Lookouts announcer Larry Ward going into the Hall of Fame

CHATTANOOGA (WDEF) – Chattanooga Lookouts announcer Larry Ward will be inducted into the Southern League Hall of Fame this summer.

He will get the nod during the 2016 All-Star Game in Pearl, Mississippi.

“It is very humbling to be selected to the Southern League Hall of Fame,” said Larry Ward. “This career is a 34-year adventure in baseball with 29 years in the Southern League. My first phone calls about this honor were to my wife, Nelle and our daughter Megan to thank them for being a part of this honor. Over 4,000 games, 300,000 bus miles and a bevy of hot dogs are behind me. When I began the adventure, being in a Hall of Fame was never on my mind. I thank a lot of people and especially Frank Burke who believed in me every day to “tell it like it is” and love the game. Thank you fellow broadcasters, fans, listeners and friends of baseball for without you this honor would not have been possible.”

Ward is entering his 28th consecutive season calling Lookouts games.

That makes him the longest tenured announcer in the Southern League.

“Larry is a legend in Minor League Baseball and in this community. It is great to see him get the recognition he deserves,” said Lookouts President Rich Mozingo. “Our whole staff could not be more excited or proud of our co-worker and friend.”