Mike Shannon, who won two World Series championships as a player with the Cardinals before embarking on a 50-year broadcasting career with the team, died on Sunday, the team announced. He was 83.
A St. Louis native, Shannon debuted with the Cardinals in 1962 at age 22. He saw increased playing time in ’64, playing a key role in guiding the team to a World Series victory over the Yankees in seven games. Shannon became a full-time starter in ’66, and again helped lead St. Louis to a title in ’67, this time over the Red Sox.
After his playing career was cut short by kidney disease, Shannon transitioned into broadcasting, pairing with Hall of Fame announcer Jack Buck on the team’s radio broadcast in 1972. He maintained the position for 50 years, retiring in 2021. Shannon was inducted into the Cardinals Hall of Fame in ’14.
He was our voice, our friend, and an icon for generations.
— St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) April 30, 2023
We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Cardinals legend and St. Louis native son Mike Shannon. pic.twitter.com/4JPRbnUUaj
“He was our voice, our friend, and an icon for generations. We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Cardinals legend and St. Louis native son Mike Shannon,” the Cardinals wrote in a statement. “Mike Shannon played for the Cardinals for nine seasons, and was vital to the team’s 1964 and 1967 World Series titles. He hit the final home run at Sportsman’s Park as well as the first Cardinals home run at Busch Memorial Stadium in 1966.
“After retirement, Shannon joined the Cardinals’ broadcast team in 1972, where he would spend 50 years as the team’s radio voice. His voice, stories and unbridled passion for the game became the soundtrack to Cardinals baseball for generations of fans.”
