Steve Stone announced today that he will not be returning to the TV booth, calling Chicago Cubs games. This is sad for me on a number of different levels. The voice of Steve Stone, calling the Cubs games, has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. He comforts me. He has a great mind for the game, and a great sense of humor. All of these things will be missed by me, as well as millions of other Cubs fans across the nation.
Here’s Steve’s letter of resignation:
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Dear Cubs fans,
Since I put on a Cubs uniform in 1974, I’ve seen lots of Cub’s history. There has been heartache and joy, agony and ecstasy, not to mention, 21 managers and 10 general managers.
Through all of these years and more than a few broadcast partners, I have always felt a strong connection to the greatest, most loyal fans in baseball, Cub fans. My love for the city of Chicago and the people who came to beautiful Wrigley Field has been a constant. Over 3 million of you Cub fans came to the ballpark in 2004 and the TV ratings showed you watched the Cub broadcasts in staggering numbers.
Unfortunately, the 2004 season did not end as we had hoped. It was devastating for all of us who invested our hearts, our time and in many cases our lives, in the hopes and dreams of the Cubs winning a world championship.
I am sure you have read many things about this past season and my involvement in one or two controversies. However, you have never heard my story or my perspective of the events that have brought us to this point in time. As has always been my personal policy, it is not my intention to divulge the content of private conversations I’ve had with others. Likewise, I do not want to be forced into sharing my side of the story. I came into Chicago on the high road with my credibility and integrity. Thirty years later, I choose to leave the same way.
The phrase I used that angered certain people was “I regret nothing.” Well folks, I was wrong about that and want to set the record straight. I regret I won’t be calling another Cubs game on WGN-TV for the greatest fans in baseball, the fans of the Chicago Cubs.
It’s been a great ride. I will never forget you. Most importantly, I thank you all for every minute of happiness, you, the fans have given me.
Best regards,
Steve Stone
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Very sad.
