**New Era for Yankees: Dave Sims Takes Over as Radio Announcer**
The New York Yankees have ushered in a new chapter in their broadcasting history, appointing Dave Sims as their full-time radio play-by-play announcer for the first time since 1988. Sims succeeds John Sterling, who retired early in the 2024 season but made a brief return for the postseason. Previously, Sims served as the television broadcaster for the Seattle Mariners.
John Sterling, a legendary figure in Yankees history, held the microphone for every game from 1989 until the summer of 2019, including postseason matchups. However, Sims was absent during the Yankees’ recent series against the Athletics in Sacramento. He had announced on social media that he would be visiting family in Seattle prior to the Yankees’ upcoming three-game series there.
This absence did not sit well with Boomer Esiason, a host on the Yankees’ radio network, who expressed his disappointment during his morning show. “John Sterling didn’t miss any games, did he? You just take a week off?” Esiason remarked, emphasizing the significance of the Yankees’ broadcasting role. He acknowledged his admiration for Sims but felt compelled to voice his concerns about the timing of his absence.
Esiason, a former NFL MVP, shared his own experiences of juggling travel for NFL games while ensuring he was present for his radio show. “I would fly to Monday night games and fly back in the middle of the night to be here in studio… It’s the Yankees for God’s sake,” he stated, highlighting the commitment he believes is necessary for such a prestigious role.
Last season, the Yankees had a rotation of announcers, but they ultimately chose Sims to take the helm. The upcoming series against the Mariners will mark Sims’ return to the broadcast booth, where he will call the games from the visitors’ side.
As the Yankees embark on this new era with Sims at the forefront, fans are eager to see how he will shape the team’s radio presence moving forward.
**FAQ**
*Why did Dave Sims miss the Yankees’ series against the Athletics?*
Dave Sims missed the series to visit family in Seattle before the Yankees’ three-game set against the Mariners.