Yankees icon John Sterling passes away just two years after retirement

As the New York Yankees endure a hot streak, they were abruptly brought back down to earth on Monday morning after learning of legendary broadcaster John Sterling's passing. The 87-year-old, just two years after retiring, is no longer with us.

A couple months ago, Sterling revealed he suffered a heart attack but was doing well, only dealing with some "weight" in his legs. The details surrounding his death have not yet been revealed, so it's unclear if it was anything related to the February health episode. We hope to share more information when it's made available.

Sterling began calling Yankees games on the radio in 1989 up until his retirement in early 2024. He returned later in 2024 to be part of the team's World Series run at the tail end of the year, but his abrupt decision to step away from the team in April had left many fans wondering if something was wrong.

One of the most jovial (yet blunt) broadcasters in the sport, Sterling will go down as one of the best. His streak of 5,060 games from 1989-2019 is among one of the greatest achievements in the industry.

"The Voice of the Yankees", as he'll be known likely for the remainder of this lifetime, called over a full season's worth of playoff games and finished with 5,631 when all was said and done. He touched multiple generations of Yankees fans with his smooth delivery, endearing "Yankees Win!" sign off, and amusing home run calls/catchphrases for all of the team's most important players.

Legendary Yankees broadcaster John Sterling passes away at 87 but leaves behind amazing legacy

Sterling's 36-year career spanned throughout one of the greatest runs in the franchise's history. The dynasty years from the mid-1990s to early-2000s were the organization's best stretch since the late-1950s to early-1960s. For a franchise rich with history and 27 championships on its mantle, Sterling made his mark on the most well-known dominant showing in the modern era.

He called eight World Series in total from 1996-2024, with his final broadcast coming during the disastrous Game 5 against the Dodgers that saw the Yankees lose the Fall Classic on their home turf. The next season, he was replaced by Mariners play-by-play broadcaster Dave Sims.

It's unfortunate that Sterling will be recognized posthumously for his incredible work. He was nominated for the prestigious Ford C. Frick Award in 2024 and 2025, but didn't earn the honors. Though he was inducted into the New York State Broadcasters Hall of Fame a decade ago, he's yet to be enshrined by the greater baseball community for one of the most impressive careers of all time.

Rest in peace to one of the greats, and expect a warm tribute from the Yankees before Monday night's game against the Orioles.

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