A legendary sports broadcaster who became a prominent figure in New York over the course of more than three decades Al Trautwig has passed away at the age of 68. He died on Sunday at his home on Long Island due to complications related to cancer, as confirmed by his son, Alex, to The Associated Press.
Trautwig was well-known for his role in MSG Network’s coverage of various New York teams, including the NBA’s Knicks, the NHL’s Rangers, and Major League Baseball’s Yankees. His broadcasting career also spanned several prestigious international sporting events. He covered 16 Olympic Games, the Indianapolis 500, the U.S. Open tennis tournament, and the Tour de France. Over his illustrious career, Trautwig earned four national Emmy Awards and more than 30 regional Emmys from New York, a testament to his dedication and skill as a broadcaster.
MSG Networks, in a heartfelt statement, honored Trautwig’s contribution to New York sports coverage, describing him as an iconic figure who brought unmatched passion and energy to the teams he covered. The network acknowledged that his legacy in the world of sports broadcasting in New York is monumental. “He leaves behind one of the great legacies in New York sports broadcasting history,” MSG Networks said, offering condolences to his family and friends.
For countless viewers across the city, Trautwig’s voice was synonymous with big games. His calm, yet compelling, storytelling style helped elevate the atmosphere of games at places like Madison Square Garden and Yankee Stadium. Despite the intensity of the events he covered, Trautwig rarely raised his voice, letting the excitement of the moment speak for itself.
Alan Hahn, a studio analyst for MSG Networks, described Trautwig as a close friend, mentor, and a supportive figure in his career. Hahn praised his colleague’s exceptional versatility, noting that Trautwig’s deep passion for sports allowed him to excel in multiple disciplines, from baseball to basketball to hockey, as well as his standout contributions to Olympic broadcasts. Hahn also fondly remembered Trautwig’s ability to use his voice like a seasoned tenor, bringing depth and intensity to every broadcast.
Al Trautwig’s death marks the loss of an irreplaceable voice in the sports broadcasting world. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy, having touched the lives of many sports fans and colleagues over the years.