Yankees announcer Sterling to take first day off since '89

Legendary New York Yankees radio announcer John Sterling will take the day off Thursday -- his 81st birthday -- marking the first time he won't be behind the mic since 1989, the New York Post reported. The Yankees begin a four-game series that day in Tampa, and Sterling will be replaced by Ryan Ruocco of the YES Network and ESPN. Ruocco will work with Sterling's broadcast partner, Suzyn Waldman, throughout the series.

With the All-Star break to follow, Sterling will have an extended break. The Yankees will resume play July 12 when they host the Toronto Blue Jays for a three-game series. Sterling said he hasn't felt at full strength lately but did not elaborate.

"For the moment, I'm a little under the weather," Sterling told the Post. "I've put in the time. I want to feel better and they think this is the time for me to do it -- and I agree." Sterling became the voice of the Yankees in 1989 and missed two games that season because of the death of his sister, Jane.

 

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