This past week, the Angels decided to part ways with announcers Steve Physioc and Rex Hudler. I had the pleasure of working alongside both during my days with the Halos, and I am sorry to hear that they are both seeking new teams and jobs.
My first year with the Angels was 1995 and Rex was a utility player on the club. I’ll never forget a conversation I had with him approximately one week into my big league broadcasting career. Hud took me aside one day and we chatted in the dugout. He is someone who is genuinely interested in people and he could sense that I was still feeling my way around the big league scene. I had spent about a decade broadcasting in the minor leagues, but my first year in the major leagues was still somewhat intimidating.
That day in the dugout, Rex told me to relax and have fun. He also told me that I should make more of an effort to talk to all of the guys and not be intimidated by them. It was great advice for someone still trying to fit in and it gave me the confidence to start conversations with guys like Tim Slmon, Chuck Finley and Mark Langston. I have always remembered what Rex did for me that day. He probably doesn’t recall that chat session, but I haven’t forgotten.
Rex took the news of his dismissal in typical “Wonder Dog” fashion. He thanked the Angels for providing him with a chance to be part of the organization. Steve and Rex will broadcast in the big leagues again. They both still have plenty to give to the business.