John Sterling’s days in the Yankees radio booth may not be over after all.
The longtime voice of the Bronx Bombers could return to the WFAN booth for the playoffs, Andrew Marchand of The Athletic reported Thursday.
Sterling, 86, is expected to speak in the coming days with Chris Oliviero, president of Audacy New York, which operates WFAN, about a possible return to the postseason.
“The ball is in their court,” Sterling told The Athletic. “You’d have to ask. I’d feel sorry for the guys who have been at the games all year.”
Traveling was one of the reasons for Sterling’s resignation, and he will likely have to travel to away games to return for the playoffs, The Athletic reported, adding that he may do warm-up commentary for some regular-season games if an agreement is reached for the playoffs.
Sterling retired on April 15, less than three weeks into the season, and the Yankees held a retirement ceremony for him on April 20.
Since his retirement, Emmanuel Berbari, Rickie Ricardo and Justin Shackil have alternated as Sterling’s successors alongside Suzyn Waldman.
Brendan Burke, the Islanders’ TV voice, also filled in occasionally, and even former WFAN host Craig Carton collaborated with Waldman on a series earlier this month, although Carton’s appearance on the radio was frequently mocked.
It is unclear who will be Sterling’s permanent replacement after this season.
Ryan Ruocco, who does some Yankees games on YES and basketball commentary for ESPN, may not be able to take the job due to his national commitments.
During a June appearance on The Post’s podcast “The Show with Joel Sherman and Jon Heyman,” Sterling said he would “stay out” of the process of selecting his successor.
“I don’t want to hurt anyone because of someone else. I think the kids are doing a great job. No problems,” Sterling said.
Sterling made a cameo appearance with Waldman, his longtime broadcast partner, during Tuesday’s game against the Guardians. He also appeared on the YES Network broadcast of that game and lamented a blown run by the Yankees.
