Last Updated on May 22, 2023 by Inna Zeyger
Within the vast realm of sports broadcasting, John Sterling ranks among a select few whose voice draws quality of instant recognition. An illustrious radio voice for the New York Yankees, he stands as a luminary whose distinct style, unforgettable catchphrases, and unwavering ardor have propelled him to the heights of adoration among Yankees enthusiasts.
Throughout an illustrious span of more than three decades, John Sterling has assumed the mantle of the Yankees’ radio play-by-play announcer, captivating listeners with his vivid portrayals and exhilarating proclamations. This article ventures into the intricate tapestry of John Sterling’s life and career, embarking on an exploration of his profound impact on the Yankees and the enduring legacy he has forged as the indelible voice resounding through their airwaves.
From the remarkable dawn of 1989, John Sterling embarked on an extraordinary journey, announcing an astounding sequence of 5,060 consecutive New York Yankees games. His dedication and passion resonated through the airwaves continue to captivate fans and etch his name in the annals of baseball history. However, even the most indomitable spirits require respite, and in July 2019, John Sterling momentarily stepped away, taking a brief hiatus spanning four games. However, a temporary intermission couldn’t overshadow his unwavering commitment to baseball, and John Sterling returned after four games with renewed vigor and resumed his melodious narration of Yankees’ triumphs and trials.
The early life of John Sterling
John Sterling, born on July 4, 1938, in New York City, developed a passion for sports from a young age. He attended the Hebrew Institute of the Bronx and later graduated from New York University. His career in broadcasting began during the 1960s when he worked as a reporter and anchor for various radio stations across the country. While covering sports like basketball and football, John Sterling ultimately discovered his true calling in baseball.
His father worked as an advertising executive. After briefly attending Moravian College, Boston University, and the Columbia University School of General Studies, Sterling left school to embark on his radio career at a small station in Wellsville, New York. Currently residing in Edgewater, New Jersey, he went through a divorce in 2008 after being married to his wife, Jennifer, for 12 years. Among his four children are a set of triplets born in 2000. In January 2015, a fire engulfed his house at Edgewater.
On September 1, 2021, following his remote broadcast of a Yankees game at Yankee Stadium, John Sterling encountered a challenging situation. Heavy flooding caused by Hurricane Ida left him stranded in his car, approximately a mile away from his home in Edgewater. Fortunately, fellow Edgewater resident and Spanish-language Yankees broadcaster Rickie Ricardo came to the rescue, using his Jeep Cherokee to save Sterling from the predicament.
Like a wandering comet traversing the celestial expanse, John Sterling’s foray into the realm of broadcasting ignited during the vibrant tapestry of the 1960s. He traversed the radio waves as a tireless chronicler, lending his voice as a reporter and anchor to numerous stations scattered across the vast tapestry of the nation. Through this immersive expedition, he embraced countless sports, enthralling audiences with his commentary spanning the realms of basketball, football, and beyond. Yet, destiny awaited with patience, orchestrating a harmonious convergence that would lead John Sterling to his true vocation – the captivating world of baseball.
The beginning of his career
John Sterling’s broadcasting journey took him on an extraordinary path, filled with diverse experiences. His career ignited in Baltimore, where he assumed the role of play-by-play announcer for the Baltimore Bullets during the 1970-71 NBA season. Simultaneously, he showcased his talent as a play-by-play commentator for Morgan State University football, a role he thrived in from 1971 to 1978.
His captivating voice soon resonated in the bustling metropolis of New York bringing him fame. In 1971, John Sterling joined as a talk show host on WMCA, marking his entry into the city’s broadcasting scene. Subsequently, he lent his vocal prowess to an array of sports teams, including the WHA’s New York Raiders, the WFL’s New York Stars, the NHL’s New York Islanders (paired with Bob Lawrence), and the ABA/NBA’s New York/New Jersey Nets (primarily paired with Mike DeTomasso). John Sterling also made his mark with the Yankees, serving as the pre-game host on WMCA and WINS radio, as well as co-hosting cable segments alongside Mel Allen.
From 1975 to 1980, John Sterling worked for WMCA, WVNJ, WOR-TV, and SportsChannel New York covering the NBA. During this period, he also continued hosting his talk program on WMCA until 1978. After his initial tenure in New York, Sterling ventured to Atlanta, spending nine years as a host for a sports call-in show on WSB radio. He also covered the Braves (1982-1987) and the Hawks (1981-1989) for Turner Sports, further solidifying his presence in the sports broadcasting realm.
