SEATTLE — For decades, Rick Rizzs has been the voice of the Seattle Mariners, narrating the highs, lows, and unforgettable moments of a franchise that has seen its fair share of triumph and heartbreak. But in a rare and candid interview before a live broadcast, the longtime broadcaster opened up about something more personal — the relentless passage of time, his own aging body, and the undying fire that keeps him behind the microphone every single game.
“At my age, I know the days are numbered to sit here and watch these young players give everything on the field for the Mariners,” Rizzs admitted. “My body isn’t what it used to be, but my passion hasn’t faded. Every single day I’m still here, I give it my all — because this team, this game, and these fans deserve nothing less.”
It was a moment that resonated beyond the usual play-by-play chatter. For Mariners fans, Rizzs is more than a commentator; he’s a living chronicle of the franchise, a bridge between the history and the present, and a constant companion during 162-game marathons. His voice has been the soundtrack to some of Seattle’s most dramatic comebacks, heartbreaking losses, and the rare glimpses of postseason glory.
Yet even as Rizzs continues to call the game with precision and energy, he acknowledges the inevitable truth of aging. “I feel it,” he said, his tone measured but tinged with emotion. “There are nights when my legs ache a bit more, my voice might not carry the same weight, but the drive — the drive to see these young players chase every ball, to describe the moments they create — that’s as strong as ever.”
Rizzs’ reflection comes at a pivotal time for the Mariners, who have invested heavily in youth over the past few seasons. Rising stars like Julio Rodríguez, George Kirby, and Logan Gilbert have energized the fan base, bringing speed, power, and intensity to a team hungry for sustained success. For Rizzs, watching that energy unfold live is both exhilarating and bittersweet.
“It’s a privilege to witness their growth,” Rizzs said. “But I also know that my window to be here and experience it firsthand is limited. That awareness changes the way you approach every game, every inning, every play. You savor it more. You give more of yourself.”
And give, he does. For over 30 years, Rizzs has been a consummate professional, preparing tirelessly for each broadcast, delivering sharp insight, and keeping fans connected to the game. His passion isn’t just about announcing; it’s about honoring the sport, the team, and the people who love them. “Each day I’m in this booth, I try to leave everything I have on the table. That’s how I feel about it. That’s how I feel about the Mariners. That’s how I feel about the fans,” he explained.
It’s that commitment that has cemented Rizzs’ legacy. In an era of fleeting media personalities, his voice has been a constant, a familiar presence that carries through generations of Mariners supporters. Young fans may know him as the one calling Julio Rodríguez’s towering homers; older fans remember him narrating Edgar Martínez’s clutch hits or Ken Griffey Jr.’s electrifying plays. For all, he remains a symbol of consistency and dedication.
“I don’t know how many more seasons I have left,” Rizzs confessed. “But while I’m still here, you can bet I’ll give everything — every ounce of energy, every word, every call. Because this team, this sport, and these fans…they deserve nothing less than my very best.”
As the Mariners continue their pursuit of playoff success, Rizzs’ words serve as a poignant reminder that some heroes aren’t measured by home runs or strikeouts. Sometimes, they’re measured by the passion and dedication they bring, day in and day out, rain or shine, inning after inning.
For Rick Rizzs, age may slow the body, but it will never diminish the heart behind the microphone. And for Mariners fans, that voice — familiar, passionate, unwavering — remains one of the most treasured parts of their team’s story.
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