BREAKING: Yankees Radio Host Dave Sims Unexpectedly Announces Throat Illness — May Retire Early, 2026 Could Be His Last Season

Posted January 7, 2026

New York — The New York Yankees fan community and baseball world have just received shocking and emotional news: Dave Sims, the Yankees' primary radio announcer, has unexpectedly revealed that he is facing a serious throat health issue that may force him to retire early — making the 2026 season potentially his last on the Yankees microphone.

This news quickly spread across social media, fan forums, sports programs, and MLB press conferences, sparking concern, regret, and worry not only among Yankees fans but throughout the entire sports community.

Born in 1953, Sims officially became the New York Yankees' play-by-play broadcaster on WFAN beginning in the 2025 season, following the retirement of legend John Sterling. He hosts games via radio — a voice now familiar to pinstripes fans across the Northeastern United States and beyond.

With over four decades of broadcasting experience, Sims is more than just a broadcaster — he is part of the summer memories of generations of Yankees fans who grew up following MLB.

Now, with his announcement that a throat condition is affecting his ability to speak clearly, loudly, and with control — fundamental skills for a broadcaster — many worry that he may not be able to continue hosting games as he once did.

In a statement released today, Sims shared that he has undergone numerous medical examinations to pinpoint the exact cause of the symptoms affecting his voice. He explained that it began with persistent voice fatigue after broadcasts, progressing to difficulty controlling his voice and fatigue that occurred more quickly than usual.

While not revealing a specific diagnosis, Sims candidly stated that the condition “requires serious treatment and rest,” and that “it would be unrealistic to try to continue as before.”

"I’ve spent my whole life recounting Yankees games — from home runs to game-winning moments," Sims said. "Now, when my body starts saying ‘stop,’ I have to listen. The 2026 season may be the last I do this. And it’s an emotion — both proud and heavy-hearted."

The news left many fans speechless. On forums like Reddit, Yankees supporters expressed their emotions, noting that Sims' voice had become a defining part of the baseball season for them:

"Hearing Dave call the game is part of the summer. If 2026 is the last, it will be an emotional season."

"Nobody wants his final season to go by quietly. We need to honor him."

Sims has been widely praised for his natural, engaging style and storytelling ability, creating a distinctive radio experience while continuing the legacy of Yankees radio legends.

The Yankees organization and broadcasting staff have expressed strong support. Longtime colleague and co-host Suzyn Waldman called Sims “a true friend and an outstanding storyteller.”

In a brief statement, the club said:

"Dave Sims has brought joy and emotion to fans throughout his career. We support him on his health journey and will always stand behind him, whatever his final decision may be."

The club also announced a “Dave Sims tribute” event during the 2026 season, allowing fans to say goodbye, preserve memories, and honor him before the season concludes.

Sims’ career spans multiple eras of American sports broadcasting, from early radio programs to MLB and NFL coverage, marking decades of influence. He was also one of the few African-American commentators to hold a primary play-by-play role in MLB, contributing to the diversification of voices in sports.

Many fans recall his voice during iconic moments — dramatic home runs, high-intensity games, and unforgettable victories. Now, even saying goodbye is part of Yankees history.

Despite his health challenges, Sims expressed his intention to enjoy every game of the 2026 season, viewing it as “a final, meaningful journey of gratitude” to his fans and himself.

"I know every day I get to hold the microphone is a gift," he said. "And if the 2026 season is my last, then I’ll do it with all my heart."

For Yankees fans, it is more than just a season — it is an emotional farewell to a voice that has been with them for years, and one that will leave unforgettable memories in baseball and American sports broadcasting history.