The baseball world is mourning the loss of John Sterling, the legendary voice of the New York Yankees, who died at the age of 87. Sterling, who spent 36 years as the team's primary radio play-by-play announcer, passed away peacefully at his home in Manhattan, according to his family.
Career Highlights
Sterling called an astounding 5,420 regular-season games and 23 postseason appearances for the Yankees. He was known for his signature home run calls, including 'It is high, it is far, it is gone!' and 'The Yankees win! Theeeee Yankees win!'
Born on July 4, 1938, in New York City, Sterling began his broadcasting career in the 1960s, calling games for the New York Nets of the ABA and the Atlanta Hawks of the NBA before joining the Yankees in 1989.
Awards and Recognition
Sterling received numerous accolades, including the Ford C. Frick Award from the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2016, honoring his contributions to baseball broadcasting. He was also inducted into the New York Sports Hall of Fame in 2019.
Yankees managing general partner Hal Steinbrenner said in a statement: 'John Sterling was a true legend in the broadcast booth and a beloved member of the Yankees family. His voice was synonymous with Yankees baseball for generations of fans. He will be deeply missed.'
Legacy
Sterling's distinctive style and catchphrases made him a fan favorite. He was known for his enthusiasm and ability to capture the excitement of the game. His partnership with color commentator Suzyn Waldman became iconic, with the duo calling games together for over 30 years.
Waldman expressed her grief, saying: 'John was not only my broadcast partner but my dear friend. We shared so many incredible moments together. I will miss him terribly.'
Sterling is survived by his wife, Jennifer, and their two children. The Yankees plan to honor his memory during the upcoming season.
