BOSTON — After 42 years behind the microphone, Joe Castiglione, the beloved radio voice of the Boston Red Sox, is set to retire at the end of the current season. This announcement arrives on the heels of the team’s long-standing tradition of baseball broadcasts, solidifying his place as the longest-tenured play-by-play announcer in the team's storied history.
The 77-year-old broadcaster revealed his decision during the top of the fourth inning at Yankee Stadium, capturing the attention of baseball fans everywhere. “After 42 seasons with the Red Sox and more than 6,500 games, I have decided it's time to retire from a regular broadcast schedule,” Castiglione stated, expressing gratitude for his long career and the rich experiences he has had. He added, "While I feel I am at the pinnacle of my career... it’s time to spend more time with Jan, my bride of almost 53 years, my kids, and grandkids.”
Castiglione became the Red Sox's lead radio voice back in 1983, the same year the franchise said goodbye to Hall of Fame outfielder Carl Yastrzemski. Since then, he has led the charge on the airwaves, calling pivotal moments like the Red Sox's four World Series victories. His iconic call, “Ground ball, stabbed by Foulke. He has it, he underhands to first. And the Boston Red Sox are the World Champions. For the first time in 86 years, the Red Sox have won baseball’s world championship, can you believe it?” will forever echo among fans and players alike.
Red Sox Principal Owner John Henry praised Castiglione's contributions to the sport, saying, “Joe is one of the greatest in baseball broadcasting. His recognition by the Hall of Fame this summer punctuated a career of vivid storytelling, bringing the game to life for generations of listeners.” Such accolades are not surprising considering his dedicated listenership, which has grown and thrived through his passionate storytelling and unique play-calling style.
Castiglione’s remarkable career includes more than just baseball; he moonlighted as the radio voice for the Cleveland Cavaliers and called college basketball games on New England Sports Network (NESN). His diverse experience enhanced his storytelling ability, giving fans vivid moments painted through his words during every broadcast.
His achievements have not gone unnoticed by the greater baseball community. Last July, Castiglione was honored with the prestigious Ford C. Frick Award from the National Baseball Hall of Fame, and he was inducted to the Red Sox Hall of Fame back in 2014. Building upon this legacy, Fenway Park's home radio booth was named the “Joe Castiglione Booth” just last year, ensuring his mark on the franchise will last for decades.
While Castiglione will step away from the microphone, he will not cut ties with the Red Sox. The franchise has announced plans to keep him on as an honorary ambassador. This role will include appearances at various events and spring training, where he will likely share stories from his extensive career. The Red Sox have also assured fans he may still appear for games should the need arise.
Reflecting on his time, Castiglione expressed how he will miss the daily interactions with fans and the thrill of broadcasting live games. Yet, he feels this decision is right for him and for his family, who have supported him throughout his remarkable career.
The Red Sox will honor Joe Castiglione's legendary career during their regular-season finale on September 29 against the Tampa Bay Rays at Fenway Park. It promises to be an emotional farewell for someone who has woven his voice so beautifully through the fabric of Red Sox Nation, leaving behind not just memories but also relationships forged through love for the game.
Castiglione's retirement marks the end of an era, but it also opens up opportunities for new voices to emerge. Fans will undoubtedly reminisce about those summer afternoons spent huddled around the radio, listening to Castiglione’s passionate remarks and nuanced descriptions of every baseball game, as they prepare to bid adieu to one of baseball's most iconic broadcasters.
Generations of fans will forever hold their memories of Joe Castiglione’s voice close to their hearts, recognizing the significant role he has played in the Red Sox legacy. His enduring impact on the team and its fans cannot be overstated. Now, as he transitions to this new stage of life, the question remains: who will take up the mantle of the next voice of the Red Sox?
