The crack of the bat. The roar of the crowd. And that unmistakable voice: "It's an A-bomb from A-Rod!" For Alex Rodriguez, that call wasn't just a catchphrase—it was the soundtrack to some of his greatest moments in pinstripes. Now, with the passing of legendary Yankees broadcaster John Sterling at age 87, Rodriguez is speaking out about the man who gave voice to a dynasty.
Sterling died Monday after recent heart-related health issues, leaving behind a legacy that spans 36 seasons behind the mic. He called 5,420 regular-season games and 211 postseason contests before retiring in April 2024. His signature home run calls—from "A-bomb" to "Theeee Yankees win!"—are etched into baseball history.
A-Rod's Emotional Tribute
Taking to social media, the three-time MVP reflected on Sterling's larger-than-life presence. "John Sterling was one of one. I loved him, and I'll always be grateful for how good he was to me throughout my career," Rodriguez wrote. "No one loved baseball more than John. He was a true ambassador for the game, beloved and revered by everyone who knew him or heard his voice."
Rodriguez also shared a personal memory: "I'll never forget hearing him and Suzyn call games, and his incredible Hank Aaron stories. The baseball world will miss him deeply, but we will never forget him."
Yankees Honor Their Voice
The Yankees released a statement Monday morning, acknowledging the profound loss. "We pause today—along with millions of Yankees fans around the world—to recognize the passing of one of our own," the team said. "John Sterling breathed life and excitement into Yankees games for 36 years while wearing his passion for baseball and the Yankees on his sleeve."
The statement continued: "John treasured his role as the voice of the New York Yankees, and his enthusiasm for the art of broadcasting perfectly complemented our city and our fans. The symmetry between John and his audience was both undeniable and magical, and his signature calls will resonate for as long as we put on pinstripes—especially after every Yankees win."
Sterling's death comes just months after the baseball world mourned the loss of another iconic voice: Canucks broadcaster John Garrett, though in a different sport, reminded fans how deeply broadcasters connect with their teams.
A Legacy That Won't Fade
Sterling retired with as many World Series rings as Hall of Fame shortstop Derek Jeter—five. His colorful calls and theatrical style made him a beloved figure not just in New York, but across the entire baseball landscape. For a generation of fans, Sterling's voice was the soundtrack of summer afternoons and October nights.
As tributes continue to pour in, Rodriguez's words capture the sentiment of millions: Sterling was more than a broadcaster—he was family. And while his voice may be silent, the echoes of "Theeee Yankees win!" will never fade.
For more on Sterling's life and career, read our full tribute: Yankees Legend John Sterling Dies at 87, Leaving an Unforgettable Voice.
