John Flaherty Exits YES Network After Two Decades of Yankees Broadcasting

NEW YORK, NY — Longtime New York Yankees analyst John Flaherty will not return to broadcasts with the YES Network after two decades, sources informed The Athletic on Tuesday.

The decision is part of a broader strategy by YES to streamline its broadcasts, focusing on its marquee commentators: David Cone, Paul O’Neill, and Joe Girardi. Flaherty, who is 58, had been with the network since he transitioned from a player to an analyst in 2006, following a 14-year career as a catcher, including three seasons with the Yankees.

Flaherty shared that he was not surprised by the decision, having been informed by YES executive producer Jared Boshnack on Monday. His contract included an option that was declined in August, though there was a possibility to re-sign him for a new deal. “I was kind of prepared for it so I think that helped,” he said.

Reflecting on his tenure, Flaherty expressed gratitude, saying, “It quickly went from the reality that you are not going to be back to what a great run for 20 years.” He appreciated his career’s momentum, moving directly from retirement to the booth.

Looking forward, Flaherty is open to exploring new opportunities in broadcasting or other fields beyond baseball, having signed his first minor league contract at age 20. Meanwhile, the adjustments come as YES looks to consolidate its analyst lineup with Girardi returning for the 2024 season, while also confirming the departure of part-time analysts Jeff Nelson and Dave Valle.

Michael Kay will lead the broadcasts, slated to call about 135 games next season, with Ryan Ruocco covering around 15, balancing their schedules with ESPN commitments. Flaherty was known for stepping in effectively when either Kay or Ruocco was unavailable.

The YES Network has undergone several changes in recent years. In 2022, it added Carlos Beltran and Cameron Maybin as analysts but eventually parted ways with them. This latest decision appears part of YES’s strategy to showcase its top talent and reinforce its connection to the Yankees’ championship legacy.