Longtime New York Mets play-by-play announcer Howie Rose has unexpectedly revealed he will retire at the end of the 2026 season, closing one of baseball broadcasting’s longest active careers.
Rose, 72, has served as the Mets’ lead play-by-play voice since taking over for Bob Murphy in 2004.
Inducted into the Mets Hall of Fame in January 2023, he will mark his 52nd year in broadcasting in 2026.
As news of his retirement spread on March 19, tributes poured in from fans, colleagues, and media figures.
“Howie Rose, you’re the best in the business,” wrote Kelley Franco, host of Three Inning Fan, on X. “Congratulations on your retirement.”
“Every game this season, fans should thank Howie Rose for his skill, warmth, and insight,” researcher Bill Chuck added.
Mets owners Steve and Alex Cohen praised him for bringing the team’s most memorable moments to life and noted that generations of fans have grown up listening to his authentic and energetic calls.
Will Sammon of The Athletic called Rose “everything you want in a broadcaster: prepared, honest, insightful, curious, informed, and entertaining.”
Even longtime Yankees broadcaster Suzyn Waldman shared memories of Rose’s dedication, recalling how he would practice play-by-play alone in a small studio in 1987, constantly critiquing himself to perfect his craft.
