Former Yankees radio play-by-play voice JOHN STERLING, whose voice became the “soundtrack of spring, summer and quite a few Octobers to generations of Yankees fans,” has died at 87 years old, according to Don Burke of the N.Y. POST. Sterling, the radio voice for 36 seasons, was behind the microphone for five world championship teams and seven American League pennant winners. Sterling retired just after the 2024 season began, saying that he “was tired of traveling.” Sterling was largely “out of the public spotlight since leaving the booth.” Sterling told Yankees Spanish-language broadcaster RICKIE RICARDO that “he suffered a heart attack in January.” His “over-the-top imprimatur” immediately following the final out of Yankee victories was a “fan favorite as were his hokey salutations” celebrating Yankee home runs (N.Y. POST, 5/4).
GENERATIONAL VOICE: On Long Island, Neil Best wrote a generation (or two) of Yankees fans “lost a voice that had been shouting into their ears for as long as many could remember, leaving an echo they never will forget.” Sterling had a long career before becoming a radio play-by-play man for the Yankees in 1989, including with the Braves and Hawks in the 1980s, and in the 1970s with the Islanders and Nets. While the “excited home run calls were popular when paired with highlights, critics and fans who listened in real time frequently criticized Sterling for inaccurate or incomplete descriptions” (NEWSDAY, 5/4).
NOTABLE CAREER: THE ATHLETIC’s Brendan Kuty wrote Sterling’s run covered one of the Yankees’ “greatest eras.” He called every single game of Baseball HOFer DEREK JETER’s 20-year career and every pitch thrown by Baseball HOFer MARIANO RIVERA. He emceed the uniform number retirement ceremonies for former MLBers JORGE POSADA, ANDY PETTITTE, BERNIE WILLIAMS and JOE TORRE, among others. He was there when Yankees RF AARON JUDGE crushed his American League single-season record 62nd home run in 2022. Sterling featured a “distinctive baritone and drew adoration and criticism alike for his eccentricities and his unabashed Yankees fandom that resonated in his broadcasts.” Over that time, Sterling spent 10 seasons in the booth working alongside broadcast partner MICHAEL KAY. In 2005, SUZYN WALDMAN took over as his color analyst and remains in the position. The “best-friends dynamic between Sterling and Waldman became an instant obsession” for Yankees fans, who, in addition to hearing details about the game, would “get their inside jokes and references to Broadway musicals or old-time movies” (THE ATHLETIC, 5/4).
Reaction to Sterling’s passing poured in on social media:
- The Athletic’s Andrew Marchand: “John Sterling had a legendary career and life. I’m always hesitant to say there will never another. In this case, I think it is true. May he Rest in Peace.”
- Mets broadcaster Howie Rose: “I’m terribly sad to hear of the passing of John Sterling. He was truly one of a kind. A unique character who was blessed with pipes from above. Spoke to him a little over a month ago and although he didn’t sound great, this news still comes as a shock. RIP, old friend.”
- YES Network’s Jack Curry: “John Sterling was as distinct a talent and as unique a person as I’ve ever met. John loved baseball, absolutely loved it. And he loved being behind the mic even more. From my earliest days around the Yankees, he was always kind and affable. That voice will live on. RIP, John.”
- N.Y. Daily News’ Gary Phillips: “Getting to know John a bit the last few years, after listening to him growing up, has been one of the highlights of being on the beat. He was exactly who he was on the air in his day-to-day life. A true original, he will be missed.”
- Newsday’s David Lennon: “Truly one of a kind. Lovingly imitated, but never duplicated. As much a part of the #Yankees fabric as anyone who ever put on pinstripes. RIP, John.”
- MLB.com’s Bryan Hoch: “There are so many stories, so many wonderful memories. John Sterling was an absolute treasure. The soundtrack to so many seasons and a true original. There really never will be another like him.”
- SNY’s John Jastremski: “John Sterling was one of a kind. His style & presence was made for Broadway & calling Yankees games. His iconic calls will live forever. RIP.”
- Astros radio broadcaster Robert Ford: “Maybe the most unique & distinctive voices baseball has ever had. One of the best at calling the big moments. Grew up listening to John, & I’m glad I got to know him, & call him a colleague. RIP to one of the all-time greats.”
