Dave Sims Replaces John Sterling in Yankees Radio Booth

John Sterling’s Replacement in Yankees Radio Booth: A New Era with Dave Sims

The Yankees radio booth is entering a new era as the legendary John Sterling, the voice behind over 5,000 games for the New York Yankees, officially retires. After a brief return for the playoffs, Sterling has stepped down for good, and the iconic position now belongs to Dave Sims.

This monumental shift comes as WFAN Radio announced on Thursday that Dave Sims will take over as the Yankees’ new play-by-play broadcaster for the 2025 MLB season and beyond. This decision is a significant milestone in the storied history of the Yankees radio booth, promising a fresh voice for fans while preserving the tradition of excellence.

Dave Sims: The New Voice of Yankees Radio

Dave Sims, a two-time Emmy Award winner, brings decades of experience to his new role. For over 20 years, he has been the primary voice of the Seattle Mariners, earning accolades such as three consecutive Washington Sportscaster of the Year awards from 2018 to 2020. His appointment to the Yankees radio booth marks a homecoming to New York, where he previously worked as a radio host for the New York Knicks in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

The role of play-by-play broadcaster for the Yankees carries immense prestige. Chris Oliviero, New York Market President for Audacy, the parent company of WFAN Radio, emphasized the significance of the role:

“The radio voice of the Yankees is a storied position in the history of baseball. Dave Sims is a worthy successor to that lineage.”

Sims, now 71, will join forces with Suzyn Waldman, the long-time color commentator for Yankees broadcasts. Together, they will shape the next generation of coverage from the Yankees radio booth.

Why Dave Sims Was Chosen as John Sterling’s Replacement

Replacing John Sterling is no easy feat. Sterling, who retired in April after calling over 5,400 regular-season games and more than 200 postseason contests, has been synonymous with the Yankees radio booth for decades. At 85, Sterling cited fatigue as the reason for his departure, leaving a significant void for the team and its fans.

Dave Sims emerged as the top choice among two finalists considered for the position. The other contender, Rickie Ricardo, previously served as the Yankees’ Spanish-language radio announcer. While both had strong credentials, Sims’ extensive broadcasting experience and deep ties to New York sports made him the ideal successor.

Suzyn Waldman and Dave Sims: A Dynamic Duo

The pairing of Suzyn Waldman and Dave Sims promises to create an engaging and dynamic listening experience for fans. Waldman, a respected figure in the Yankees radio booth, brings years of expertise and a deep connection with the audience. Her partnership with Sims is expected to maintain the high standards set by her previous collaborations, including her iconic years with John Sterling.

What This Means for Yankees Fans

The 2025 MLB season will mark a fresh start for the Yankees radio booth. Fans can look forward to Dave Sims’ expert play-by-play commentary, which blends energy, storytelling, and a passion for the game. His return to New York brings a sense of familiarity, while his extensive resume ensures he is ready to uphold the tradition of excellence established by his predecessors.

Meanwhile, Suzyn Waldman will continue to provide insightful analysis, offering continuity to loyal listeners. Together, they will guide fans through every pitch, home run, and unforgettable moment of the season.

The Future of Yankees Broadcasting

As the 2025 season approaches, anticipation grows for the new voice of the Yankees. Dave Sims, with his wealth of experience and charisma, steps confidently into the legendary Yankees radio booth, ensuring that the legacy of John Sterling is honored while ushering in a new chapter.

For Yankees fans, this transition represents more than just a change in broadcasters; it’s a chance to embrace the future while celebrating the past. With Dave Sims and Suzyn Waldman at the helm, the Yankees radio booth is set to deliver another thrilling era of baseball broadcasting.