Mariners legend Rick Rizzs announces retirement after 2026 season
SEATTLE — Rick Rizzs, the beloved voice of the Seattle Mariners for 40 years, has announced his retirement after the 2026 season. With a career spanning 51 seasons as a baseball play-by-play announcer, including 43 in the MLB and 40 with the Mariners, Rizzs reflects on his remarkable journey.
"I've been incredibly fortunate to live my dream as a baseball announcer," Rizzs said. "From my 25 years alongside the legendary Dave Niehaus and my trusted producer-engineer, Kevin Cremin, to my current partners, Gary Hill and Aaron Goldsmith, it's been an honor."
Rizzs' connection to the Mariners and their fans is profound. "Calling Mariners games has been the highlight of my life," he shared. "The relationships I've built with managers, coaches, players, and fans have made this experience truly special."
Despite his love for the game, Rizzs acknowledges the need to spend more time with his family, particularly his grandkids. "The time has come for me to step back and enjoy more family time," he said.
The 2026 season will mark Rizzs' final year in the Mariners broadcast booth, but he'll remain involved, broadcasting home games daily and road games on a reduced schedule. He'll be there for every postseason game, right through the World Series.
Rizzs, who turned 72 on November 17, began his Mariners career in 1983, pairing with the legendary Dave Niehaus. His 40 seasons with the team surpass Niehaus' 34-year career, making him the longest-tenured broadcaster in the club's history.
As the Mariners prepare for their 50th season in 2026, Chairman and Managing Partner John Stanton praised Rizzs' impact. "Rick has become the Voice of the Mariners," Stanton said. "His iconic calls and love for our team and community make every broadcast special."
Beyond broadcasting, Rizzs co-founded the non-profit Toys for Kids in 1995, which has donated over 360,000 toys to Pacific Northwest kids during the holidays. The initiative also provides support to homeless mothers and school children facing food scarcity.
Rizzs' broadcasting career began in 1975 with Double-A games in Alexandria, Amarillo, and Memphis. He later became the sports director at WBNS radio in Columbus, Ohio, calling Ohio State Football and Triple-A baseball before joining the Mariners.
As Rizzs prepares for retirement, the Mariners community reflects on his enduring legacy, both on and off the field.