The Voice of the Yankees
Sterling embarked on a remarkable journey with the Yankees, beginning in the late 1989 when he joined WABC radio as the television play-by-play announcer. His vibrant and distinctive broadcasting style quickly captured the hearts of Yankees fans and garnered attention from the team’s management. By 1990, Sterling fully transitioned to the radio booth, where he discovered his true calling and etched his name into the storied history of the Yankees.
Since then, Sterling has remained a steadfast presence with the Yankees, currently calling games on WFAN radio and its affiliates as part of the esteemed New York Yankees Radio Network. Since 2005, he has been paired with the talented Suzyn Waldman, forming a memorable broadcasting duo. Throughout his career, Sterling has worked alongside several announcing partners, including Jay Johnstone (1989-1990), Joe Angel (1991), Michael Kay (1992-2001), and Charley Steiner (2002-2004). In 2013, the Yankees announced their move to WFAN for a decade, ensuring Sterling’s continued involvement. His contract extends through the 2022 season.
John Sterling’s radio broadcasts have become an integral part of the Yankees’ identity. His distinctive style combines poetic descriptions, spirited calls, and a hint of showmanship that sets him apart from his peers. With a gift for bringing the game to life through his words, Sterling paints vivid images for listeners who rely solely on the radio for their baseball experience. His infectious energy and unwavering optimism have endeared him to Yankees fans of all ages, making him a beloved voice synonymous with the team.
He took part in “Rivalry in the Booth,” a promotion event on September 20, 2018. John Sterling and Red Sox announcer Joe Castiglione swapped their roles for their respective teams adding a unique twist to the storied Yankees-Red Sox rivalry. Additionally, Sterling had the honor of calling the first MLB games played in Europe from June 29-30, 2019, further solidifying his place in baseball history.
From July 4, 2019, to July 7, 2019, he took the first break away from the microphone in his life.
Following his long-standing tenure, on October 18, 2021, John Sterling solidified his commitment to WFAN by signing a new contract for the year 2022. However, this contract came with a notable adjustment, as there was a potential for a reduced schedule. Taking effect on June 6, 2022, John Sterling announced his transition to a reduced workload during the second half of the MLB season. Primarily, this meant stepping back from traveling to road games outside of the northeastern United States. Nevertheless, he would continue to cover road trips to Fenway Park, Citi Field, and Oriole Park at Camden Yards, maintaining a connection with some iconic ballparks.
Beyond his radio work, John Sterling’s versatility shines through in various other roles. He serves as the host of the YES Network’s Yankeeography series, which delves into the biographies of notable New York Yankees players. The quality of this series has earned Sterling two Emmy Awards, further highlighting his exceptional storytelling abilities. Additionally, he takes charge of the introductions and recaps for Yankees Classics, a program that revisits memorable games from the team’s history. Moreover, John Sterling graces WCBS newscasts with his nightly commentary feature called “Sterling on Sports,” where he shares his insights and opinions on recent sporting events or news.
John Sterling’s partnership with former broadcasting colleague Michael Kay has been a fruitful one, especially in their representation of the Yankees. Together, they have assumed announcing duties for the annual Yankees’ Old-Timers’ Day and played significant roles in various celebratory events. Their emceeing talents were showcased during the “Key to the City” ceremonies following the Yankees’ World Series victories in 1996, 1998, 1999, 2000, and 2009.
The duo also presided over major Yankee occasions, such as the 2000 ticker-tape parade held in honor of the team’s World Series triumph. Sterling has additionally been the master of ceremonies for significant Yankees pre-game ceremonies, including the retirement of numbers worn by Jorge Posada, Andy Pettitte, Bernie Williams, Joe Torre, Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera, and the commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the Yankees’ 1996 World Series victory in 2016. This deep-rooted association with the Yankees has earned John Sterling the endearing nickname “Pa Pinstripe” from New York Daily News writer Bob Raissman.
In 2022, John Sterling made the decision to reduce his workload, citing weariness from extensive road trips as a contributing factor. This adjustment allowed him to rejuvenate and find a balance that better suited his needs.
Catchphrases and Signature Calls
John Sterling’s broadcasting style is a tapestry of distinctive catchphrases and trademark utterances. Every time a Yankees player strides toward the plate, his vibrant narration seizes the ears of his listeners. Be it his renowned proclamation of triumph, “The Yankees emerge victorious! Thhhhhhheeeee Yankees emerge victorious!” or his iconic home run exclamation, “Up high it soars! Beyond the distance, it sails! Into the realms of gone!” John Sterling’s vocal presence has become an inseparable facet of the Yankees’ game-day ambiance.
His remarkable talent for infusing exhilaration and suspense into his broadcasts bestows an additional layer of theatricality and sentiment upon each unfolding play. This was on full display when he called the first homerun of Anthony Volpe.
