The Chris Wheeler for Hall of Fame Action Blog

The Chris Wheeler 4 Hall of Fame Update

2010-07-23T13:15:00.000-07:00

No news on getting Mr. Wheeler into the Hall of Fame. Here's a picture of a cute puppy to pass the time. We'll report back as soon as possible.

All The Wheelites Vote Up My Man Chris

2010-05-20T15:05:00.000-07:00

Over on 'backshegoes.com' (very funny, guys *eyeroll*), someone put up a poll about whether the phandom wants to 'take' or 'leave' our main man behind the mic Chris Wheeler. Anyone reading this site knows where we stand, and we likely know where you, our humble reader, do as well. So get at it! Vote up a Philadelphia legend. Let's go people! CLICK HERE

Are you following Chris Wheeler on Twitter?

2010-04-14T17:00:00.001-07:00

I know I am. Here's The Real Chris Wheeler on the Tweeters! Here's a few gems from our main man:

Glad that beard nonsense is over with! Jeez! How about that Ross Gload?

10:50 PM Mar 30th

Everyone is going to miss Brett Myers' laugh in that clubhouse! What a character!

9:32 AM Nov 7th, 2009

Don't waste your money on the Warhol Museum, the nerve of that guy to call himself an "artist"!

11:50 AM Aug 25th, 2009
And don't forget to also follow the illustrious Sarge Matthews, the terrific Tom McCarthy (our favorite Mets fan employed by the Phillies to broadcast Phillies games!), and of course the smugly smuggy smug Ruben Amaro Jr. Rube's posts really are off the chain...

Goodbye Harry, We'll Miss You

2009-04-13T12:49:00.000-07:00

Serious post here folks, today's not the day for jokes. I'll miss you Harry. You were a legend, are a legend. Your voice, your style, your personality, all of it made you a baseball great in Philadelphia. You'll live on in the memories of every fan, whether they remember 1980, 1993, 2008 or every other year inbetween.

Keep on guys.

Our Main Man Wheels Doing His Thang

2008-10-29T22:21:00.000-07:00

Chris Wheeler, along with the rest of us, witnessed the Phillies World Series victory up close and personal and reacted as such. It was raw, it was real, and it was great:

From everyone at this blog, we love you Wheels and we share in your joy.

Special Guest Post By Wheels Himself!!!

2007-11-28T20:02:00.000-08:00

Yes friends, our favorite announcer of all-time has decided to email us his thoughts on the recent re-acquisition by the Phillies of fellow play-by-play man Tom McCarthy. I'm just going to re-post it word for word, but with the actual blessing of said emailer, unlike some others that shall remain unnamed (*cough cough*):

Dear Chris Wheeler 4 HOF Action Blog:

Hey there guys. I was reluctant to email you about the recent news when I first read your website. Your 'blog', as the kids call it, looked great and had terrific subject matter, but I was unsure of whether the Phillies organization wanted me to let the cat out of the bag. But how important is it to connect with your fans? I'd say it's huge, like Safeco Field. Boy is that a joke! Anyway, you may have already heard that Tom McCarthy is coming back to the Phillies to help me out with the play-by-play. I've been working with Harry Kalas for years now, and while he's all class, we all know that he's been thinking about retiring because of some issues he's had of late. Let's just say he's been calling games like he's underwater! So the organization saw fit to give me something special to work with, namely the up-and-comer Tom.

Tom's a great kid. He's bubbly, goofy and just a beauty of a guy. Much like me, he respects the game's history and those who came before him and is a great baseball man. I'm going to enjoy showing him the ropes and teaching him the ins and outs of broadcasting. I hope one day he can become a lead announcer somewhere and be loved by the fanbase, sort of how I'm thought of in the city of Brotherly Love.

But Tom will be the first to tell you that he's a Mets fan though, bahaha. That's going to be interesting in those really weird games where Jose Reyass smokes a ball into the gap off a first-ball fastball set middle-in. How will Tom react? I guess we'll see how he scores it.
That's all for now guys. Wish me luck in my quest for the Hall of Fame honors in 2008. If Harry can get in, I sure as heck should too, bahahaha.

Best Wishes,
'Wheels'

Our Main Man Shakin' It

2007-09-24T05:11:00.000-07:00

Our favorite announcer/hitting guru Chris Wheeler recently broke it down for Gary Matthews, showing him what's up:

Shake that thing Wheels, give the ladies what they want.

