John Sterling may come out of retirement to call the New York Yankees’ postseason, according to sources briefed on WFAN, the Yankees and Sterling’s plans.
Early this season in April, Sterling, 86, stepped away from the booth after 36 years. The Yankees held a retirement ceremony for him. A trio of Rickie Ricardo, Justin Shackil and Emmanuel Berbari has replaced him.
This week, Sterling made a brief appearance in the Yankees booth, teaming up with analyst Suzyn Waldman to call a few innings.
Over the next few days, he is expected to discuss with Audacy New York president Chris Oliviero if he will return for the playoffs, according to a person briefed on the plans. Oliviero, who oversees WFAN, has not officially asked Sterling yet.
“The ball is in their court,” Sterling said. “They would have to ask. I would feel bad for the guys who have done the games all year.”
Oliviero declined to comment.
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While it is possible that WFAN and the Yankees could have Sterling call home playoff games, initial indications from those briefed on discussions is that he would need to commit to all home and road playoff games. Travel was one of the major reasons Sterling retired in April. On Thursday, via phone, he said the scheduling of the playoffs makes that aspect easier.
If he returns, Sterling could call a few regular-season games to tune up.
Regardless of whether he returns or not in October, Sterling is expected to resume retirement after the season.
The Yankees and WFAN would then consider Ricardo, Shackil and Berbari for the job while also conducting a national search.
Recently, WFAN and the Yankees had FS1 “Breakfast Ball” co-host Craig Carton call some games. While Carton is not a full-time candidate, team and radio executives liked what they heard and would invite him back. It is unlikely to happen this season as Carton’s “Breakfast Ball” responsibilities go into full swing in September.
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