David Cone announces he's leaving YES Network
Photo credit: Newsday Photo | Teammates congratulate pitcher David Cone upon the completion of a perfect game against the Montreal Expos at Yankee Stadium, July 18, 1999.
David Cone has left YES after two seasons as an analyst, the network announced yesterday.
The official word came as no surprise after months of speculation that he would leave, perhaps for a role with the players' union.
Cone, whose contract was up after 2009, cited a desire to spend more time with his family.
"If I do return to broadcasting, YES would be my first choice," he said in a statement released by the network. "I've enjoyed a great relationship with everyone at YES and I leave on the best of terms."
YES said, "David was a valued member of our team, and he will be missed."
Spokesman Eric Handler said the network is "looking into a number of scenarios" for 2010, including the possibility of not replacing Cone. "We're very happy with our existing lineup," he said.
That includes analysts Ken Singleton, John Flaherty, Al Leiter and Paul O'Neill and play-by-play announcer Michael Kay.
Unless O'Neill is willing to expand his limited schedule, something he has been reluctant to do, YES figures to add someone.
Tino Martinez is believed to be a leading candidate. He has little TV experience beyond a limited role with ESPN as a studio analyst.
