Sheppard to Announce Jeter

Because of ill health, Yankees' institution Bob Sheppard won't be on hand today to man the PA. He'll still be announcing Jeter, though:

Sheppard, the Yankees' public address announcer since 1951, will not be able to attend the game as he recovers from health issues that have limited his workload. But shortstop Derek Jeter plans to have Sheppard introduce him for his at-bats, the first of which will come in the bottom of the first inning against the Blue Jays' Roy Halladay. Jeter has had Sheppard's introduction recorded on tape.

"It's unfortunate, because one of the first things I looked forward to when I was called up was coming to Yankee Stadium and hearing him say my name," Jeter said on Monday. "I had Bob Sheppard record introducing me. I'll always come to the plate with Bob Sheppard."

That's pretty cool. And maybe it will start a trend. Instead of personalized music, maybe players will start getting customized intros from famous people. I think I'd go with David McCoulough. Or maybe Walken.