Longtime MLB broadcaster John Sanders passes away at age 83

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 12, 2026, 6:00 PM

Last updated Jun 12, 2026

Longtime MLB broadcaster John Sanders passes away at age 83
Summary

John Sanders, known for his work as a baseball play-by-play commentator, has died at the age of 83. He began his career in Kansas at WIBW-TV and moved to various stations, including KMBC-TV and KDKA-TV. Sanders became a notable voice in MLB as part of the Pittsburgh Pirates and later the Cleveland Indians broadcast teams from 1991 to 2006. His signature home run call is fondly remembered by fans. Tributes have poured in from the Cleveland Guardians and fellow sports broadcasters, reflecting on his contributions to sports broadcasting. Sanders's passing marks the end of an era for many who followed his career.

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By the Numbers
  • John Sanders spent years as a broadcaster for the Cleveland Indians.
  • He called games for the Pittsburgh Pirates from 1981 to 1989.
  • Tributes from the sports community highlight his impact on baseball.
  • Sanders's famous home run call resonated with fans during his tenure.
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  • 6:00 PMYahoo SportsLongtime MLB broadcaster John Sanders dead at 83
What they're saying
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Longtime baseball play-by-play commentator John Sanders has died. Sanders grew up in Kansas, getting his start at WIBW-TV in Topeka. He then moved to KMBC-TV in Kansas City. At KMBC, Sanders worked Kansas City Chiefs preseason telecasts from 1970-75. In 1978, Sanders moved to KDKA-TV as the weekend sports anchor. He eventually became the station’s…

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