Terry Smith began his radio broadcast of the Los Angeles Angels’ spring training game Wednesday with an unusual — and heartfelt — greeting.
“I feel extremely fortunate to be on the air with you,” Smith said, via Jeff Fletcher of the Orange County Register. “This was a harrowing experience for me and my family, but I am ready to go and give it a test today. A lot of things have happened to me and my family over the last 72 hours and I’m extremely happy to be with you for today’s broadcast.”
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According to Fletcher, Smith’s car was rear-ended on a local street Saturday by another driver who had been traveling as fast as 90 mph after being pursued by local police.
Smith emerged from the wreck with only a thumb injury. But, according to Fletcher, the first officer to arrive at the accident scene told the 70-year-old broadcaster that he was “lucky to be alive.”
The 2026 season marks Smith’s 24th season with the Angels. He joined the team in 2002 after serving as the radio voice of the New York Yankees Triple-A affiliate Columbus Clippers for 19 seasons.
Smith was recognized three times by the Ohio Associated Press for his sportscasts and WBNS AM was named the Outstanding Sports Operation in Ohio six times by the Associated Press.
In February 2002, Smith made his on-screen debut as a broadcaster in the baseball movie A Little Inside, which aired on HBO and Showtime.
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