John Sterling, the beloved radio voice of the New York Yankees for 36 seasons, has died at the age of 87. Sterling, who called more than 5,000 Yankees games from 1989 through 2024, was known for his distinctive home run calls, including 'It is high, it is far, it is gone!' and personalized phrases for each player.
A Legendary Career
Sterling began his broadcasting career in the 1960s, working for various radio stations and sports teams before joining the Yankees in 1989. He became a fixture in the booth, pairing with analysts like Michael Kay and Suzyn Waldman. His energetic style and memorable catchphrases made him a fan favorite.
Impact on Baseball
Sterling's calls were synonymous with Yankees baseball for generations. He called 10 World Series championships and countless historic moments, including Derek Jeter's 3,000th hit and Mariano Rivera's final game. In 2024, he announced his retirement, citing health concerns.
Yankees managing general partner Hal Steinbrenner said, 'John was the voice of summer for millions of Yankees fans. His passion and love for the game were unmatched.' Sterling is survived by his wife and two children.
