John Sterling, the long-time radio announcer for the New York Yankees, is set to make a comeback to the broadcast booth for the team’s playoff games in October. Sterling, 86, had announced his retirement in April due to feeling he lacked the strength and stamina to continue. He had been calling Yankees games since 1989, totaling 5,420 regular-season and 211 playoff games.
According to The Athletic’s Andrew Marchand, Sterling will be back to call playoff games alongside his broadcast partner Suzyn Waldman. Sterling expressed his excitement to work with Waldman again, stating that he missed their partnership. He also mentioned that he would be returning to the booth during the Yankees’ final home stand of the season.
During Sterling’s absence, Justin Shackil, Rickie Ricardo, and Emmanuel Berbari took over the radio play-by-play duties for the Yankees. Sterling shared that he has been keeping busy watching and listening to Yankees games and that he plans to stay involved in sports even after his short return for the playoffs.
A heartwarming moment came when Sterling reunited with Michael Kay in the YES Network television booth shortly after his retirement announcement. When asked if he would regret not being able to call games later in the season, Sterling expressed that he was exhausted and had emptied his tank.
It is noted that Sterling’s return for the playoffs is expected to be temporary and will not extend into the 2025 season. The Yankees honored Sterling following his retirement announcement, showcasing the impact he had during his tenure as the team’s radio announcer.