Michael Kay Eyes Reduced Schedule as Yankees Season Approaches

The voice of the New York Yankees, Michael Kay, has expressed a desire to reduce his on-air commitments as he approaches another season. Known for his passionate commentary on the YES Network, Kay is contemplating a shift in his role, especially as he balances family life and his broadcasting career.

Kay’s Reflections on Broadcasting

During a recent appearance on “The Main Event with Andrew Marchand” podcast, the 64-year-old Kay hinted that he might scale back his involvement:

“I do 135-140 Yankees games on YES. If they want me around, I could see myself staying around a while… But I’m not going to go at that pace,” he stated.

Potential Changes to His Schedule

• Reduced Game Count: Kay suggested that with a target of around 100 games, he would find the schedule more manageable.
• Career Longevity: Acknowledging his "twilight years," Kay shared concerns about what life will look like post-retirement. He remarked, “What do I do if I retire? I don’t have any interests.”

Deep Commitment to the Yankees

As the 2025 season approaches, Kay will be entering his 24th year calling games for the Yankees. His role requires significant commitment, stretching from February into November, with long hours and extensive travel.

Work-Life Balance Adjustments

Kay has already begun to streamline his radio commitments, transitioning from a traditional afternoon slot to a more flexible solo show on ESPN Radio from 1-3 PM ET. This shift has allowed him to spend more quality time with his young children, Charles and Caledonia:

“Moving my show, doing it alone from 1-3, has been an unbelievable game changer for me,” Kay stated, highlighting the positive impact on his family life.

Perspectives on Retirement

While he might entertain the idea of cutting back, Kay is not ready to leave broadcasting entirely. The longevity of others in the industry, such as former Yankees radio announcer John Sterling, who continued calling games at the age of 85, serves as a reference point for Kay:

• Career Longevity: “I want to live forever, but I’m not sure I want to go [forever],” Kay commented on the notion of retirement, emphasizing the importance of financial stability as well.

Conclusion

Michael Kay’s reflections signify a transitional phase as he balances the demands of a high-profile broadcasting career with his personal life. His willingness to adjust his schedule underlines the importance of family, while his enduring passion for the game keeps him engaged with the Yankees and their fans. As the new season approaches, fans can expect to hear his voice, albeit possibly less frequently, as he carefully navigates his future in sports media.

For more insights into Michael Kay’s life and his journey with the Yankees, visit YES Network and check out his show on ESPN Radio.