Paul Severino spoke with Yankees about radio play-by-play job

[Ely Sussman]

The television voice of the Marlins since 2018, Severino grew up rooting for the Yanks. Per the New York Post, he was a candidate to replace retiring broadcaster John Sterling, but isn't among the finalists.

As Paul Severino winds down his seventh season on the mic for Miami Marlins television broadcasts, he has at least been willing to entertain other career opportunities. Ryan Glasspiegel of the New York Post reported Friday morning that Severino was a candidate to be the next radio play-by-play announcer for the New York Yankees. However, he is not believed to be among the finalists for the position.

The rumor is unsurprising considering the 40-year-old Severino grew up in Connecticut as a passionate Yankees fan. If the compensation was comparable to his Bally Sports Florida salary and he had the opportunity to "come home" while working for a team that's more consistently competitive than the Marlins are, it'd be tough to turn down. Also, getting the Yankees gig would likely mean more long-term stability—outgoing radio voice John Sterling spent more than three decades in that seat. Bally's future is murky as its parent company, Diamond Sports Group, remains in bankruptcy court.

Severino was hired by Bally (then known as FOX Sports Florida) entering the 2018 season. The Marlins have played 1,022 regular season games during his tenure and I would estimate that he has been there for at least 95% of those, occasionally spelled by Craig Minervini and national broadcasts.

Severino hasn't exactly been put in position to thrive in Miami. While he's had the opportunity to call postseason-clinching victories in 2020 and 2023, the Marlins overall have the second-fewest wins among all MLB teams since '18. Their roster has lacked continuity and so has the Bally broadcast booth—this season alone, Severino was paired with four different analysts (Tommy Hutton, Rod Allen, Gaby Sanchez and Jeff Nelson). 

Moreover, Severino had big shoes to fill. To the dismay of many Marlins fans, Rich Waltz was let go in the fall of 2017 when new ownership arrived. In reaction to the WFAN rumor, nearly seven years later, Fish On First Twitter replies and quote-tweets were filled with pleas to bring back Waltz.

Severino has nine more games left to call here in 2024 as the Marlins host the Atlanta Braves this weekend, then conclude their regular season with visits to the Minnesota Twins and Toronto Blue Jays.

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[Gabriel Revilla]

Would love to see them make a solid 2 guys for every broadcast. I noticed a few years ago that there is no continuity with the announcers. However would to see it be Kyle Seilaf and Rod Allen. This year I have spent a lot of time listening to marlins radio rather than watching games and I think he should be given a shot to take Sevarino’s place. I also think why not give Stephen Strom and the guy that has been coming up from triple A the go at it. I have enjoyed them on the radio broadcast. It makes sense if Severino leaves. This team is in shambles and the diamond sports is in shambles. Our good players are leaving, our good broadcasters are leaving… It’s what it is… this organization just feels like a launching pad for everybody’s careers. Shame. 

[MarlinFaninGA]

I've only been watching baseball since 1991 when my now ex got me into watching the Braves down in Miami. When the Marlins came into existence, we became Marlins fans. I divorced her, she went back to the Braves, I stayed with the Marlins. I've always assumed that Paul was a good announcer. I would hate to see him leave but if he wants to go announce for his favorite team, I would understand that completely and wish him all the best!

[Ely Sussman]

18 hours ago, Gabriel Revilla said:

I also think why not give Stephen Strom and the guy that has been coming up from triple A the go at it.

The guy from Triple-A is Scott Kornberg. Whether it's with the Marlins or some other team, I could definitely see him getting a major league job next season. Puts a lot of passion into his work and has paid his dues.

 

[Gabriel Revilla]

Scott Kornberg is the guy! I love the stories he puts together about players. You can for sure see his passion. Love the way he calls games. Both him and stephen would be great! Would love to see Kyle up on the TV tho. That is of course if Sevarino goes. if not, kyle and Severino on the big screen would be amazing!