Buck Martinez’s replacement has been named, and he’s someone that Toronto Blue Jays fans will recognize.
And like Buck, he’s a former MLB catcher.
Joe Siddall has been picked by Sportsnet to be the new colour commentator on Blue Jays television broadcasts, according to a report from Rob Longley of the Toronto Sun. He’ll call 125-130 games alongside Dan Shulman next season, Longley adds, with Caleb Joseph handling the rest. Hazel Mae is expected to continue as Sportsnet’s sideline reporter.
Siddall, 58, played parts of four seasons in Major League Baseball, including two with the Montreal Expos. The Windsor, Ont. native also played for the Florida Marlins and Detroit Tigers, before wrapping up his pro baseball career in 2000.
Joe Siddall (left) has worked as a Sportsnet studio analyst since 2018 (@snetcampbell)
Siddall has certainly paid his dues, joining the Blue Jays radio broadcast team in 2014, before becoming a Sportsnet studio analyst on television in 2018. He had been a regular fill-in for Martinez, while the Blue Jays legend was on leave to deal with health issues.
Martinez announced his retirement in February, following an incredible run with the Blue Jays, which began in 1981. During that time, he served as a player, manager, and broadcaster.
The Blue Jays wrap up their spring training schedule on March 22. Opening Day is set for March 27 at Rogers Centre against the Athletics.