Yankees’ John Sterling, successor Dave Sims fall short of Cooperstown honor

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The Hall of Fame’s Ford C. Frick Award is one of baseball’s highest honors, celebrating broadcasters who have made lasting contributions to the game. Yet iconic Yankees voice John Sterling, his successor Dave Sims, and Mets’ booth legend Gary Cohen—found themselves just short of Cooperstown’s honor, sparking conversation about their incredible legacies and the exclusivity of the Hall of Fame process.

The award, a prestigious accolade recognizing excellence in baseball broadcasting, announced the Guardians’ Tom Hamilton as the winner making him the chosen one for July Cooperstown induction. The Baseball Hall of Fame narrowed its prestigious broadcasting honor to a distinguished group of sports voices, featuring luminaries like Skip Caray, Rene Cardenas, Jacques Doucet, Ernie Johnson Sr., Mike Krukow, and Duane Kuiper.

Ultimately, Tom Hamilton emerged victorious, clinching the Ford C. Frick Award after an extraordinary 35-year tenure in the Cleveland Guardians’ radio broadcast booth. Alongside television analyst Rick Manning, Hamilton stands as the longest-serving broadcaster in the organization’s storied history.

Josh Rawitch, president of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, praised Hamilton’s selection, highlighting his “deeply insightful play-by-play commentary and emotionally charged narration of the franchise’s most memorable moments.” Unlike broadcasters who pursued opportunities in media metropolises like New York, Hamilton remained steadfastly committed to the Midwestern baseball landscape throughout his remarkable career.

The announcement, made public on Wednesday, celebrates Hamilton’s dedication to capturing the essence of baseball through his distinctive vocal style and unwavering passion for the game.

Yankees’ legendary voice John Sterling misses the bus

For more than three decades, John Sterling has been synonymous with New York Yankees baseball. Known for his exuberant style and signature home run calls like “It is high, it is far, it is gone!” Sterling has provided the soundtrack to countless Yankees moments. From Derek Jeter’s iconic plays to Aaron Judge’s record-setting seasons, his voice has been a constant for Yankees fans.

Sterling’s dedication to the Yankees is unparalleled, having called over 5,000 consecutive games before a health issue ended his streak in 2019. His longevity and passion have made him a beloved figure in Yankees lore. Despite occasional critiques of his dramatic delivery, Sterling’s flair has cemented him as one of baseball’s most recognizable broadcasters. He took formal retirement in April 2024.

The Hall of Fame’s decision not to honor Sterling this year leaves a notable gap in recognizing the voices that have shaped the sport. Fans took to social media to express their support, with one writing, “Sterling has been the heartbeat of Yankees baseball for decades—he’s more than deserving of a Hall of Fame nod.”

Sterling’s successor Dave Sims too sidelined

Dave Sims, the charismatic play-by-play announcer for the Seattle Mariners, also fell short of receiving the Frick Award this year. Sims has been calling Mariners games since 2007, delivering his commentary with a mix of wit, insight, and undeniable enthusiasm. His career spans decades, and he remains one of the few Black broadcasters in Major League Baseball, breaking barriers and paving the way for greater diversity in the sport.

He joined the Yankees booth after the 2024 season. Sims’ broadcasting resume is rich with highlights. From narrating Félix Hernández’s historic perfect game in 2012 to chronicling the rise of Mariners stars like Julio Rodríguez, his voice has been integral to the team’s journey. Known for his ability to capture the excitement of pivotal moments, Sims has become a respected figure both in Seattle and across MLB.

Fans and colleagues alike expressed disappointment over Sims’ omission, with many emphasizing his trailblazing role in the industry. “Dave Sims is a voice of inspiration and excellence in broadcasting—he deserves his place in Cooperstown,” one supporter tweeted.

Mets’ Gary Cohen remains outside

Gary Cohen, the celebrated voice of the New York Mets, has long been admired for his articulate play-by-play commentary and encyclopedic knowledge of the game. Since 1989, Cohen has been a staple for Mets fans, first on the radio and later transitioning to television with SportsNet New York (SNY) in 2006. His vibrant storytelling, witty humor, and deep understanding of baseball have made him one of the most respected broadcasters in the sport.

Cohen’s ability to connect with fans extends beyond the broadcast booth. Whether calling the iconic moments of the Mets’ storied past or managing to find levity during challenging seasons, Cohen’s passion resonates deeply. His partnership with former Mets players Keith Hernandez and Ron Darling has become a hallmark of SNY broadcasts, often regarded as one of the best booths in Major League Baseball. Despite his impeccable credentials, Cohen’s omission from the Hall of Fame conversation this year leaves Mets fans and his supporters eagerly anticipating a future recognition.

Yankees fans react to Sterling’s exclusion

News of Sterling and Sims falling short of the Hall of Fame sparked widespread reactions from fans. Yankees supporters rallied behind Sterling, praising his iconic calls and dedication. Mariners fans echoed similar sentiments for Sims, highlighting his role as a trailblazer and his impact on the team’s history.

“John Sterling and Dave Sims are already Hall of Famers in the hearts of fans,” one social media post read. The overwhelming support for both broadcasters serves as a testament to their influence and the respect they’ve earned throughout their careers.

The Frick Award, which annually celebrates broadcasters who have made significant contributions to baseball, focuses on different categories each year. For 2024, the emphasis was on “Team-Specific Broadcasters,” pitting Sterling, Sims, and other legendary voices against each other in a highly competitive field. Ultimately, only one nominee could be selected, leaving many deserving candidates without the honor.

While the selection process highlights the depth of talent in baseball broadcasting, it also underscores the challenge of recognizing all contributors. The omission of Sterling and Sims speaks to the difficulty of standing out in a crowded field of legends.

While Sterling and Sims didn’t earn the Frick Award this year, their legacies remain intact. Both continue to be integral parts of the baseball community. Sterling’s presence in the Yankees’ booth and Sims’ voice in Mariners broadcasts ensure that fans will continue to enjoy their talents for years to come.

The Hall of Fame process allows for new nominees annually, meaning Sterling and Sims will have additional opportunities to be recognized. Given their contributions to the game, it’s likely only a matter of time before both broadcasters receive the honor they richly deserve.

The Hall of Fame’s decision not to induct John Sterling and Dave Sims this year doesn’t diminish their remarkable achievements in baseball broadcasting. Both have shaped the sport with their unique styles, unwavering dedication, and ability to connect with fans. Their omission from Cooperstown in 2024 serves as a reminder of the competitive nature of the Ford C. Frick Award but also leaves room for optimism about future recognition.

Sterling and Sims are more than just broadcasters; they are storytellers, historians, and the voices behind unforgettable moments in baseball history. While the Hall of Fame awaits, their legacy continues to resonate with fans who see them as Hall of Famers in every sense of the word.

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