SEATTLE — In the Emerald City, Mariners television broadcaster Dave Sims has become a sports legend over the past 18 baseball seasons. His affection for Seattle is matched by the city’s admiration for him.
If you tune into a Mariners game on MLB-TV, you’ll be greeted by the thrill in Sims’ smooth voice as he exclaims “Giddy up, baby” or “Holy mackerel” following a significant hit or an electrifying play.
At 71 years old, Sims is considering a switch in his career to be closer to home.
His home base is Manhattan, where he and his wife reside during the baseball offseason. Additionally, one of his sons and a grandchild live nearby.
The speculation that began in June, sparked by an individual known as Dr. Joe during a WFAN talk show, has validity:
Sims is keen on leaving the Mariners to take over as the radio voice of the Yankees, succeeding John Sterling.
“We’ll see how it unfolds,” Sims shared with NJ Advance Media on Tuesday, just before calling the Yankees’ 11-2 victory over the Mariners for Root Sports. “I cherish my work here in Seattle. New York is where I belong. That’s all I can disclose.”
Two sources informed NJ Advance Media that Sims has interviewed for the permanent position left vacant by Sterling, who unexpectedly retired on April 15 after 16 games into his 36th season with the Yankees.
“I can’t discuss that,” Sims remarked.
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Sims would seamlessly connect with long-serving Yankees radio analyst Suzyn Waldman, as they have maintained a strong friendship for years.
When approached in the Yankees’ radio booth before Tuesday’s game, Waldman graciously declined to comment on Sims.
Sterling, now 85, will exit retirement next week to broadcast the Yankees’ last six regular-season games at Yankee Stadium and will also cover the entire postseason before retiring for good.
As per two sources, Sims may face significant competition from Rickie Ricardo in this endeavor. The Yankees’
A long-time Spanish radio broadcaster has covered games on WFAN for several years, especially during Sterling’s illness, and this season he worked alongside two young broadcasters, Justin Shackil and Emmanuel Berbari.
“It would be an honor to receive it, but I’m uncertain about their decision-making process,” Ricardo stated during a phone call on Tuesday. “It’s beyond my control, and I trust the judgment of those in charge.”
The decision-makers primarily involve Chris Oliviero, the marketing president for Audacy New York. The company’s portfolio includes WFAN, the Yankees’ flagship station since 2014. Although Oliviero will choose Sterling’s successor, the Yankees are likely to influence that decision, particularly team president Randy Levine.
For Sims, leaving Seattle seems contingent upon financial considerations.
A source informed NJ Advance Media that Sterling’s salary was “approximately $750,000, and it’s unlikely Audacy will offer the next person anything near that amount.”
Born on Valentine’s Day in 1953, Sims was a sports enthusiast as a child in Philadelphia, living a short distance from Connie Mack Stadium, the Phillies’ home from 1938 to 1970.
At just 11 years old, Sims felt crushed when the 1964 Phillies squandered the pennant, losing a 6 1/2-game lead with only 12 games left to play. Even sixty years later, he hasn’t moved past the moment when Reds’ Chico Ruiz stole home, initiating the team’s collapse.
After excelling in three sports during his time at Chestnut Hill Academy, Sims went on to attend Bethany College in West Virginia. There, he played catcher on the baseball team and returned kickoffs for the varsity football squad, while also starting his journalism career as a summer intern at the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Sims’ first professional role was as a sports writer for the New York Daily News, but he transitioned to broadcasting in 1982, becoming the radio voice of Temple Owls basketball.
Throughout his career, Sims earned national recognition for calling NFL and college basketball games on Westwood One, MLB games for ESPN and FOX, the
“Although I’m from the East Coast, I want to emphasize how much I enjoy being here in Seattle,” Sims stated.
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You can contact Randy Miller at rmiller@njadvancemedia.com.
Dave Sims: A Seattle Sports Icon Eyeing the Yankees’ Broadcast Booth
Who is Dave Sims?
Dave Sims is a prominent figure in sports broadcasting, known for his energetic commentary and deep passion for sports. As the voice of the Seattle Mariners, Sims has built a reputation for being one of the most recognizable personalities in Northwest sports. His journey from local broadcasting to the national spotlight has made him a beloved icon among Seattle sports fans.
Early Career and Rise to Fame
Dave Sims began his career in sports journalism during the late 1980s. His unique style and engaging personality quickly set him apart from other broadcasters. Sims started with local radio and television stations in the Seattle area, eventually making his way to the Mariners’ broadcast team.
