On October 3, 2004, Marc Griffin, a broadcaster for Montreal Expos baseball games, concluded the team’s final report with the phrase: “Let me remind you of the final score: 1969-2004.”
Today, he could conclude his report with “1940-2026.”
Jacques Doucet, Griffin’s longtime broadcast partner and mentor, known as the “Voice of the Expos” for his 33-year tenure calling the team’s games, passed away at the age of 86 on Thursday evening.
His daughter Martine confirmed his death on social media the following day. Although the cause was not disclosed, Doucet had disclosed in 2024 that he was battling Alzheimer’s disease.
Griffin expressed his deep sorrow in an interview with The Canadian Press, stating, “He was truly a giant, and his absence is immeasurable. His voice resonated through our lives for generations. He’s the one who instilled in me a love for baseball.”
“He was a man of integrity, directness, and vivid descriptions… He was a part of everyone’s household, so when people encountered him on the streets, they felt like he was their friend. He spoke to them every night about the Expos’ events. There was a special connection.”
Tributes poured in for Doucet, whose voice became synonymous with baseball for many generations of French-speaking fans in Quebec.
Denis Casavant, a fellow broadcaster who worked alongside Doucet at CKAC and TVA Sports, paid homage to his mentor, expressing gratitude for his guidance and influence on his career.
Alain Usereau, a baseball broadcaster for RDS, mentioned that Doucet’s impact on the Quebec baseball community was profound, with his voice being a cherished presence during the Expos era.
Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette also honored Doucet, stating that the province had lost “a voice that left its mark on generations of baseball fans,” acknowledging his lasting legacy in the sporting culture.
Jacques Doucet, born in Montreal on March 8, 1940, began his journey as a sports journalist in 1959 and later covered the Expos for La Presse when the team started in 1969.
Initially hesitant about broadcasting, Doucet eventually became the full-time French-language radio play-by-play announcer for the Expos in 1972 until the team relocated after the 2004 season.
Over his illustrious career, Doucet called over 5,500 Major League Baseball games, including Dennis Martinez’s perfect game in 1991, and provided French broadcasts for MLB playoffs and World Series games.
Despite the challenges he faced, such as the Expos’ departure and not receiving certain broadcasting awards, Doucet’s passion for baseball shone through, endearing him to fans and solidifying his place in baseball history.
After the Expos’ exit, Doucet found new opportunities, including calling games for the Quebec Capitales and later returning to MLB broadcasts with TVA Sports, where he continued to share his love for the game with audiences.
Honored with multiple awards, including inductions into various baseball halls of fame, Doucet’s contributions to French-language baseball broadcasting and literature have left a lasting impact on the sport and its fans.
In addition to his broadcasting achievements, Doucet authored several books, further enriching the baseball culture for francophone fans. His legacy as a beloved broadcaster and influential figure in Quebec’s baseball community will endure for years to come.