Legendary Yankees broadcaster John Sterling made a surprise return to the radio booth for the team’s playoff run, capping it off with his signature call as the Yankees secured a 3-1 win over the Kansas City Royals to clinch a spot in the American League Championship Series (ALCS) on Thursday night.
Sterling, who retired earlier this year, delivered his iconic “Yankees win! The Yankees win!” after Aaron Judge snagged the final out in center field, a call that has long been synonymous with Yankees victories. Fans welcomed the familiar voice, a fixture of Yankees broadcasts for decades, as he lent his unmistakable energy to another postseason run.
“A high fly to center this is it,” the iconic Yankees voice announced. “[Aaron] Judge is there. He makes the catch! Ballgame over! American League Division Series over! Yankees win! The Yankees win!”
Sterling was afraid to return to Yankees booth
In an interview with The Post, Sterling acknowledged that the demands of travel had played a large role in his decision to step away from regular broadcasting duties. However, with a more manageable travel schedule during the playoffs, he felt comfortable returning for this critical stretch.
“It’s a little frightening [being back], actually,” the legendary sportscaster said. “I didn’t want to do this every day. Chris [Olivero] asked me, ‘How are you traveling [to the playoff games], are you OK with that? I said, ‘In the playoffs, the most you go away for is three games.’ I think I’m ready. I’ll see.”
The Yankees’ triumph secured their second ALCS appearance in three years, something that was not lost on team captain Aaron Judge. Speaking to TNT after the game, Judge reflected on how the Yankees’ 2023 season had ended in disappointment in Kansas City, missing the playoffs entirely. He highlighted the team’s determination to ensure they didn’t face the same fate this year.
The ALCS kicks off Monday at Yankee Stadium, and Sterling is expected to remain in the booth for the remainder of the Yankees’ playoff run. His return has been met with enthusiasm from fans, many of whom associate his voice with some of the most memorable moments in Yankees history.
As Sterling enjoys his postseason stint, WFAN, the Yankees’ radio partner, is preparing to select his permanent replacement for next season. Seattle Mariners broadcaster Dave Sims is reportedly one of the finalists, signaling that while Sterling’s presence is a welcome return for now, WFAN is planning for its future without him as a regular fixture in the booth.
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