The much beloved longtime public-address announcer for the Yankees, Bob Sheppard, officially retired today. His friend and agent Paul Doherty broke the news to the Times, telling them, “I think Bob just wants to take it easy and no longer have the pressure of, ‘Can he? Will he? Or won’t he?’" Sheppard is 98-years-old and has been introducing Bombers to the plate since 1951. Health problems have kept him sidelined for portions of the last few seasons—including last year's final Opening Day at the old Stadium. Doherty said, “I’m happy to say that Bob is still doing well enough to drive a car...Now on to him seeing his 100th birthday in a year and a half.” There is no word yet on who will replace Sheppard, other than it will not be previous backup Jim Hall. Sheppard's voice will still be heard in the new Yankee Stadium announcing Derek Jeter—the Yankee captain had previously asked Sheppard to record his introduction so that it could be used permanently.