John Sterling could return to lead Yankees postseason

August 22, 2024

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John Sterling could return to lead Yankees postseason

According to sources familiar with WFAN, the Yankees and Sterling’s plans, John Sterling may come out of retirement to play for the New York Yankees in the playoffs.

Early this season, Sterling, 86, left the booth after 36 years. The Yankees held a retirement ceremony for him. A trio of Rickie Ricardo, Justin Shackil and Emmanuel Berbari replaced him.

This week, Sterling made a brief appearance in the Yankees booth, where he teamed with analyst Suzyn Waldman to manage a few innings.

He is expected to discuss returning for the playoffs with Audacy New York President Chris Oliviero in the coming days, according to a person with knowledge of the plans. Oliviero, who oversees WFAN, has not yet officially asked Sterling.

“The ball is in their court,” Sterling said. “They should ask. I would feel sorry for the guys who have been doing the games all year.”

Oliviero declined to comment.

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While it’s possible that WFAN and the Yankees will let Sterling work home games in the playoffs, early indications from those familiar with the talks are that he’ll have to commit to all home and away playoff games. Travel was one of the main reasons Sterling retired in April. He said by phone Thursday that the playoff schedule makes that aspect easier.

If he returns, Sterling could play a few regular season games to get his act together.

Regardless of whether he returns in October or not, Sterling is expected to resume his retirement after the season.

The Yankees and WFAN would then consider Ricardo, Shackil and Berbari for the job while conducting a national search.

Recently, WFAN and the Yankees had FS1 “Breakfast Ball” co-host Craig Carton cover a few games. While Carton is not a full-time candidate, team and radio executives liked what they heard and would like to have him back. It is unlikely that will happen this season, as Carton’s “Breakfast Ball” duties are in full swing in September.