Longtime Baltimore Ravens Broadcaster Gerry Sandusky Announces Retirement

After nearly 42 years in sports broadcasting, the 'Voice of the Ravens' is stepping down.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 6:43pm

Gerry Sandusky, the longtime sports director at WBAL-TV 11 and the play-by-play voice of the Baltimore Ravens, has announced his retirement after nearly 42 years in broadcasting. Sandusky has become one of the most recognizable voices in Baltimore sports, covering major moments like the arrival of the Ravens, the opening of Oriole Park, Cal Ripken Jr.'s streak, and two Ravens Super Bowl championships.

Why it matters

Sandusky's retirement marks the end of an era for Baltimore sports fans, who have grown accustomed to his smooth delivery, vivid storytelling, and iconic 'The hay is in the barn' call during Ravens games. His departure will leave a void in the city's sports broadcasting landscape.

The details

Sandusky has been WBAL-TV 11's Sports Director since 1993 and added the role of Ravens play-by-play voice in 2006. He is known for his exceptional talent in 'illustrating with words' and capturing the emotions of Baltimore football. Sandusky's final newscast is set for April 17.

  • Sandusky has been in broadcasting for nearly 42 years.
  • He became WBAL-TV 11's Sports Director in 1993.
  • Sandusky added the role of Ravens play-by-play voice in 2006.
  • Sandusky's final newscast is set for April 17, 2026.

The players

Gerry Sandusky

Longtime sports director at WBAL-TV 11 and the play-by-play voice of the Baltimore Ravens, who has become one of the most recognizable voices in Baltimore sports.

Sashi Brown

President of the Baltimore Ravens, who praised Sandusky's exceptional talent and long-lasting connection with Ravens fans.

Dan Joerres

President and General Manager of WBAL-TV 11, who acknowledged Sandusky's significant contributions to the station and the city of Baltimore.

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What they’re saying

“This isn't a decision I made lightly. I have loved sharing the stories that shape Baltimore sports with viewers, and I have loved every minute of sharing Ravens games with listeners. But the time has come for me to pass those batons and pour more of my attention on my family. I want to thank every viewer and every listener who shared this journey with me. It's been an honor. And yes, for my broadcasting career, 'The hay is in the barn.' And it feels right.”

— Gerry Sandusky

“As the voice of the Ravens, Gerry brought a distinct flavor and aptitude that captured every emotion of Baltimore football. While Gerry's in-game knowledge was second to none, it was his exceptional talent to 'illustrate with words' that truly sparked a long-lasting connection amongst our fans. From thrilling championship victories to agonizing defeats, Gerry witnessed it all—consistently doing so with a style marked by professionalism, passion and Maryland pride.”

— Sashi Brown, President, Baltimore Ravens

“It's not often a Sports Director can claim nearly four decades of service to a single television station. Gerry has made significant contributions to WBAL-TV 11 and to the city of Baltimore. He will always be a respected member of our family.”

— Dan Joerres, President and General Manager, WBAL-TV 11

What’s next

Sandusky's final newscast is set for April 17, 2026, marking the end of his nearly 42-year broadcasting career.

The takeaway

Gerry Sandusky's retirement as the 'Voice of the Ravens' and longtime WBAL-TV 11 sports director represents the end of an era for Baltimore sports fans, who have grown to love his distinctive style and connection to the city's teams over the past four decades.