The St. Louis Cardinals officially announced the hiring of their new play-by-play announcer in St. Louis native Chip Caray.
Caray comes from a long line of legendary broadcasters, including his grandfather, the great Harry Caray, who once served as the Cardinals lead radio voice.
The 57-year-old is replacing Dan McLaughlin, who stepped down after a third arrest for suspicion of drunken driving.
McLaughlin served as the Cardinals play-by-play announcer for 24 seasons.
However, Caray made sure to offer his friend some praise for the work he did covering the Cardinals.
He also expressed hope for his friend as he looks to overcome his personal issues.
More Chip Caray (cont.): "I know that (McLaughlin) is going to be OK & I'm grateful that's the case and I'm sorry the opportunity arose the way that it did. My friend and that human being is so much more important to me than a job."
— John Denton (@JohnDenton555) January 30, 2023
Caray and McLaughlin are obviously close, with both of them having ties to the Cardinals organization.
St. Louis fans enjoyed 24 seasons listening to the latter call Cardinals games and will certainly miss him.
But Caray was nice enough to offer support for his friend and express hope that one day, he will be able to overcome his struggles.
Caray also expressed sadness that the opportunity to call Cardinals games arose in such a fashion, with McLaughlin being let go.
The new Cardinals announcer also expressed how much he cared for McLaughlin and that his recovery means more to him than this new opportunity.
This is bigger than baseball.
These are two close friends who have bonded over their love of the game and the Cardinals.
And while one of them is dealing with tremendous adversity, the other is lifting him in prayer and hoping that he comes out of this okay.
NEXT: Cardinals Welcome In Their New Announcer
