John Sterling, legendary Yankees voice, dead at 87
Key Points:
- John Sterling, the beloved Yankees radio play-by-play announcer for 36 seasons, has died at age 87, having broadcast 5,060 consecutive games during his career.
- Sterling was the voice behind five Yankees World Series championships and seven American League pennants, with a broadcasting career spanning eight decades starting in the late 1950s.
- Known for his distinctive catchphrases like “Ballgame over. Yankees win. Thuuuuugh Yankees win” and creative home run calls, Sterling's style was both adored by fans and criticized by some for its affectations.
- Despite criticism, Sterling remained unapologetically himself, famously wearing a jacket and tie to every game and embracing his unique broadcasting shtick.
- Sterling’s dedication was remarkable, missing only a few games in his entire Yankees tenure due to personal loss or health issues, exemplifying his commitment to the team and its fans.