The Toronto Blue Jays will honor veteran broadcaster Buck Martinez by inducting him into the newly established Hall of Excellence at Rogers Centre this Saturday. Martinez, who recently retired after covering over 4,000 games, dedicated almost 40 years to the Blue Jays as a player, manager, and commentator.
Expressing his gratitude on CBC Radio’s Metro Morning, Martinez described the induction as a significant honor that he never anticipated during his tenure with the team. He credited Jays fans for their unwavering support and for treating him like family.
Known for his distinctive broadcasting style marked by phrases like “a swing and a drive” and “get outta here ball,” Martinez revealed that these catchphrases were inspired by his return to Toronto in 2010 and influenced by his time in Milwaukee.
Reflecting on his transition to retirement after a lifelong involvement in professional baseball since 1967, Martinez highlighted the challenges of not participating in spring training for the first time. Despite intending to be part of the Jays’ 50th season celebrations, health concerns, including battling cancer for the second time in 2025 (initially diagnosed in 2022), led him to step back.
Fortunately, Martinez shared that he is now cancer-free and in good health. The Hall of Excellence, where Martinez will be enshrined, will pay tribute to key figures who shaped the Blue Jays franchise, alongside the current 11 members on the Level of Excellence.
Having initially felt apprehensive upon his move to Toronto from the Kansas City Royals and Milwaukee Brewers in 1981, Martinez admitted misjudging the city’s reception towards baseball. He praised the city’s passion for the Blue Jays and acknowledged Toronto as a remarkable destination for baseball.
Recalling last year’s World Series as one of the best he witnessed, particularly highlighting the intense Game 7 and the exceptional team chemistry, Martinez expressed admiration for the sport’s challenges, even for top players like Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who faced difficulties during the Jays’ tough season.