Derek Jeter Saddened By Death Of Legendary Yankees Announcer

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Derek Jeter Saddened By Death Of Legendary Yankees Announcer

Originally posted on The Spun | By Andrew Holleran | Last updated May 4, 2026 10:00 PM ET

Derek Jeter is among those paying tribute to the legendary New York Yankees announcer John Sterling on Monday, May 4.

Major League Baseball announced that Sterling, the play-by-play announcer for the Yankees' radio broadcasts from 1989 until 2024, has passed away. He was 87 years old.

"We are saddened by the passing of former New York Yankees broadcaster John Sterling. Through his unique style and passionate play-by-play calls, Sterling endeared himself to generations of players and fans as radio voice of the Yankees from 1989 to 2024. His signature punctuation of Yankees victories included calling the final out of five World Series championships. Sterling’s seven-decade broadcasting career also included stints with the Atlanta Braves and Hawks, the New York Nets and Islanders, and the Baltimore Bullets. He was 87 years old," MLB announced.

NEW YORK - JULY 17: Broadcasters John Sterling (L) and Michael Kay of the New York Yankees introduce the players during the teams 64th Old-Timer's Day before the MLB game against the Tampa Bay Rays on July 17, 2010 at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)

Jeter is among those to pay tribute. Jeter, one of the most famous Yankees players of all-time, shared a message from the team on his Instagram Story early on Monday morning, after news broke of Sterling's death.

"The Yankees mourn the loss of legendary broadcaster John Sterling. Our thoughts are with John’s family, friends and loved ones at this time," the team wrote.

Jeter added more thoughts on X.

"John Sterling is as much a part of the fabric of the New York Yankees organization as any player. It was an honor to have him call every one of my games during my career and an absolute pleasure to get to know him on a personal basis. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. He will be deeply missed," he wrote.

Sterling's longtime radio partner paid tribute, too

One of Sterling's longtime radio partners, Suzyn Waldman, paid tribute to him on her social media accounts.

"Thank you to everyone who has reached out! Very tough day, but a celebration of the life of a man who lived life exactly the way he wanted is in order! ," she wrote.