John Flaherty, a familiar voice to New York Yankees fans for two decades as an analyst on the YES Network, is embracing a new phase of his life after his contract with the network concluded following the 2025 season. Flaherty, who previously played catcher for the Yankees from 2003-2005, transitioned to broadcasting and spent 20 years in the booth.
"I wouldn’t say it was a surprise," Flaherty said of his departure from YES, noting that he had seen it coming. "It was definitely something that I think I saw coming. It’s been an adjustment."
After a period of adjustment, Flaherty has found enjoyment in his newfound freedom. "Once he accepted that he did not have a big league season to cover and could choose how he spent his time, ‘It was fantastic,’" the New York Post reported. This marks his first major league season without a broadcasting schedule in 38 years, a span that began after his 14-season playing career concluded in 1992.
Flaherty, 58, recently returned from a trip to Italy and indicated he is not dedicating his summer to watching baseball daily, though he still checks scores periodically. While he has not ruled out a return to television or radio in the future should a suitable opportunity arise, he expressed contentment with having the summer to himself. "You don’t think about it while you’re in the grind," he said, referring to the demanding baseball season schedule. He also conveyed his consistent honor in participating in Old-Timers’ Day events, where he can reconnect with former teammates and baseball legends.
"It was a great run at YES," Flaherty stated, "but I’m enjoying this next chapter."
Flaherty was present at Yankee Stadium on August 8, 2026, for the Yankees' Old-Timers' Day festivities.