- Background: Sims is originally from New York, which gives him a unique perspective on sports broadcasting.
- Education: He graduated from Wesleyan University, where he honed his communication skills.
- Milestones: In 2007, he became the full-time radio play-by-play announcer for the Seattle Mariners.
Dave Sims and the Mariners
Sims’ tenure with the Seattle Mariners has been marked by unforgettable moments and significant achievements. He has been a part of various milestones in Mariners history, including the team’s memorable playoff runs.
Key Contributions:
- Commentated on the 1995 playoff run, which is often regarded as the highlight of Mariners history.
- Developed a unique rapport with players, which adds a personal touch to his broadcasts.
- Continues to bring enthusiasm and insight into every game, making him a fan favorite.
Transitioning to National Broadcasts
As Sims looks to expand his horizons, there’s growing speculation about his potential transition to the New York Yankees’ broadcast booth. This move would not only mark a significant milestone in his career but would also resonate with fans from both Seattle and New York.
Why the Yankees?
The New York Yankees, one of the most storied franchises in Major League Baseball, have a massive national and global fanbase. Joining their broadcast team would offer Sims a platform to reach a wider audience and share his love for the game.
What Makes Sims a Great Fit?
Several factors make Dave Sims an ideal candidate for the Yankees’ broadcast booth:
- Experience: With decades of broadcasting experience, Sims has developed a keen understanding of the game.
- Personality: Sims’ charismatic presence can engage audiences, making games more enjoyable to watch.
- Connection with Fans: He has a proven ability to connect with fans, a trait that the Yankees highly value in their announcers.
Broadcasting Style and Impact
Dave Sims is known for his dynamic broadcasting style, which combines enthusiasm, humor, and insightful commentary. His ability to convey the excitement of a game has endeared him to fans over the years.
Broadcasting Techniques:
Sims employs several techniques that enhance his broadcasts:
- Storytelling: He often shares stories that provide context and depth to the game, making each broadcast more engaging.
- Player Insights: Sims frequently shares insights about players, which helps fans understand the game on a deeper level.
- Fan Interaction: He values fan feedback and often incorporates their opinions into his commentary, creating a community feel.
Benefits of Having Sims in the Yankees’ Booth
If Dave Sims were to step into the Yankees’ broadcast booth, there would be numerous benefits, not just for the team, but for the audience as well.
| Benefits | Details |
|---|---|
| Broadened Audience Reach | Sims’ experience in Seattle can attract new fans and engage existing ones. |
| Enhanced Game Experience | His storytelling can enhance viewers’ understanding of the game. |
| Stronger Fan Engagement | Sims’ ability to connect with fans can boost Yankees’ fan loyalty. |
| Fresh Perspectives | Bringing a different regional perspective can add variety to the broadcasts. |
Case Studies: Successful Transition of Broadcasters
Several broadcasters have made successful transitions to new teams or networks, setting a precedent for Sims’ potential move. Here are a few notable examples:
- Joe Buck: Transitioned from Fox Sports to ESPN and remained a beloved commentator across platforms.
- John Smoltz: Former MLB pitcher who transitioned seamlessly to broadcasting, earning accolades along the way.
- Bob Costas: Known for his versatility, he has covered a range of sports after moving across networks.
First-Hand Experience: What Fans Say
Fans have shared their thoughts on Dave Sims potentially joining the Yankees’ broadcast team. Here’s what they are saying on social media:
“Dave Sims has an energy that’s infectious! I can only imagine how great he would be with the Yankees!” – @BaseballFan123
“He tells stories that make you feel like you’re part of the game. The Yankees would be lucky to have him!” – @SeattleSally
“Sims is the voice of my childhood! Seeing him with the Yankees would be surreal.” – @YankeeLover99
Practical Tips for Aspiring Broadcasters
For those looking to follow in Dave Sims’ footsteps in sports broadcasting, consider these practical tips:
- Build Your Skills: Take classes in journalism or communications to develop your on-air presence.
- Network: Attend sports events and networking functions to meet industry professionals.
- Practice: Start with local broadcasts or podcasts to refine your commentary style.
- Stay Updated: Keep abreast of current sports events and trends to provide relevant commentary.
Conclusion
As Dave Sims continues to make waves in the sports broadcasting industry, his potential move to the New York Yankees’ broadcast booth has sports fans buzzing with excitement. With his extensive experience and unique broadcasting style, Sims is well-positioned to make a significant impact wherever he goes.
