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Broadcast Network(s): Fox Sports Detroit

Play-by-play: Mario Impemba

Analyst: Rod Allen

The Detroit Tigers broadcasting tandem of Mario Impemba and Rod Allen have probably one of the most challenging jobs in sports. They have the unenviable job(s) of trying to replicate the success of one of the greatest broadcasters of all time, Ernie Harwell.

You have to wonder whether Impemba or Allen ever ponder the fact that they are following in the footsteps of a man who was so good at his craft he was one famously traded for by Brooklyn Dodgers GM Branch Rickey.

Tough shoes to fill indeed!

Nevertheless, Impemba and Allen have done a good job filling Harwell's shoes. Both exhibit a good working knowledge of the game as well as in-booth chemistry.

Impemba is good at integrating statistical analysis into his play-by-play work. He is also adept of providing viewers with what they cannot see such as the current vibe permeating the crowd during a specific point of the game.

Allen is a good complement to Impemba as he mixes both historical analysis as well a bit of humor. He often will bring in a specific example from a discussion he has had with a Tiger player or member of the coaching staff. This seems to work really well during the broadcast.

If you were going to rate the Impemba/Allen tandem, you would have to place them close to the top of the list. They have done an admirable job following in the footsteps of Harwell.