No, it’s not the fact that the Yankees won last night thanks to a good start by Andy Pettitte and a strong relief appearance by Joba Chamberlain.
Although that’s certainly nice.
It’s the fact that the voice of the Yankees is on his way back:
In 2007, Sheppard, who doesn’t publicize his age (although BustedHalo sources report that he is 98!) was unable to finish announcing the season due to a severe illness. For the first time in his storied career the man whose microphone is encased at the Baseball Hall of Fame was unable to complete a season. Sadly, as fans are flocking to the Bronx this summer to pay their last respects before the new Yankee Stadium opens in 2009, Sheppard’s voice has not been there to greet them (except for Derek Jeter’s introduction—more on that later).
“With the help of God,” as he often says, Sheppard hopes to return sometime this season.
(…)
“My target date to be back is July 1. There is an All Star Game to be played at Yankee Stadium on July 15th and one of my goals is to be there and announce it. I did one years and years ago at Yankee Stadium but I can’t recall it. So now this would be something to remember. I do want to be there next year when we open a new Stadium. And I’d like to be the one who says, “Good Afternoon Ladies and Gentlemen…Welcome to the NEW…Yankee Stadium.” “
Which is how it ought to be.
H/T: Peter Abraham
