Phillies fan wins auction, calls radio inning to acclaim

A Philadelphia Phillies fan delivered a standout performance on live radio this week, turning a charity auction prize into a viral moment that captivated baseball listeners. Lewis Kalb, a substitute teacher from Medford Lakes, New Jersey, joined the Phillies' 94WIP broadcast team on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, to call the third inning of a game against the Washington Nationals. His smooth, professional delivery alongside regular announcers Scott Franzke and Larry Andersen drew immediate and widespread praise from fans online, with many calling for him to be offered a broadcasting job.

Kalb won the opportunity through the Phillies' annual Phantastic Auction, placing a winning bid of $22,010. The auction, now in its 14th year, raises money for Phillies Charities, Inc., and ALS United Mid-Atlantic, with this year's event generating over $417,000 in total proceeds. Prizes often include unique fan experiences, with broadcast opportunities being among the most coveted.

Stepping into the booth on a muggy evening at Citizens Bank Park, Kalb expressed his excitement, calling it a lifelong dream. He then seamlessly transitioned into calling the action, describing pitches and game...