Scott Franzke – Philadelphia Phillies Extends Contract Through 2027 Season
If you’ve turned on a Phillies game on the radio any time since 2006, you’ve heard Scott Franzke’s voice. Born on March 6, 1972, Franzke has become synonymous with Phillies baseball across the Delaware Valley. As the calm and reassuring Phillies radio announcer, Franzke’s play-by-play commentary has provided the soundtrack to countless Philadelphia baseball memories.
Franzke’s journey with the Phillies began in 2006 when he joined as the pre- and postgame host for radio broadcasts. His role quickly expanded to include play-by-play duties, where his clear delivery and baseball knowledge have made him a fan favorite.
The Texas native has delivered some of the most memorable calls in recent Phillies history, especially during their 2022 postseason run.
Now in his 19th season with the organization, Franzke continues to be the voice that Philadelphia fans trust to guide them through summer evenings and crucial playoff moments. His broadcasting style—knowledgeable yet accessible—has earned him respect throughout baseball’s broadcasting community and cemented his place in Phillies history.
Contents
Career Overview
Scott Franzke has built an impressive broadcasting career, becoming one of baseball’s respected voices behind the microphone. His journey from Texas to Philadelphia represents a classic story of talent and persistence in sports broadcasting.
Early Broadcasting Career
Scott Franzke’s path to the big leagues began in his home state of Texas. Born on March 6, 1972 in Dallas, Franzke cut his teeth in broadcasting through various roles in the Texas market.
Before landing in Major League Baseball, he gained valuable experience calling minor league games. His clear delivery and knowledge of the game caught attention within broadcasting circles.
Franzke’s big break came when he joined the Texas Rangers broadcast team. There, he served as host for pre-game and post-game shows, developing the skills that would later define his career. However, his ambitions stretched beyond hosting duties.
Despite his solid position with the Rangers, Franzke faced limited opportunities to advance into play-by-play roles with the organization. This ceiling would eventually prompt him to look for new opportunities.
Joining the Phillies Broadcast Team
Franzke’s career took a pivotal turn in 2006 when he joined the Philadelphia Phillies organization. Initially hired as the pre-game and post-game host for radio broadcasts, he quickly demonstrated his versatility and baseball acumen.
The Phillies role also provided Franzke with opportunities to call games on the radio, allowing him to showcase his play-by-play talents. His smooth delivery and insightful commentary resonated with Philadelphia’s passionate baseball fanbase.
What separated Franzke from other broadcasters was his preparation and ability to weave narratives throughout games. He developed chemistry with the existing broadcast team while establishing his own distinctive voice.
His decision to leave Texas proved prescient, as Philadelphia offered the play-by-play pathway he had been seeking.
Rise to Lead Play-By-Play Announcer
Franzke’s talent and dedication quickly elevated him to a prominent position within the Phillies radio broadcast team. From his initial play-by-play opportunities, he steadily gained more airtime and responsibility.
He formed a particularly successful partnership with color commentator Larry Andersen, creating one of baseball’s most respected radio tandems. Their contrasting styles complemented each other perfectly, with Franzke’s measured calls balancing Andersen’s more colorful analysis.
By 2023, Franzke had firmly established himself as the lead radio play-by-play announcer for Phillies games on WIP. His voice became synonymous with the team’s most memorable moments of the era.
Franzke has earned respect throughout the industry for his professional approach and consistent excellence calling games. His tenure has spanned multiple eras of Phillies baseball, from the championship years to rebuilding seasons.
Broadcasting Style and Techniques
Scott Franzke has developed a distinctive broadcasting style during his time with the Philadelphia Phillies. His approach combines sharp insight, witty commentary, and an authentic passion for the game that resonates with listeners.
Play-By-Play Approach
Franzke’s smooth but authoritative voice has become synonymous with Phillies radio broadcasts since 2006. He excels at painting a vivid picture of the action for radio listeners, carefully detailing player positions, game situations, and stadium atmosphere.
His play-by-play technique balances technical baseball knowledge with accessibility for casual fans. Franzke doesn’t overwhelm listeners with statistics but weaves relevant numbers into his narrative at appropriate moments.
What separates Franzke from many announcers is his timing. He knows when to raise his energy during big moments and when to let the game breathe. This rhythmic approach keeps listeners engaged throughout nine innings.
Franzke often employs subtle alliteration and wordplay that has become part of his signature style without overriding the game action itself.
