The voice of a generation of Toronto Blue Jays fans will be silenced in the broadcast booth. Buck Martinez, the legendary announcer, has announced his retirement after a career spanning more than four decades. The news, which broke on Friday, , marks the end of an era for the franchise and its devoted followers.
Martinez, 77, informed the team of his decision after reflecting with his wife, Arlene, following the conclusion of the World Series. “After the World Series, my wife Arlene and I had plenty of time to think about the past and look forward to the future. After many heartfelt conversations, we both decided it was time for me to step out of the booth and enjoy the years ahead,” Martinez said in a press release. While he expressed contentment with his final season, he admitted that only a World Series victory for the Blue Jays could have surpassed it.
The Los Angeles Dodgers ultimately defeated the Blue Jays in a heartbreaking Game 7 of the 2025 World Series, winning 5-4 in 11 innings. That game, according to Sportsnet, was the most-watched English-language broadcast on record in Canada outside of the 2010 Winter Olympics, a testament to Martinez’s enduring appeal and the passion he brought to every call.
From Catcher to Colour Commentator to Play-by-Play Legend
Martinez’s connection to the Blue Jays dates back to 1981 when he joined the organization in a trade. He spent six seasons as a catcher for the team, retiring as a player in 1986 after a 17-year Major League Baseball career. His transition to the broadcast booth began in 1987 as a colour commentator, a role he embraced before later serving as the team’s manager from 2001-2002.
He seamlessly moved between roles throughout his career, demonstrating a rare versatility and deep understanding of the game. He excelled as both a play-by-play announcer and a colour commentator, providing insightful analysis and captivating storytelling to listeners and viewers alike. He called over 4,000 Blue Jays games in total, becoming synonymous with the team’s successes and struggles.
A Teammate Remembered
The impact of Martinez extends beyond his broadcasting prowess. He was widely regarded as a supportive and generous colleague. Dan Shulman, who worked alongside Martinez, described his work ethic as “one of a kind” and stated that there was “nobody better in the game.” Shulman recounted a piece of advice Martinez offered early in his career: “If we can make this sound like two guys sitting in a bar, having a beer and watching a game, we’re doing OK.”
Hazel Mae, another Sportsnet colleague, emphasized Martinez’s humility and dedication. Despite his extensive experience as a player, manager, and broadcaster, he consistently prepared diligently, sought input from others, and worked tirelessly. His commitment to excellence set a high standard for those around him.
A Legacy of Passion and Dedication
Sportsnet president Greg Sansone lauded Martinez as a “legend in baseball,” whose voice is “synonymous with summer.” Sansone further highlighted Martinez’s “passion for the sport and dedication to his craft are unrivaled,” adding that it was “the highest honour” for Sportsnet to have worked with him.
Martinez’s retirement leaves a significant void in the Blue Jays’ broadcast team and in the hearts of fans. His ability to connect with audiences, his encyclopedic knowledge of the game, and his genuine enthusiasm will be deeply missed. While his final call came after a World Series defeat, his legacy as the voice of the Blue Jays will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.
The 2026 Toronto Blue Jays season will begin without a familiar voice in the booth, but the echoes of Buck Martinez’s calls will continue to resonate with fans across Canada. His retirement marks not an ending, but a well-deserved opportunity to enjoy the fruits of a remarkable career and to spend more time with his wife, Arlene.
