Retired legendary announcer considering drastic move

According to Andrew Marchand of The Athletic, the 86-year-old is expected to discuss his potential plans with Audacy New York president Chris Oliviero "over the next few days." Marchand's report further noted that Oliviero (who oversees WFAN) hasn't officially asked Sterling to return yet and declined to comment on the matter.

"The ball is in their court," Sterling said, per the report. "They would have to ask. I would feel bad for the guys who have done the games all year."

The longtime radio voice of the Bronx Bombers stepped away from the microphone in April after 36 years in the booth. The Yankees held a retirement ceremony for Sterling and a rotation including Emmanuel Berbari, Justin Shackil and Rickie Ricardo have joined color commentator Suzyn Waldman as the icon's replacement this season.

Sterling made a short return to New York's broadcast booth earlier this week to announce with Waldman.

Marchand's report noted that Sterling could "tune up" for the playoffs by working a few regular-season contests and even if he does return in October, he's expected to resume retirement following the campaign.

"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," the report said. "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."

Sterling was on the call for five of the franchise's record 27 World Series titles, including four in a five-year span (1996, 1998-2000). The Yankees haven't won a championship since 2009, however, and it would be fitting to see Sterling riding off into the sunset with one more World Series victory broadcast.