1978 Ford C. Frick Award Winner Red Barber

Red Barber and Mel Allen were the first recipients of the Ford C. Frick Award.

From his beloved perch in the "Catbird Seat," Barber established hallmarks of excellence in baseball broadcasting.

A native of Columbus, Mississippi, he launched his distinguished major league announcing career in Cincinnati in 1934.

He remained with the Reds through 1938. Brought to Brooklyn by Larry MacPhail in 1939, Barber served as the "Voice of the Dodgers" for 15 years before transferring to the New York Yankees for an additional 13 seasons behind the mike.

His 33 consecutive years as a major league announcer included numerous World Series as well as other major sports broadcasts.

Colorful and innovative, Barber was highly respected and admired by his peers as an outstanding professional in his field.

A writer, lecturer, and lay preacher, he remains a legend in the elite world of baseball broadcasters.

Barber passed away on Oct. 22, 1992.