(Bronx, NY) – “I just don’t want to do any more work.”
That was the breakdown from iconic Yankees broadcaster John Sterling on WFAN’s airwaves earlier this week.
He and the Yankees had just announced his retirement after more than 35-years calling over 5,000 games for the Bronx Bombers. “I’ve worked for 64 years and in July I’ll be 86, so let’s face it, my time has come,” Sterling insisted.
Since nothing lasts forever, he will be celebrated on Saturday for all of his many accomplishments. And with that the race is on: who will be Sterling’s replacement?
In the New York Post, a betting card of sorts has been established. There are a number of worthy potential replacements, and they’ve gotten their feet wet in recent years. Because Sterling stopped traveling for most road games and stepped back a bit, younger colleagues have been getting a chance to call games.
The Post’s piece cites The Athletic, noting Justin Shacjkil and Emmanuel Berbari are among those who have already filled in. Brendan Burke, who calls games for the NHL’s New York Islanders, and NBA play-by-play man Ryan Ruocco as possibilities.
It’s fair to say that Ruocco may be the longshot of the group in terms of potentially taking the job (should it be offered) because of his standing at ESPN, and with YES calling Yankees games on TV. Ruocco is YES’ top fill in for Michael Kay, and he’s ESPN’s number two play-by-play guy for NBA games after legend Mike Breen.
That could make Shackil the odds-on favorite the land the job. He’s currently behind the mic for the Yankees road trip alongside longtime color commentator Suzyn Waldman. Shackil regularly serves as the Yankees on field reporter for WFAN, and he’s the understudy at play-by-play.
