Rodger Brulotte, a beloved broadcaster known for his deep association with baseball in Quebec, passed away at the age of 79. He had been hospitalized for several days due to complications following surgery. Brulotte underwent an operation for a cancerous tumor on his sixth dorsal vertebra in September 2025. After a brief recovery, he was hospitalized again in October due to a bacterial infection.
Journey Through Baseball
Born in 1949, Brulotte made his mark on the baseball scene, particularly with the Montreal Expos. He began his career during the team’s inaugural season in 1969 at just 22 years old. Over the years, he became a cornerstone of the Expos organization, notably creating the iconic mascot Youppi! in 1979.
- 1969: Began his career with the Montreal Expos.
- 1979: Created the mascot Youppi!
- 2004: Expos ceased operations, yet Brulotte’s legacy endures.
Initially hired as a scout in Quebec, Brulotte later moved into public relations, sales, and marketing. However, he is best remembered for his colorful commentary. His catchphrase “Bonsoir, elle est partie!” became a fan favorite whenever the Expos hit a home run.
Impact and Contributions
Brulotte transitioned into media, starting as a radio host at CKAC in 1983 alongside Jacques Doucet. He later moved to television at RDS in 1990, continuing until the Expos’ departure. In 2011, he took on the role of analyst for Toronto Blue Jays games on TVA Sports.
Throughout his career, Brulotte dedicated himself to charitable initiatives, often emphasizing the importance of action over mere words of thanks. He earned several accolades, including the Jack Graney Award in 2013 for his contributions to sports media in Canada. In November 2024, he received the Jacques-Beauchamp Tribute from Sports Quebec, recognizing his exceptional contributions to baseball.
A Lasting Legacy
In May 2025, Brulotte was honored as Citizen of Honor by former Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante, solidifying his connection to the city where he was born. His passion for baseball in Quebec made him a respected figure across the country.
Brulotte’s influence extended beyond commentary; he was involved in grassroots initiatives, ensuring that baseball remains a cherished sport among youth in Quebec. His legacy will continue to resonate with baseball fans, and his famous farewell line will be remembered: “Bonsoir, il est parti.”