Chris Wheeler Guessing Game This Weekend vs Padres

2007-07-20T16:00:00.000-07:00

You know that it must be important if this blog is updated more than once a month! And dang if this isn't the most important thing since trying to get Christopher Wheeler in the Hall of Fame! It's no secret that our muse has a thing for HUGE(like Safeco) ballparks. So another blog is running a contest with the premise being that Chris' fans must guess how many times he will mention the size of Petco Park during the next 3 games against the San Diego Padres.

Can we go with 1? 1st inning of the first game to last inning of the last game??? He won't sleep, he will just keep talking about it for 72 hours. It's why we love him. It's why he is the cornerstone of this franchise.

As The Trade Winds Blow...

2007-07-05T22:36:00.000-07:00

...one can watch the Wheels in motion. Yes, our hero Chris Wheeler is at his absolute best when July hits and the Phillies throw themselves into the Wild Card hunt. He puts his nose to the ground and hits the phones to find the ballclub the best offers out there. Wheels was the one whom Ed Wade would go to for advice when up all night in his bunker in Clearwater, Florida. Wade was Wheeler's protege back when Wade started as the Player Personnel Administrator. He knew that to get to the top he had to ride the stallion that was, and indeed still is, Christopher Wheeler. Chris' vast knowledge of gamers, veterans, and screwballs helped to propel the team to several 80-some win seasons from 2002-2005, no small feat for a small-market team such as the Philadelphia Phillies.

And yet he still has so much to give. Word is he has even brought along Pat Gillick this season. Gillick, while accomplished, had yet to garner the all important respect he sorely wanted from Wheels. Deal after deal has been made to win this approval, but it proves elusive. One can only hope that Gillick is listening to the king of trade, the sultan of the deal, the prince of gamble, when he listens to offers throughout this month. To know Chris Wheeler is one thing; to earn his respect...well that's quite another.

God Bless Abraham Lincoln, Lance Armstrong, George Washington, Taylor Hicks, and Chris Wheeler.

Memo to one Joe Savery

2007-06-07T19:35:00.000-07:00

Congratulations! You've just been selected in the 1st round of Major League Baseball's draft! You're on a theoretical(and maybe literal?) high right now. You're feeling pretty great, your wallet is about to increase exponentially, and you're likely going to be put on the fast-track to the major leagues. So what can possibly be said to you right now that you should take to heart? Two words: Christopher Wheeler. Chris Wheeler is your ticket to the bigs, son. He is your light, your way, your everything. He is the beginning and the end. He is.

Listen to what this man has to say. He has done it all and helped countless others...just read these pages. Chris Wheeler is pure magic and you are within his grasp. Embrace it!

Chris Wheeler's Gift To Gary Matthews Sr. And To Us

2007-04-09T16:15:00.000-07:00

Legendary Phillies announcer Chris Wheeler is known throughout baseball as the foremost baseball man in the booth. He's brought along such talents as Richie Ashburn, Harry Kalas and Larry Andersen, and made them into broadcasting stars. All of them have credited 'Wheels' with fine-tuning their skills. The only person reported to have not gotten along with his greatness was former Phillie announcer Scott Graham, who refused to improve and heed the advice of Chris. We all know what happened to him; he's been relegated to calling shots for lowly A10 basketball games. He's even been cited moonlighting at a Wawa in Cherry Hill, NJ.

And this brings us to the newest Phillies announcer: Gary Matthews Sr. 'Sarge' was a terrific ballplayer in his day, and was known for his defense and winning attitude. He helped bring the Phillies their only World Series victory in 1980. Matthews even raised a fine young man in Gary Matthews Jr., who has himself gone on to great success in the Majors through hard work and from valuable advice from his father.

Senior is determined to get better and better as a broadcaster. He's even told others that he'd be willing to do ANYTHING to develop his voice, his style and his banter. This is where Chris Wheeler comes in. It's being reported from various sources close to the Phillies that Wheels has taken it upon himself to bring Sarge along and make him in his image. This is certainly great for Sarge, but it's even better for the phandom at large. By bringing him under his wing, Wheels ensures a better chemistry with Sarge, and also does what he does best: teach. Whether it's between the lines, at the mic, or in the community, Wheels greatest gift to humanity is not his vast knowledge, it's his ability and willingness to share his insight with the rest of the Delaware Valley and, indeed, the world.

