Legendary Yankees broadcaster John Sterling has passed away at the age of 87. WFAN’s Boomer & Gio show made the announcement early Monday morning.
What We Know: Sterling’s passing comes just two years after retiring from broadcasting New York Yankees baseball games. He spent 36 seasons as the Yankees’ radio play-by-play voice — one of the longest tenures in baseball broadcasting history. His streak of 5,060 consecutive regular-season games called remains a remarkable feat. Sterling retired permanently following New York’s 2024 playoff run.
What They Said: WFAN’s Gregg Giannotti: “Definitely brutal news this morning. John [Sterling] was as good as it gets. He entertained us for so many years. We had so much fun with him. He was everything that a play by play man should be. His love for his audience, the sport, the Yankees, and delivering it in a way that was truly his own.”
WFAN’s Boomer Esiason: “He loved the sport, and loved the Yankees. He loved it so much that he lasted as long as he did. There are many times where he could have retired and he didn’t. He stayed right there. I’ll tell you, there were moments where he was just amazing.”
What Remains Unclear: While official cause of Sterling’s passing is yet to be known, Sterling has faced multiple health challenges in recent years. This included a heart attack in January, and a blood infection in 2020. Frequent travel difficulties also contributed to his 2024 retirement decision.
What It Means: Sterling’s career stands as one of sports radio’s most enduring legacies. Beyond baseball, he called games for the Nets, Islanders, Braves, and Hawks. Furthermore, his induction into the New York State Broadcasters Hall of Fame underscores his lasting impact.
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John Mamola is Barrett Media’s sports editor and daily sports columnist. He brings over two decades of experience (Chicago, Tampa/St Petersburg) in the broadcast industry with expertise in brand management, sales, promotions, producing, imaging, hosting, talent coaching, talent development, web development, social media strategy and design, video production, creative writing, partnership building, communication/networking with a long track record of growth and success. He is a five-time recognized top 20 program director in a major market via Barrett Medi’s Top 20 series and has been honored internally multiple times as station/brand of the year (Tampa, FL) and employee of the month (Tampa, FL) by iHeartMedia. Connect with John by email at John@BarrettMedia.com.