Partnership with Color Analysts
Franzke’s most notable partnership has been with color analyst Larry Andersen, forming one of baseball’s most entertaining broadcast duos. Their chemistry developed organically over years of sharing the booth.
The Franzke-Andersen dynamic works because they complement each other perfectly. Franzke sets up Andersen for analysis with well-timed questions and observations, while Andersen provides pitching insights from his playing days.
Their conversations feel natural and often include humorous exchanges that entertain during slower moments of games. Franzke learned this balanced approach partly by working alongside legendary Phillies broadcaster Harry Kalas early in his Philadelphia tenure.
Franzke imbues each Phillies game with “sharp, smart, witty badinage” according to local media observers. This conversational style makes listeners feel like they’re enjoying the game with knowledgeable friends.
Memorable Calls and Phrases
Franzke’s most celebrated call may be Matt Stairs’ home run during the 2008 playoff run, where his voice conveyed both the excitement and significance of the moment. His ability to deliver impactful calls during crucial moments has defined his career.
His home run calls feature a distinctive rising excitement that climaxes perfectly as the ball leaves the yard. For particularly spectacular plays, Franzke employs descriptive phrases that capture both the athletic brilliance and emotional impact.
During tense late-inning situations, Franzke’s voice becomes an emotional barometer for fans listening away from the ballpark. His tone shifts subtly to match the gravity of the moment.
Now in his 20th season with the team, Franzke has built an archive of memorable calls that chronicle the team’s modern history. His consistency behind the microphone has made him the soundtrack of Phillies baseball for a generation of fans.
Public Reception and Impact
Scott Franzke has become deeply woven into the fabric of Phillies fandom through his distinctive voice, passionate calls, and authentic connection with listeners. His impact extends beyond the broadcast booth into the broader Philadelphia community.
Relationship with Phillies Fans
Franzke’s voice has become synonymous with Phillies baseball for a generation of fans. Since joining the team in 2006, he has called games for nearly two decades, creating countless memorable moments at Citizens Bank Park.
His chemistry with color commentator Larry Andersen has made the radio duo beloved figures in Philadelphia sports media. The “Franzke and LA” partnership has been embraced by Phillies Nation for their entertaining banter and genuine enthusiasm for the game.
Many fans deliberately sync Franzke’s radio calls with television broadcasts, preferring his descriptions to the TV commentary. This practice became especially popular during the team’s 2022 World Series run.
His call of Bryce Harper’s NLCS-clinching home run against San Diego remains a defining moment for many fans. The raw emotion in his voice captured the significance perfectly.
Awards and Accolades
Franzke has earned industry-wide recognition for his broadcasting excellence. The Franzke-Andersen team is frequently described as “arguably the best in the business” by sports media critics.
In 2018, Franzke received the Pennsylvania Sportscaster of the Year award from the National Sports Media Association, recognizing his outstanding work. He’s been nominated multiple times throughout his career.
The Mid-Atlantic Emmy Awards have also acknowledged Franzke’s contributions to sports broadcasting in the region. His work on special Phillies programming has garnered several nominations.
| Year | Award | Organization |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | PA Sportscaster of the Year | National Sports Media Association |
| 2016 | Best Play-by-Play | Philadelphia Sports Writers Association |
| 2012 | Excellence in Broadcasting | Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters |
Community and Charitable Involvement
Franzke actively participates in Phillies Charities, Inc. events, using his platform to support various causes. His annual participation in the Phillies Phestival for ALS research has helped raise substantial funds.
He frequently serves as master of ceremonies at community events throughout the Philadelphia region. His recognizable voice lends credibility and draws crowds to fundraising activities.
Franzke has worked closely with youth baseball organizations in the area, promoting the game at the grassroots level. He regularly visits Little League fields and youth clinics, sharing his knowledge and passion.
The broadcaster participates in the team’s annual holiday giving campaign, helping distribute necessities to families in need. His behind-the-scenes charitable work often goes unnoticed but has meaningful impact.
Behind the Scenes
Scott Franzke brings Phillies baseball to life on radio through extensive preparation, teamwork, and various off-air duties that most fans never see.
Preparation for Games
Franzke’s game day starts hours before the first pitch. He arrives at the ballpark about four hours early to gather information and prepare for the broadcast. His routine includes reviewing statistics, studying player trends, and creating detailed note cards.
