Forget the laughter and camaraderie. Michael Kay, the voice of the New York Yankees, is seemingly severing ties with his former radio co-host.
Recently, Kay sent a stark message to former ESPN Radio colleague Peter Rosenberg, declaring, “you’re dead to me,” a revelation made public by Rosenberg on Don, Hahn and Rosenberg.
According to remarks by Don La Greca, the discord erupted over Rosenberg praising another media personality, a gesture that did not sit well with Kay.
“He’s upset with Peter because Peter doesn’t believe he’s the best in a certain area,” La Greca commented. “Rosenberg didn’t disrespect him. Acknowledging someone else doesn’t diminish you. That’s absurd.”
The compliment triggering the spat occurred during Rosenberg’s Cheap Heat wrestling podcast, where he heaped praise on Joe Tessitore. Rosenberg described Tessitore as “the best point guard I’ve perhaps ever collaborated with,” emphasizing how wrestling coverage is hard to picture without him.
Tessitore, the current voice of WWE SmackDown, often partners with Rosenberg on pre-shows and special segments. His background also includes calling college football and boxing, alongside a brief stint as a play-by-play announcer for Monday Night Football.
Kay, Rosenberg, and La Greca collaborated on ESPN Radio from 2015 until Kay opted for a solo career in 2024. Rosenberg was candid in discussing their fallout.
“Michael is the center of attention at every gathering and the somber presence at every lament,” Rosenberg pointed out. “Everything revolves around Michael.”
Tensions became evident shortly after Kay mentioned earlier this month how his off-air relationship with Rosenberg had deteriorated since their professional split.
For what it’s worth, Kay isn’t going anywhere. He inked a multi-year extension with the YES Network in March 2023 and will remain the voice of the Yankees.