A Durable Legacy
John Sterling stands out among sportscasters not only due to his enduring tenure but also because of his unyielding devotion to the Yankees and their loyal supporters. His extraordinary streak of unbroken game calls, spanning from April 5, 1989, to May 2019, serves as a resounding testament to his unwavering dedication and fervor. This remarkable accomplishment underscores John Sterling’s unparalleled professionalism and profound affection for the game.
John Sterling’s Impact Beyond the Booth
Although John Sterling’s reputation primarily rests on his role as the Yankees’ radio voice, his sphere of influence transcends the confines of the broadcasting booth. His philanthropic endeavors have left an indelible mark, as he actively participates in various charitable initiatives, lending support to causes ranging from cancer research to children’s education. John Sterling’s unwavering commitment to effecting positive change within the community not only strengthens his standing as a respected figure but also underscores his dedication to making a lasting impact both on and off the airwaves.
Criticism and Controversies
In the realm of public figures, John Sterling, like many others, has encountered his fair share of criticism and controversies throughout his illustrious career. Detractors have accused him of exhibiting an excessive bias towards the Yankees, while others have raised questions about the accuracy of his play descriptions. Nonetheless, the unwavering support ofJohn Sterling’s devoted fan base and his enduring presence within the Yankees’ organization serve as a testament to the profound connection he has forged with Yankees enthusiasts over the years. While critics may voice their reservations, it remains undeniable that John Sterling’s distinctive style and fervent delivery have struck a chord with countless listeners, fostering cherished and enduring memories.
However, John Sterling’s broadcasting journey encompasses more than just his catchy catchphrases and signature calls. It also encompasses the enduring partnerships he has formed with his co-announcers. For a decade and beyond, he shared the booth with Joe Girardi, a former Yankees player, and manager, creating a dynamic duo that brought a wealth of baseball knowledge and insight to the airwaves. Their camaraderie and mutual respect not only enhanced the enjoyment of each broadcast but also enriched the overall listening experience, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of fans.
A Sportscaster Genius
John Sterling’s impact reverberates far beyond the confines of the Yankees’ realm. His influence extends its reach throughout the broadcasting sphere, igniting a fire within aspiring sportscasters and establishing an unparalleled standard of greatness. A multitude of budding broadcasters has gazed upon John Sterling as a beacon of inspiration, dissecting his delivery, mastering his timing, and embracing his remarkable ability to captivate audiences. With his distinctive style and unforgettable calls, the Yankees voice has left an everlasting imprint on the art of play-by-play announcing, molding the approach of future generations.
Let it be known that John Sterling’s triumphs as a sportscaster transcend mere talent behind the microphone. His triumphs are a testament to his unwavering work ethic, unwavering dedication, and unwavering commitment to his craft. John Sterling pours countless hours into devouring statistics, delving into player backgrounds, and immersing himself in team histories, all in the pursuit of providing listeners with a comprehensive and enlightened perspective during each game. His meticulous attention to detail and the effortless flow of his commentary bear witness to his unwavering pledge to deliver an unparalleled broadcast experience.
While John Sterling’s primary platform lies in his radio broadcasts, he effortlessly extends his reach to television, where he takes charge of hosting pregame and postgame shows for Yankees telecasts. With an adaptable nature as a broadcaster, he seamlessly transitions between mediums, captivating fans through diverse channels. Whether resonating through the airwaves or radiating on the screen, John Sterling’s unwavering enthusiasm and profound passion for the game leave an indelible mark, uniting Yankees fans and fostering a shared sense of exhilaration.
Amidst an ever-evolving industry that thrives on technological progress, John Sterling remains an unwavering constant, weaving a familiar thread that binds generations of Yankees fans. His broadcasts serve as a remarkable time machine, whisking listeners away to the heart of the ballpark, enabling them to bask in the exhilaration of the game regardless of their physical location. For countless fans, John Sterling’s voice has seamlessly intertwined with memories of balmy summer evenings, fervent pennant races, and the storied tapestry of the iconic New York Yankees.
When it comes to the realm of New York Yankees’ radio broadcasting, John Sterling’s influence cannot be exaggerated. With his one-of-a-kind approach, signature phrases, and unwavering enthusiasm, he has captured the hearts of fans and become a true legend in the field of sports commentary. John Sterling’s enduring commitment, unwavering devotion, and unparalleled talent for painting vivid pictures with his words have firmly established him as an integral part of the Yankees’ storied history. As the game of baseball thrives in the Bronx, John Sterling’s voice will persistently echo, serving as a timeless reminder of the enchanting allure of the sport.
What do you think? Leave your comment below?
The post Who is John Sterling, the Yankees’ best-known radio voice? appeared first on Pinstripes Nation.
