John Sterling could return to host the New York Yankees’ postseason game, according to sources with knowledge of WFAN, the Yankees and Sterling’s plans.
In early April this year, Sterling, 86, left the booth after 36 years. The Yankees held a retirement ceremony for him. He was replaced by the trio of Ricky Ricciardo, Justin Shakir and Emmanuel Berbari.
Sterling made a brief appearance in the Yankees booth this week, working with analyst Suzyn Waldman to call the results of a few innings.
In the coming days, he is expected to discuss a return to the playoffs with Audacy New York president Chris Oliviero, according to a person familiar with the plans. Oliviero, who runs WFAN, has yet to formally question Sterling.
“The ball is in their court,” Sterling said. “They have to ask. I would feel bad for the players who have been playing all year.
Oliviero declined to comment.
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While there is a possibility that WFAN and the Yankees will allow Sterling to call the playoffs a home game, early indications from being briefed on the discussions indicate that he would need to commit to all home and away playoff games. The trip was one of the main reasons Sterling retired in April. He said by phone Thursday that the playoff schedule makes that easier.
If he returns, Sterling will likely play a few regular-season games to get in shape.
Regardless of whether he returns in October, Sterling is expected to return from retirement at the end of the season.
The Yankees and WFAN would then consider Ricciardo, Shakir and Berbary for the job while also conducting a nationwide search.
Recently, WFAN and the Yankees have brought in FS1 “Breakfast Ball” co-host Craig Carton to host some games. While Carton isn’t a full-time candidate, the team and station brass liked what they heard and would invite him back. That’s unlikely to happen this season with Catton’s Breakfast Dance duties in full swing in September.
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