Event Overview
John Sterling the legendary radio broadcaster for the New York Yankees died on May 4 at the age of 87. As one of the most recognizable voices in Major League Baseball history Sterling spent 36 seasons in the Yankees broadcast booth and his iconic home run calls became the shared memory of generations of baseball fans.
Details
Sterling served as the Yankees radio broadcaster starting in 1989 and witnessed the team dominant eras in the 1990s and 2000s including five World Series championships. He was famous for his signature home run announcements calling each player name with a distinctive elongated drawl such as Robinson Cano home run. This broadcasting style was beloved by fans and became an integral part of baseball culture.
Sterling career began with the Atlanta Braves before he spent time with the New Jersey Nets and ultimately found his true home with the Yankees. Over 36 years he called more than 5,000 games making him one of the longest-tenured team broadcasters in American sports history.
Reactions and Legacy
Following news of his passing the baseball world expressed widespread condolences. The Yankees official statement described him as an indispensable part of franchise history. ESPN called him one of the greatest voices in baseball. Numerous former and current players paid tribute on social media while fans gathered outside Yankee Stadium to lay flowers and jerseys in memory of the voice that accompanied them through countless classic moments.
Sources: The New York Times, ESPN, USA Today