The baseball world is in mourning, and no one feels the loss more than the Captain. Derek Jeter is among the many paying heartfelt respects to legendary New York Yankees broadcaster John Sterling, who passed away at the age of 87.
Major League Baseball confirmed the news on Monday, May 4, sending shockwaves through the sport. Sterling was the iconic voice of Yankees radio from 1989 through 2024, calling the final out of five World Series championships. His signature home run calls—like the unforgettable 'It is high, it is far, it is gone!'—became the soundtrack to a golden era of Yankees baseball.
Derek Jeter, the Hall of Fame shortstop who won four World Series rings during Sterling's tenure, shared a personal tribute on social media. On Instagram, Jeter reposted the Yankees' official statement, which read, 'The Yankees mourn the loss of legendary broadcaster John Sterling. Our thoughts are with John's family, friends and loved ones at this time.'
But Jeter didn't stop there. On X (formerly Twitter), he wrote a deeply personal message: '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.'
Sterling's career spanned seven decades and multiple sports, including stints with the Atlanta Braves and Hawks, the New York Nets and Islanders, and the Baltimore Bullets. But he was most beloved for his unmistakable, passionate style behind the mic for the Yankees. His signature call after a victory—'Theeeee Yankees win!'—became a rallying cry for generations of fans.
His longtime radio partner, Suzyn Waldman, also paid tribute. '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 on social media.
The tributes have poured in from across the sports world. Alex Rodriguez also mourned Sterling's passing, calling him 'one of one' in a separate tribute. For a deeper look at how A-Rod honored the legendary voice, see A-Rod Mourns Yankees' Legendary Voice John Sterling: 'He Was One of One'.
Sterling's impact extended beyond the broadcast booth. He was a larger-than-life personality who connected with players and fans alike. His unique catchphrases and unwavering enthusiasm made even a routine mid-summer game feel like October. As the Yankees organization and its fans reflect on his legacy, there's no doubt his voice will echo in the Bronx forever.
For more on Sterling's life and career, check out Yankees Legend John Sterling Dies at 87, Leaving an Unforgettable Voice and Baseball Mourns: Yankees Voice John Sterling Dies at 87, Tributes Flood In.
Our thoughts remain with his family, friends, and the countless fans who grew up listening to his calls. Rest in peace, John Sterling.
