The winds of change are blowing through the Bronx as a new voice prepares to take over the airwaves for the New York Yankees. Dave Sims, a seasoned broadcaster who has spent the last two decades calling games for the Seattle Mariners, is set to replace the legendary John Sterling as the lead radio play-by-play announcer for the Yankees starting in the 2025 season.
The news, first reported by WFAN, marks the end of an era for Yankees fans who have grown accustomed to Sterling’s iconic calls and larger-than-life personality over the last 36 years. Sterling, now 86, initially announced his retirement in April but returned for a final hurrah in the postseason before officially passing the torch to Sims.
A Homecoming for Sims
For Sims, taking over the Yankees booth is a homecoming of sorts. The 71-year-old broadcaster began his career as a reporter for the New York Daily News before eventually making his way to Seattle, where he has become a beloved figure among Mariners fans.
“It’s great to be home,” Sims said in a statement released by WFAN. “I’ve always had a deep appreciation for the history and tradition of the Yankees organization, and I’m honored to have the opportunity to be a part of it.”
Sims will join longtime Yankees radio analyst Suzyn Waldman in the booth, forming a new partnership that will undoubtedly face scrutiny from fans who have grown accustomed to the chemistry between Waldman and Sterling over the years.
The Legacy of John Sterling
Sterling’s retirement marks the end of one of the most remarkable tenures in sports broadcasting history. The eccentric play-by-play man has been a fixture in the Yankees booth since 1989, calling some of the most memorable moments in franchise history with his signature style and catchphrases.
From his “Yankees win! Theeeeee Yankees win!” call to his player-specific home run catchphrases, Sterling’s voice has become synonymous with Yankees baseball for generations of fans. His longevity and unique style have made him a beloved figure in the Bronx, even as his unconventional methods and occasional gaffes have drawn criticism from some corners.
Can Sims Fill Sterling’s Shoes?
As Sims prepares to take over the Yankees booth, the question on everyone’s mind is whether he can truly fill the shoes of a legend like Sterling. While Sims brings a wealth of experience and a strong reputation from his time in Seattle, he will undoubtedly face a steep learning curve as he adjusts to the unique demands and expectations of the Yankees fanbase.
One thing working in Sims’ favor is his familiarity with the American League, having called games for the Mariners in the AL West for the past 20 years. This experience should help him hit the ground running when it comes to learning the intricacies of the Yankees roster and their opponents.
A New Era Begins
As the Yankees prepare to embark on a new era in their radio booth, fans will undoubtedly have mixed emotions. While it’s hard to imagine anyone truly replacing Sterling, Sims brings a fresh voice and perspective that could breathe new life into the broadcasts.
In many ways, the transition from Sterling to Sims represents a passing of the torch not just for the Yankees, but for the sport of baseball as a whole. As a new generation of broadcasters takes over the airwaves, they will be tasked with honoring the rich history and tradition of the game while also adapting to the changing landscape of sports media.
For Yankees fans, the sound of Dave Sims’ voice on the radio will undoubtedly take some getting used to. But as they say in baseball, hope springs eternal. And with a new season on the horizon and a new voice in the booth, anything is possible in the Bronx.
