Beloved Blue Jays broadcaster Buck Martinez steps down from the booth
Photo credit: https://www.thestar.com/
Longtime Toronto Blue Jays broadcaster Buck Martinez has announced his retirement, bringing an iconic career to a close at age 77.
When the Toronto Blue Jays open the 2026 season, one of the most recognizable voices in franchise history will be absent.
Buck Martinez revealed Friday that he is stepping away from the broadcast booth after more than four decades connected to the organization.
“After the World Series, my wife Arlene and I had plenty of time to reflect on the past and look ahead,” Martinez said in a press release. “After many heartfelt conversations, we decided it was time for me to leave the booth and enjoy the years ahead.”
Buck Martinez will always hold a special place in Canadian baseball
A native of Redding, Calif., Martinez first joined the Blue Jays during the 1981 season after being acquired in a trade.
He spent six seasons as the team’s catcher before retiring in 1986, concluding a 17-year Major League Baseball career.
Martinez transitioned to broadcasting the following year, joining the Blue Jays’ television crew as a colour commentator.
His broadcasting tenure included two stints in the booth, separated by a run as the club’s manager from 2001 to 2002.
Over the years, he worked as both a play-by-play announcer and analyst.
His final broadcast will be remembered as Game 7 of the 2025 World Series.
His final broadcast will be remembered as Game 7 of the 2025 World Series.
“Buck Martinez is a legend in baseball,” Sportsnet president Greg Sansone said in a statement. “His voice is synonymous with summer, and his passion and dedication to the game are unmatched. It has been an honour to work alongside him.”
Martinez called more than 4,000 Blue Jays games during his broadcasting career. Reflecting on his final season, he said only one outcome could have made it better.
“It’s been an incredible journey with Sportsnet, the Blue Jays, and the fans around the world,” Martinez said. “Thank you for welcoming my family and me and making us feel like part of yours. I’ll always carry that with me.”
Blue Jays president Mark Shapiro described Martinez as one of the most influential figures in franchise history.
“Buck connected generations of fans through his passion, insight, and unforgettable storytelling,” Shapiro said. “His impact reaches far beyond the microphone, and he will always hold a special place in Canadian baseball.”
Broadcast partner Dan Shulman, who worked alongside Martinez throughout the Blue Jays’ 2025 postseason run, reflected on their long-standing partnership, which began in 1995.
“I couldn’t have asked for a better partner,” Shulman said. “No one worked harder or cared more. Buck is one of the most important figures in Blue Jays history and a cherished colleague and friend.”
The Blue Jays will celebrate their 50th season in 2026, with opening day scheduled for March 27 against the Athletics at Rogers Centre.
“I hoped to be part of the Blue Jays’ 50th year,” Martinez said, “but it’s time to pass the torch.”
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