Before each series, Franzke compiles information on opposing players, recent team performance, and relevant storylines. He conducts pre-game interviews with Phillies manager Joe Girardi and other coaches to gain insights that might enhance the broadcast.
“You never want to be caught off guard,” Franzke once said about his meticulous preparation process. His commitment shows in the depth of knowledge he brings to each call.
His preparation binder typically contains:
- Player statistics and trends
- Historical matchup data
- Pronunciation guides for opposing players
- Key stories and narratives to follow
Collaboration with Broadcast Team
Franzke works closely with color commentators and production staff to create seamless broadcasts. His partnership with former Phillies player Larry Andersen has become one of baseball’s most respected radio duos.
The broadcast team meets before games to discuss storylines and coordinate coverage. During games, Franzke communicates with producers through headset cues while maintaining natural conversation with his broadcast partners.
Behind the scenes footage shows how the team adapted during pandemic restrictions, broadcasting road games remotely using multiple camera feeds and technology.
Franzke also collaborates with the Phillies’ TV broadcast team led by Tom McCarthy, occasionally sharing research and insights. This cross-platform cooperation ensures consistent storytelling across all Phillies broadcasts.
Off-Air Responsibilities
Beyond his on-air duties, Franzke handles numerous responsibilities fans rarely see. He spends hours researching statistics, team histories, and player backgrounds to enhance future broadcasts.
Franzke participates in pre- and post-game shows, providing analysis and interviews. These segments require additional preparation and coordination with producers and other broadcasters.
He represents the Phillies at community events and charity functions throughout the year. During the offseason, he attends winter meetings and maintains contact with team sources to stay informed on roster moves.
His memorable postseason calls from the Phillies’ 2022 playoff run required extensive preparation, reviewing opposing teams and creating specialized notes for high-pressure moments.
Franzke also mentors young broadcasters, occasionally speaking at colleges and broadcasting workshops about the craft of play-by-play announcing.
Significant Milestones
Scott Franzke has cemented his place as the voice of the Phillies through several career-defining moments. His passionate calls during pivotal games and his growing role within the organization have made him a beloved figure in Philadelphia sports broadcasting.
Notable Games and Events
Franzke’s call of the Phillies’ victory over the Padres in the 2022 NLCS stands out as one of his most memorable moments. His emotional reaction to Bryce Harper’s go-ahead home run—often referred to as “Bedlam at the Bank“—captured the intensity of the moment perfectly.
“It was one of those moments that sports fans live for,” Franzke noted after Harper’s home run propelled the Phillies to the World Series.
During the 2008 World Series championship run, Franzke’s voice became synonymous with Philadelphia’s return to baseball glory. His ability to convey the excitement without losing his descriptive edge earned him significant praise.
The 2009 NLCS and the 2022 World Series appearances also featured Franzke’s trademark balance of emotion and precision, particularly during critical late-inning situations.
Contract Extensions and Career Highlights
The Phillies formally recognized Franzke’s value to the organization when they signed him to a long-term deal in February 2023. This contract extension ensures his voice remains connected to the team for the foreseeable future.
Since joining the Phillies broadcast team in 2006, Franzke has received multiple industry accolades. In 2008, he and his partner won the Philadelphia A.I.R. Award for Best Live Sports Event Coverage—their second consecutive victory.
Franzke’s Broadcasting Achievements:
| Year | Achievement |
|---|---|
| 2007 | First A.I.R. Award |
| 2008 | Second A.I.R. Award |
| 2008 | Called World Series championship |
| 2021 | Began calling all nine innings for every game |
| 2023 | Signed long-term contract extension |
His stature within the organization has steadily risen over his career, evolving from newcomer to the definitive voice of Phillies baseball.
Transition Moments in Phillies History
Franzke has guided listeners through several transitional eras of Phillies baseball. He called the twilight years of the 2008 championship core, including emotional farewells to Chase Utley, Jimmy Rollins, and Ryan Howard.
The rebuilding years showcased Franzke’s infinite patience with struggling teams while maintaining his engaging broadcast style. His ability to find compelling storylines during challenging seasons kept fans connected during difficult years.
When the Phillies began their competitive resurgence with the signings of Harper, Wheeler, and Realmuto, Franzke’s enthusiasm reflected the renewed energy. His calls during the 2022 postseason run perfectly captured the team’s unexpected journey from wild card to pennant winners.
