A LEGEND GOES SILENT: Yankees Voice John Sterling Retiring Immediately Due To Health Concerns

John Sterling, the iconic voice behind the Yankees’ play-by-play, has announced his retirement, marking the end of an era. The Yankees confirmed his immediate retirement, with plans for a ceremony at Yankee Stadium to honor his legendary career.

Citing health concerns, Sterling, 85, made the decision to retire, as reported by The Athletic. Reflecting on his career, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to fulfill his childhood dream of broadcasting for 64 years, including 36 years with the Yankees. He conveyed his happiness and anticipation for the upcoming ceremony on Saturday.

Despite offers from the Yankees to continue in a reduced capacity, Sterling has opted for a complete departure. Health issues have already led him to limit his game coverage in recent years, with Justin Shackil, 37, and Emmanuel Berbari, 24, stepping in as his successors on WFAN.

WFAN acknowledged Sterling’s irreplaceable contribution to Yankees radio, noting his distinctive voice, wit, and humor that have resonated with generations of fans. They paid tribute to his colorful personality, which became synonymous with Yankees baseball and New York City radio.

Since 1989, Sterling has been synonymous with Yankees broadcasts, a period that saw the team clinch five World Series titles. His partnership with Suzyn Waldman since 2005 has been a staple of Yankees radio, complementing Michael Kay’s TV play-by-play role on the YES Network.

Sterling’s trademark calls, including “It is high, it is far, it is gone!” for home runs and “Yankees win — the Yankees win” for victories, have become ingrained in the memories of fans. The Yankees praised his ability to captivate audiences with his distinctive voice and passion for the game.

In a recent interview with The Athletic, Sterling hinted at his impending retirement, citing fatigue from travel despite his enduring love for the game. His 64-year career spanned various sports, starting with the Baltimore Bullets in 1970 before his tenure with the Yankees.

Throughout his career, Sterling has remained a beloved figure among Yankees faithful, with many reluctant to see him hang up the microphone. His journey, which included stints with teams like the Nets, Islanders, Braves, and Hawks, has left an indelible mark on the world of sports broadcasting.

{Matzav.com}