Padres: Broadcasters Finalists for Call of the Year on Solarte’s Catch

Padres’ announcers have some fun with Yangervis Solarte’s spectacular catch, earning them a spot as a finalist in major league baseball’s 2016 awards.

One of the more fun aspects of the MLB Awards given out each year is the TV/Radio call award, given to the best call of the year. Though not a whole lot went right for the San Diego Padres this season, their radio broadcasters Dan Orsillo and Mark Grant continue to prove that they are among the best in the business.

In the ninth inning of the team’s 4-1 victory of the San Francisco Giants on July 15th, Orsillo and Grant humorously called a spectacular catch made by third baseman Yangervis Solarte off the bat of Angel Pagan.

As Solarte chased down a foul ball and made the grab while diving into the stands, mustard and cheese got all over the ball. This is what led to the priceless call which is up for the award.

“Fly ball, lifted down the third base line, Solarte into foul ground… Will lean over, does he have the ball? Does he have the ball? Yes he does! What a catch! Yangervis Solarte to the first row to make the grab! Its got some mustard on it, and some other stuff, but it’s an out! It’s a cheeseball! Mustard, nacho cheese! Excuse me sir, but there’s a third baseman in my nachos!”

The competition will be tough, as Dodger legend Vin Scully will undoubtedly have the early upper hand in the voting. Also up for the award are announcers from the Washington Nationals, New York Mets, and Cleveland Indians. Two of these involve dramatic walk-off victories, and the other involves an impressive milestone, making it hard for the Padres to take home this award. But with San Diego fans coming out in full force to support their beloved broadcasters, the team can find a small success from 2016, even if it is in the form of a humorous radio call.

Next: Reflecting on Tenure of President Mike Dee

Fans can vote for Orsillo and Grant as a part of the Esurance MLB Awards through November 11th. The play can be seen and the call can be heard here, and fans can vote for their favorites broadcasters here.