Beginning in 2021, Franzke took on an expanded role when he started calling all nine innings for every game, giving him greater continuity in storytelling throughout broadcasts.
Franzke and the Broadcast Landscape
Scott Franzke has become an integral part of the Philadelphia sports media ecosystem, evolving with the changing broadcast landscape while maintaining the intimate connection between fans and baseball through radio. His approach to game calling reflects both traditional values and modern sensibilities.
Evolution of Sports Broadcasting
The sports broadcasting world has changed dramatically since Franzke began his career. Traditional radio broadcasts have faced challenges from streaming services, social media, and multi-platform content distribution. Despite these shifts, baseball on the radio maintains a special place in fans’ hearts.
NBC Sports Philadelphia continues to adapt its broadcast coverage, balancing television with digital offerings. Meanwhile, radio broadcasts have evolved beyond simple play-by-play to include advanced analytics and deeper storytelling.
The Phillies’ broadcast team mirrors this evolution, embracing new technologies while honoring baseball’s rich audio tradition. Franzke’s voice has become synonymous with summer evenings for Phillies fans across the Delaware Valley.
Franzke’s Contribution to the Industry
As the Phillies’ radio voice, Franzke has earned widespread acclaim for his descriptive play-by-play and ability to convey the game’s emotion. His contract extension through the mid-2020s demonstrates the organization’s commitment to broadcast stability.
Franzke’s approach stands out in several ways:
- Descriptive imagery that paints the game for listeners
- Balanced enthusiasm during big moments without overwhelming the broadcast
- Chemistry with analysts that creates natural conversation
- Storytelling ability that fills slower moments with relevant content
Born in Dallas in 1972, Franzke has become a Philadelphia institution despite his Texas roots. His work alongside various color commentators showcases his adaptability and collaborative spirit within the booth.
Perspectives on Modern Broadcasting Challenges
The contemporary broadcast landscape presents unique challenges that Franzke navigates expertly. Digital fragmentation has created competition for listeners’ attention, with MLB.com and team apps offering alternative ways to follow games.
Social media integration has become essential, with broadcasters now expected to maintain presence beyond the airwaves. Franzke has embraced this reality while prioritizing his core radio responsibilities.
The financial model of sports broadcasting continues to evolve, with regional sports networks facing pressures from cord-cutting. Yet radio broadcasts remain relatively stable, benefiting from lower production costs and dedicated audiences.
Franzke’s ability to connect with listeners regardless of platform speaks to his understanding of broadcasting fundamentals. Whether through traditional radio, streaming services, or podcast highlights, his distinctive voice continues to reach Phillies fans wherever they are.
Personal Life and Interests
Behind the microphone, Scott Franzke leads a fulfilling family life while maintaining connections with Phillies fans through various platforms. His Texas roots and family values shape his identity away from the broadcast booth.
Family and Personal Background
Scott Franzke was born on March 6, 1972, in Dallas, Texas, establishing deep roots in the Lone Star State before his career brought him to Philadelphia. His Texas heritage remains an important part of his identity, despite having called Philadelphia home since joining the Phillies in 2006.
Franzke currently resides in Gladwyne, Pennsylvania, with his wife Lori and their three children: son Gus and twin daughters Loretta and June. The family’s move to the Philadelphia area represents Franzke’s commitment to his role with the Phillies, having established themselves in the community for nearly two decades.
His transition from Texas to Pennsylvania mirrors his professional journey, having worked with the Texas Rangers before making the cross-country move to join the Phillies broadcasting team.
Off-The-Field Hobbies and Activities
When not calling games for the Phillies, Franzke enjoys exploring the rich culinary scene in Philadelphia. He’s known to frequent local restaurants and has developed an appreciation for Philadelphia’s distinctive food culture.
Franzke maintains his Texas connections through his love of barbecue, occasionally sharing his own cooking adventures with colleagues. His appreciation for music, particularly classic rock and country, reflects his Dallas upbringing.
An avid reader, Franzke often mentions books he’s enjoying during rain delays or pre-game segments. His reading tastes tend toward non-fiction, especially sports biographies and American history.
Colleagues note his dry wit and deadpan humor extend beyond the broadcast booth, making him a valued presence at team functions and charity events throughout the Philadelphia area.
Engagement with Fans on Social Media
Though more restrained in his social media presence than some broadcasters, Franzke maintains connection with fans primarily through targeted interactions rather than constant posting. His authentic approach has earned him respect among the Phillies fanbase.
