The Rangers released this statement on the passing the Arlington resident.
"Major League Baseball and the Texas Rangers have lost a legendary play-by-play announcer and a great friend. Merle Harmon called games with distinction and class in his nearly 40 years with the Kansas City A's, Milwaukee Braves, Minnesota Twins, Milwaukee Brewers, and Texas Rangers. The Rangers had the privilege of having Mr. Harmon in their television booth for his final eight years as a broadcaster. He was one of the true gentlemen of his profession. We express our deepest sympathies to Mr. Harmon's family and friends."
Mr. Harmon worked Rangers games on KXAS-TV (1982-83), 5 Star Cable (1982), and Home Sports Entertainment (1983-89). He was behind the mike when Nolan Ryan recorded his 5000th career strikeout on August 22, 1989 against Oakland's Rickey Henderson at Arlington Stadium.
The Rangers will observe a moment of silence for Mr. Harmon prior to Wednesday night's game with the Baltimore Orioles. The club will also erect a plaque outside the home television booth at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington in his memory later this season.
