A. has certainly has been blessed by having two of the best announcers in basketball (Chick Hearn) & in baseball (Vin Scully).