On Twitter, Franzke occasionally shares insights about games, baseball history, and Philadelphia culture. While not prolific, his posts typically generate enthusiastic responses from loyal listeners who appreciate his broadcasting style.
Franzke participates in team-sponsored meet-and-greets and fan events throughout the season. These personal interactions allow fans to connect with the voice they’ve welcomed into their homes and cars during Phillies broadcasts.
His approach to fan engagement reflects his broadcasting style: thoughtful, authentic, and focused on quality rather than quantity. Franzke values these connections, recognizing the intimate relationship between radio broadcasters and their audience.
In the News and Media
Scott Franzke continues to be a prominent media figure in Philadelphia sports, giving fans insight into Phillies baseball through various platforms while building his reputation as one of baseball’s respected voices.
Recent Interviews and Features
Franzke recently appeared in a notable segment on Foul Territory TV discussing the Phillies’ offseason moves. His analysis provided fans with his characteristic measured perspective on team developments.
The Philadelphia Inquirer featured Franzke in March 2025, highlighting his remarkable 20-season tenure with the Phillies. The piece emphasized his “calm and reassuring” broadcasting style that has become a staple for fans.
Franzke also joined Gregg Murphy for an in-depth conversation on Phillies Nation TV alongside Kevin Stocker. They discussed the unique challenges of radio broadcasting compared to television coverage.
Media Coverage of Career Developments
Media outlets consistently track Franzke’s career milestones. Matt Gelb, senior writer for The Athletic, profiled Franzke’s evolution from pre-game host to the primary radio voice of the Phillies.
His contract status receives periodic attention, though specifics of his compensation package remain largely private. Industry estimates place top MLB radio broadcasters in the $300,000-$500,000 annual salary range.
| Career Milestone | Year | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Joined Phillies | 2006 | Initial role: pre/postgame host |
| Primary Play-by-Play | 2007 | Promoted to main announcer |
| 20th Season | 2025 | Achievement highlighted in media |
Franzke’s broadcasting approach has garnered praise from industry publications for his storytelling abilities and chemistry with broadcast partners, cementing his place among Philadelphia’s respected sports media personalities.
Future Prospects and Projects
Scott Franzke’s career with the Philadelphia Phillies continues to evolve as he enters his third decade with the organization. His distinctive voice has become synonymous with Phillies baseball, and his future with the team appears bright.
Upcoming Seasons with the Phillies
The 2025 season marks Franzke’s 20th year calling Phillies games on 94.1 WIP, a remarkable milestone in sports broadcasting. Back in the booth for another season, Franzke brings continuity to the radio broadcasts that fans have come to cherish.
In recent comments about the 2025 season, Franzke noted that “a rebound year by Bryson Stott would be a huge boost for the offense,” showing his analytical approach to team prospects. His assessment carries weight with fans who rely on his insights.
The organization values Franzke’s reliability and baseball knowledge. His contract details remain private, but industry sources suggest the Phillies have secured his services for multiple seasons beyond 2025.
Potential Role Expansions
Franzke’s broadcasting expertise positions him for potential expanded responsibilities within the organization. Executive vice president Dave Buck has previously praised Franzke’s contributions, suggesting possible involvement in broader media strategy.
There have been discussions about Franzke potentially hosting more specialized content, including:
- Pre-game analysis shows
- Phillies documentary projects
- Mentorship programs for young broadcasters
His deep knowledge of the team’s history and players makes him an ideal candidate for special broadcasting assignments during milestone events or playoff runs.
Industry observers note that veteran broadcasters with Franzke’s tenure often transition into roles that leverage their institutional knowledge and credibility with fans.
Long-Term Goals and Aspirations
Franzke admires broadcasters who became institutional fixtures with one team. He hasn’t publicly outlined specific career goals, but his path suggests he aims to join the ranks of legendary team voices.
The Phillies organization typically rewards loyalty. Franzke’s consistent excellence positions him for potential honors like:
| Potential Recognition | Typical Timeline | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|
| Phillies Wall of Fame | After 25+ years | Significant contribution |
| Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame | Career achievement | Regional impact |
| Ford C. Frick Award consideration | Late career | National recognition |
His rapport with the Philadelphia fan base continues to strengthen. He has called numerous playoff appearances and developed a distinctive broadcasting style. Franzke has established himself as more than just a voice—he’s become part of the fabric of Phillies baseball.
