Al Trautwig, a beloved figure in New York sports broadcasting and a familiar presence at international sporting events for over thirty years, has passed away at the age of 68.

According to his son Alex, Trautwig succumbed to complications from cancer on Sunday at his home in Long Island.

Throughout his career, Trautwig was integral to the MSG Network’s pre- and post-game coverage of the NBA’s New York Knicks, NHL’s New York Rangers, and MLB’s New York Yankees. His impressive résumé also includes coverage of 16 Olympic Games, the Indianapolis 500, the Tour de France, and the US Open tennis tournament. Trautwig’s outstanding contributions to sports journalism earned him four national Emmy Awards and over thirty local Emmys.

“Al was an essential part of MSG Networks’ coverage of the Knicks, Rangers, and Yankees for more than three decades, and his enthusiasm for the teams he reported on was unmistakable,” stated MSG Networks. “He leaves behind a remarkable legacy in New York sports broadcasting. Our hearts go out to Al’s family and friends during this difficult time.”

For countless fans tuning into games across New York, Trautwig’s voice was often the first they recognized. His talent for storytelling enhanced the atmosphere of significant events at Madison Square Garden or Yankee Stadium, often without needing to raise his voice.

Alan Hahn, a studio analyst for MSG Networks who considered Trautwig a friend and mentor, praised his abilities: “He was an exceptional host who could make every game feel like a must-see event.”

“We’ve lost a legendary voice in sports broadcasting, but we’ve lost even more than that,” Hahn shared on social media. “Al Trautwig had a distinctive voice that resonated like that of a tenor in music, adding depth and emotion to every game. His passion for sports knew no bounds, spanning baseball, basketball, and hockey, not to mention his phenomenal work during the Olympics.”