In addition to owner George Steinbrenner, the Yankees family lost another member this past week with the passing of long-time announcer Bob Sheppard. For fans like Ira Riklis, Sheppard—who has been called “a voice of God,”—was an important part of the experience of attending a game at the old Yankee Stadium. It’s been nearly three years now since he made his last call at age 96.
He served behind the microphone on game days for almost 50 years, having made his debut as the public address announcer on April 17, 1951, the same day that Mickey Mantle started his career in pinstripes. Years later, Mantle recalled, “Each time Bob Sheppard introduced me at Yankee Stadium, I got shivers up my spine.” And Sheppard said to him, ‘So did I.’” Ira Riklis can also remember Sheppard making the announcements at New York Giants football games. Like other fans, he’s missed Sheppard and his eloquent and elegant introductions.