Michael Kay Not Nearing Retirement, Despite Howie Rose's Departure

Michael Kay, the 65-year-old broadcaster for the New York Yankees, has stated he is not "close at all" to considering retirement. His comments come in the wake of Mets broadcaster Howie Rose stepping away from his announcing duties.

Kay, who has been a part of Yankees radio and television broadcasts for 35 years, expressed that he still enjoys his job and feels physically well. He indicated that health plays a significant role in any decision regarding a career change. "It’s funny because I worry about that decision whenever I make it. I don’t think I’m close to it at all," Kay told The Post. "I love the line, God laughs at those that make plans."

He also addressed the possibility of continuing his career into his 80s, a path taken by the late Yankees radio announcer John Sterling. Kay mentioned that he struggles to imagine himself at that age, let alone working in broadcasting. "I probably can’t even imagine being 80, so I can’t imagine what I’d be doing then," he said.

Kay recalled a conversation with Rose where the Mets announcer found it "strange" that colleagues continued in their jobs for so long. Kay responded by saying, "because it’s a great job. Why would you, why would you give it up willingly." He added that while a decline in skill or performance might necessitate reconsideration, he does not believe he is approaching that point. "I think I’m a pretty good judge of myself, so I don’t see retirement anytime in the future."

Kay's upcoming schedule includes calling the national radio broadcast of the Yankees’ Wild Card series on ESPN Radio. He will also host pre- and post-game shows for the YES Network during the team's playoff run. He humorously noted that his son, a devoted Yankees fan, is against him retiring, aware of the perceived advantages of having a parent in the Yankees' broadcast booth. Kay also joked about potentially spending too much time at home if he were to retire while his children are still in college.