Charley Steiner (born August 30, 1946) is an American sportscaster, television and radio announcer, and former minor‑league baseball player. He is best known for his work as a play‑by‑play announcer for Major League Baseball (MLB) broadcasts and for his tenure as a sports anchor for television networks.
Early Life and Education
- Born in New York City, United States.
- Attended the University of Miami, where he played baseball as a catcher for the Miami Hurricanes.
Playing Career
- Drafted by the Chicago White Sox in the 13th round of the 1969 MLB Draft.
- Played four seasons (1969‑1972) in the minor leagues, primarily as a catcher, reaching the Triple‑A level with the Tucson Toros (AAA Pacific Coast League).
Broadcasting Career
Radio
- Began his broadcasting career in 1973 as a sportscaster with WCKY in Cincinnati, Ohio.
- Served as the sports director for KMOX in St. Louis (1979‑1985), where he also called St. Louis Cardinals games.
Television
- Joined ESPN in 1987 as a studio host and play‑by‑play announcer, covering a variety of sports including baseball, college football, and college basketball.
- Became a regular MLB play‑by‑play commentator for ESPN’s “Sunday Night Baseball” and “Wednesday Night Baseball” broadcasts during the 1990s.
- In 1995, moved to NBC Sports, providing play‑by‑play for MLB postseason games, including the 1996 World Series.
- Served as a studio host for NBC’s “The NBA on NBC” and “NFL on NBC.”
MLB Network
- Joined MLB Network at its launch in 2009, where he frequently appears on “MLB Tonight” and serves as a play‑by‑play announcer for select games.
Notable Contributions
- Known for his distinctive, enthusiastic announcing style and his signature catchphrase “Out of the park!” during home‑run calls.
- Has contributed to coverage of multiple Olympic Games, the Super Bowl, and the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament.
Awards and Honors
- Recipient of several local broadcasting awards, including the Missouri Broadcasters Hall of Fame induction (1998).
- Honored by the Chicago White Sox organization for his contributions to the sport and media.
Personal Life
- Resides in the Los Angeles area.
- Married with two children; his son, Brian Steiner, is also involved in sports media.
References
- Biographical entries in standard sports reference works (e.g., “Baseball’s Broadcast Legends”).
- Archived press releases from ESPN, NBC Sports, and MLB Network.
- Interviews and profiles published in major newspapers such as The New York Times and Los Angeles Times.
