The Yankees announcer had been with the team since 1951, ending his run in 2007 when he fell ill. His “impeccable introductions of stars from Joe DiMaggio to Derek Jeter” earned him the nickname “Voice of God.” He died this morning with his wife by his side. George M. Steinbrenner III said in a statement: “I am deeply saddened by the death today of Bob Sheppard, a good friend and fine man whose voice set the gold standard for America’s sports announcers. For over a half century, fans were thrilled to hear his unforgettable voice and players were thrilled to hear his majestic enunciation of their names. Bob Sheppard was a great member of the Yankees family and his death leaves a lasting silence. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Mary, and their family.” [NYP]