Many Phillies faithful have long searched for a replacement to Harry Kalas and his smooth pipes once he finally retires. Well that wait may be over...if Wheels has anything to say about it.

How Chris Wheeler Got Chase Utley 85 Million Dollars

2007-01-27T10:17:00.000-08:00

It is widely known now that Chase Utley just negotiated a deal with the Philadelphia Phillies for 7 years, 85 million dollars. What is not widely know is just how this came about, and who was behind it. I'm here to break the news for everyone reading at home, and those in the media: Christopher Wheeler, broadcaster, funnyman, and general baseball expert, helped bring the Phillies and Utley together for this deal. Yes folks, Wheels himself got this contract going. Here's the story.

It was late December, Christmas time, and Chris was sitting at home by the fireplace in his mansion in suburban Philadephia when he recieved a call from Phillies President Dave Montgomery.

"Hey Chris, what's happening?"

"Oh not much Dave. Just sitting here thinking about all the children in the world in poverty, and what I, Chris Wheeler, can do to help. The rug and I were thinking that we could start a charity, but couldn't come up with a good name."

"That's great thinking Chris. Perhaps Wheeler's Dealers or something?! Who knows, who really cares Chris. I need you right now."

"Come on Dave, I already told you that I'm flattered but I don't go that way."

"That's not what I meant. But thanks again for being gentle with me. No, the reason I called you was because I need your advice about this upcoming arbitration stuff. I'm going to give the reins to Ruben on this thing, instead of Pat. But what I needed to know was if you could sway Chase to staying with the Phils for a hometown discount."

"Well...first thing is that it's great to hear you say you're using Ruben. I know he's definitely your first choice for GM once ol' Gillick retires, and it'll be a great one. Second thing is that I'll definitley talk to Utters. Thing is, I'm not going to sway him to the Phils."

"You're not?! But but but, we need you Chris!"

"No, I'm not. What I am willing to do is demand that he stays with the Phillies, and that he settles down and finds him a nice woman, like I did with Rug."

*Dave chuckles * "Oh Chris, you had me for a second! Oh you!"

So Wheels decided he'd help the Phils keep his favorite new player. Utters had really shown him something during 2006, especially when he came over to Chris' house to get some batting tips. Right after, he went on a 35 game hit streak, and his dedication and late night sessions with Wheels really paid off. Wheels himself told me that he had to help a guy like Utters, a guy who was a real ballplayer and just fun to watch.
=======

It was January 1st and Chase had a raging headache from the night prior. No, it wasn't from drinking in the New Year; instead, the pain coincided with his choice to run 10 miles in the cold. This was the heart and drive he learned from his mentor Chris Wheeler. Chase's fiancee Heidi became a bit concerned when he told her of his late night run, but completely understood once she became aware of from the idea came. Chris had dropped by the home on New Year's Eve.

Chase and Chris were almost inseperable for the past several months, and would let Heidi along for the ride once in a while. She accepted this, because she knew in her heart and hearts that Chris would make her man a better ballplayer and a better person. She saw what he did with Scott Rolen, and then what happened once Scott had stopped listening to CW (what Chase called his buddy). She wasn't about to let Chase screw this up.

Chase knew the legend of Wheels, and was excited when he picked Chase as his chosen one. So Chase understood and agreed to the idea that he HAD to re-sign with the Philadelphia Phillies. It was just a matter of for how much and for how long.

"Chase, you have to sign with these guys. They're going to make a huge splash in the free agent market. I'm almost certain they will get a big-time catcher and center fielder. If you stay long-term, you'll be like the late 90s Yankees."

"I know, I know. But I want to make sure I'm not screwed in this. What if I get hurt and am never the same again? I want to make sure my contract is long enough so that I have enough guaranteed."

"No worries Chase, no worries. I'll make certain they give you enough. All you have to do is sign power of attorney over to me. There's no need for you to have an agent when you have me."

"True, true. You've never steered me wrong before. And you have much better stories about all the ballplayers you've met."
=====

All of this led to the eventual 7 year deal. However, the entire ordeal would not go as smoothly as hoped. The malcontent in left field, Pat Burrell, got a hold of Chase only days before he was to sign his big contract.

