Rodger Brulotte, Beloved Voice of Quebec Baseball, Passes Away at Age 79
The sports world in Quebec is mourning the loss of a legendary figure. Rodger Brulotte, the cherished French-language voice of baseball whose career spanned over five decades, has died at the age of 79. His passing marks the end of an era for fans who grew up listening to his passionate broadcasts.
A Signature Call and a Lasting Legacy
Brulotte was renowned for his signature home-run call, "Bonsoir, elle est partie!" which translates to "Good evening, it's gone!" This phrase became etched in the collective memory of Quebec sports fans. He remained active in broadcasting until recently, calling Major League Baseball games in French on TVA Sports as recently as last summer.
The Montreal-born broadcaster's health had been in decline. He underwent surgery in September to remove a cancerous tumour from his back, but the disease returned aggressively in recent months.
From Expos Scout to Media Icon
Brulotte's deep connection to baseball began in 1969 when he started working for the Montreal Expos as a scout. His role with the club expanded, and he later became an integral part of the public relations and marketing team. It was during this time that he helped create the Expos' beloved mascot, "Youppi!"
His charismatic personality naturally led to a prolific media career. Brulotte called Expos and MLB games on radio station CKAC alongside legendary play-by-play announcer Jacques Doucet, and later on television networks RDS and TVA Sports. For many years, he also shared his insights as a columnist for the Journal de Montréal.
Tributes from the Sports Community
News of his death prompted an outpouring of condolences from across Quebec and the baseball world.
Pierre Karl Peladeau, president and CEO of Quebecor, released a statement praising Brulotte's authenticity and kindness. "Rodger's authenticity and kindness made him a beloved figure in the hearts of Quebecers," Peladeau said. "He brought passion to his work and a rare ability to connect with people... He will be profoundly missed."
The Toronto Blue Jays, whose games Brulotte called for TVA Sports since 2011, posted on social media: "Rodger's impact on the sport and the Montreal Expos will be remembered forever. He will be missed dearly."
Hall of Fame Expos left-fielder Tim Raines and Quebec Premier Francois Legault were among those who shared their sympathies. Premier Legault specifically recalled the joy of listening to Brulotte's iconic home-run call.
The Montreal Canadiens, who adopted the Youppi! mascot after the Expos relocated in 2004, called Brulotte a "larger-than-life character" who touched the hearts of multiple generations with his authentic delivery.
A Builder Beyond the Broadcast Booth
Brulotte's contributions extended far beyond the microphone. He was a central figure in efforts to bring Major League Baseball back to Montreal, working closely with former mayor Denis Coderre. Coderre remembered him as an inspiration and an unwavering ally.
His dedication to developing the sport was evident in his role as president of the Ligue de baseball junior élite du Québec for over ten years. His work was recognized with inductions into the Quebec Baseball Hall of Fame in 2014 and the receipt of the Jacques-Beauchamp Tribute Award from Sports Quebec in 2024.
Maxime Lamarche, executive director of Baseball Quebec, highlighted Brulotte's character: "Rodger had a huge heart, and he used it to serve others without hesitation. His generosity touched generations of players, coaches and volunteers. We will remember him as a unifying and deeply human individual."
Rodger Brulotte is survived by his wife, Pascale Vallée. His voice, his passion, and his indelible mark on Quebec's sports culture will be remembered for years to come.
