St. Louis Cardinals television play-by-play voice Dan McLaughlin will not return to the club in 2023.
The news was announced Thursday as a “mutual decision” by Bally Sports Midwest, McLaughlin, and the franchise.
“Dan McLaughlin will not return as the Cardinals television play-by-play announcer on Bally Sports Midwest,” the team and telecaster said in a joint statement. “Dan has been the voice of memorable Cardinals moments for 24 years. We thank him for his contributions to Cardinals baseball, to Cardinals fans, and for his many charitable efforts.”
The 48-year-old was charged with his third DWI earlier this month. According to police, concerned drivers called law enforcement officials about a white BMW driving erratically. One caller added it was driving into oncoming traffic. McLaughlin was booked on December 6th. He had previously been charged with the crime twice in a 13 month span in 2010 and 2011.
In his own statement, the longtime Cardinals voice thanked those he worked with while adding it was time to focus on himself.
“I have spent the last several days reflecting on my steps towards addressing my health and the well-being of my family and me,” he said. “I have come to the conclusion that my sole focus needs to be on my recovery, which I have started, and that of my wife and (four) children.
“As a result, I am stepping away from my duties at Bally Sports Midwest,” he added. “I thank all of the people of Bally for their support throughout the years and wish them the best. As I move forward, I please ask for your patience and your privacy. Thank you. God Bless.”
McLaughlin had already been suspended by Bally Sports Midwest from his duties announcing St. Louis University men’s basketball games shown on the network after his December 6th arrest.
