The Voice of God

I think when a lot of people hear "the voice of God" in terms of sports context, they think of John Facenda, of NFL Films fame. But, as a Yankees fan, the best set of pipes ever belongs to Mr. Bob Sheppard. Maybe, I shouldn't say best set of pipes ever, but as far as public address announcers are, he is by far and away the best there is, was and ever will be. Sheppard once said his philosophy of what a PA announcer should be is clear, concise and correct. Sheppard exemplified all three and you could probably add another "C" to it as well. In terms of class. Even though Sheppard has been retired for about 3 years now, his voice still lives on. He is featured prominently on the YES Network's bumpers ("You are watching the YES Network"), and to this day he still announces one person's name each game. Derek Jeter, made a request that a recording of Sheppard be used when Jeter comes to the plate. Jeter will also have that honor, when he steps to the plate during Tuesday's All Star Game.

Never going to the "old" Yankee Stadium is one thing I really wish I could have done. I also would have love to have heard Bob Sheppard in person. Seldom in today's day and age do I think public address announcers or regular play by play announcers get lumped into the distinction of being lumped in with a team's legacy. There are only a few exceptions, Vin Scully with the Dodgers, Chick Hearn was with the Lakers, and I'd throw Bob Sheppard into that. Sheppard may not be tied in with the Yankees as much, but no doubt he is the voice of Yankee Stadium and he always will be.

Here's more links and features on Bob Sheppard.
Buster Olney tribute
ESPN Story
YES Network Coverage
MLB Network Tribute