YES Network’s Michael Kay bristles at Yankees’ Opening Day broadcast change

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Michael Kay’s remarkable 37-year streak covering Yankees’ Opening Day games may come to an end as ESPN holds exclusive broadcasting rights for the team’s 2025 season opener against the Milwaukee Brewers. Michael Kay, who began his Yankees tenure as a New York Post sportswriter in 1987 before transitioning to radio in 1992 and later becoming the voice of YES Network in 2002, reportedly expressed deep disappointment upon learning of the development.

Michael Kay first addressed the matter during a live broadcast of his ESPN New York/YES Network radio show last week. Sources indicate he was concerned about the exclusivity of ESPN’s deal and the potential to miss his first Opening Day broadcast in nearly four decades. After confirming the exclusivity, Michael Kay mentioned possibly attending the game as a fan with his young son, Charlie, if unable to work the broadcast.

“If it’s exclusive [to ESPN] I’ll weep,” Michael Kay said. “I’m just told by someone in the know — 100 percent exclusive. Why? Why can’t ESPN do it around the country and let YES have the local [call]?”

He also reportedly questioned the necessity of exclusive national coverage, proposing the idea of a simultaneous local broadcast for Yankees fans. His co-host, Don La Greca, countered by suggesting ESPN’s decision likely wasn’t influenced by individual broadcasters. Meanwhile, co-host Peter Rosenberg jokingly proposed the Yankees voice explore a role on ESPN’s secondary broadcast team, likening it to the network’s alternate Monday Night Football coverage.

There are rumors that Michael Kay may explore alternative roles for the Opening Day telecast, such as a sideline reporter or radio analyst, to maintain his involvement. The situation underscores the shifting dynamics in sports media rights, which are increasingly reshaping broadcasting traditions and iconic careers.

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