For the first severals years of his career, Pat Burrell had been beloved in Philadelphia. He hit well between the lines and at the bars. He lived in the city. Fans bought his jersey. He even got his own big contract early in his career.

But then he suffered a horrible season in 2003. The cheers turned to indifference. The indifference turned to boos. He tried his best, but it was never good enough. He even bounced back nicely in 2005, hitting for power, and getting on base an impressive amount. He even suffered through injuries in 2006 but had another decent year. But it wasn't enough for the fans, or for managment. Down the stretch, he heard complaints about strike outs. He heard it about not hitting in the clutch, despite a great 2005 during the same times, and a good overall career in those instances. He heard it about defense. But he was hurt, Pat thought! What more could he do? What did these fans want out of him? Did he need to be Joe DiMaggio or Albert Pujols to get any love? What would be expected of Chase once he signed a big contract?

Pat tried to warn him.

"Chase, look at what these fans are doing to me. I've put up some pretty good numbers the past two years, both on and off the field, and they're crucifying me!"

"But Pat, they love me. I have dirt on my uniform. I LOOK like I'm going all-out when I run. And, best of all, I have CW by my side. Where CW goes, so go I."

"Oh that's crap! Chris Wheeler is an idiot with a rug on his head! He laughs like a hyena at his own jokes and thinks he knows everything about a sport he never played! Fuck him!"

"Wow, just wow Pat. I don't even know you anymore man. Insult me if you want, insult my fiancee, even my mother. But Wheels? How dare you sir. How dare you. I'll be your teammate, but I won't be your friend. This conversation is over."

And with that, Chase called up 'CW' and informed him that he would be signing with the Philadelphia Phillies for whatever money Chris and the organization decided on. And Chris Wheeler had now ensured the future of another superstar.

disclaimer: conversations may or may not have actually taken place

Discuss All Things Wheels At BackSheGoes.com

2007-01-14T14:45:00.000-08:00

There are now 45 days left until we are greeted to the smooth pipes of one Christopher Wheeler, but you can talk all about him at BackSheGoes.com. All things Wheels are discussed there, and as the anticipation builds for his return you can be a part of it.

We know we all love our Wheels, now show it! The HOF may have not voted him in, but we can build a following and correct this injustice!

First Howard, Now Wheeler

2006-11-20T12:39:00.000-08:00

Since Ryan Howard was named NL MVP today, we should renew our efforts to see the legendary 'Wheels' inducted into the Hall of Fame. Our Phillies deserve recognition for their terrific play, and their terrific play by play. Chris Wheeler, along with his hair, were just as important as Ryan Howard to the 2006 Philadephia Phillies campaign.

Christopher Wheeler's wit and insight paved the way for young Ryan to mature. There can be no doubt that Wheels tutored young Ryan in all aspects of the game. Many a story surfaced about him spending late nights at CBP with Ryan in the batting cages, helping to fix holes in Ryan's swing and to define that batting eye. As both a licensed nutritionist and bodybuilder, Wheels can also lay claim to improving Ryan's diet and workout regimen, so much so that Ryan himself has publicly stated he gives 99% of the credit to Chris (the other 1% is to his parents for providing a stable environment to flourish in):

"I know most already know this, but Chris really helped me out. 'Wheels', as his closest friends like to call him, insisted that I strive for more than just a major league job. Before the 2004 season Wheels met me in a diner in Clearwater and together we mapped out my entire future. He even helped me pick some clothes out when I finally made it to the majors. I am forever indebted to him. This honor belongs to him, I am just the vessel that spread the message of Wheels."

From this we can start to see the Wheels philosophy...one of compassion, dedication, and spirit. For this, the world owes Chris Wheeler.

2006-11-03T08:35:00.000-08:00

As most of us already know, legendary Phillies broadcaster Chris Wheeler is on the ballot for the 2007 National Baseball Hall of Fame Ford C. Frick Award. If elected, "Wheels" (as the initiated like to call him) will take his rightful place in Cooperstown alongside (or at least in the same building) as the game's other greats, including Lloyd Waner, Rube Marquard, and Jack Chesbro.

On this blog we will chronicle Wheels' many great accomplishments and share stories of the joy he has brought into our lives.

Quick Edit: If you don't know who our beloved Wheels is, or you simply want to freshen up on his trend-setting catchphrases, head on over to http://chriswheelerglossary.com