Buck Martinez, the iconic voice of the Toronto Blue Jays, has announced his retirement from broadcasting. The 77-year-old made the decision following the 2025 World Series, concluding a remarkable tenure that began in 1987.
Martinez's career spanned playing, managing, and broadcasting. After a 17-year MLB playing career, he served as a color analyst for the Blue Jays, managed the team in 2001-2002, and had a stint with the Baltimore Orioles before returning to Toronto's booth in 2010.
In a heartfelt statement, Martinez expressed his gratitude to Sportsnet, the Blue Jays organization, Rogers leadership, and fans worldwide. "It has been a fantastic journey... I will dearly miss my working partners... and the wonderful Blue Jays fans," he said, noting he will "never forget the unwavering support and generosity." He had hoped to be part of the team's 50th year but felt it was "time to pass the torch."
Martinez's recent years have included health battles. In 2022, he took a leave after a head and neck cancer diagnosis, returning post-treatment. This past May, he took another leave for lung cancer treatment before returning late in the summer.
His playing career began with the Kansas City Royals in 1969, included stops in Milwaukee, and culminated with the Blue Jays, where he played from 1981 until his retirement as a player in 1986.