Ray Fosse steps away from A’s broadcast booth amid battle with cancer

Part of A’s broadcasts for the last 35 years

Longtime Oakland A’s broadcaster Ray Fosse is stepping away from the booth, effective immediately, for health reasons. Fosse, the A’s, and NBC Sports California released joint statements Thursday afternoon.

Fosse’s statement:

“Along with my wife of 51 years, Carol, today we share that I have been silently battling cancer for the past 16 years. Given my current medical condition, I am taking a step away from the A’s and NBC Sports California effective immediately, to focus on my treatment and to be with my family during this time. My wife, Carol, and I extend our gratitude to the baseball community, and community at large, for your thoughts and prayers.”

The A’s and NBCS:

“The Oakland A’s and NBC Sports California send our unconditional support to Ray during this challenging time. Our priority is Ray’s health and well-being. He is and will always be part of our family, and we will help him and Carol in every way we can throughout Ray’s recovery.”

They are requesting privacy during this very difficult time.

Fosse joined the A’s as a player in 1973 and won two World Series championships while wearing green and gold. After hanging up his spikes, he began his broadcast career with the A’s in 1986, and he’s been part of the radio and TV broadcasts ever since as an analyst.

After 35 years calling the team’s games, Fosse is a huge part of the A’s heart and soul, and the outpouring of support from everybody who knows him gives an idea of how beloved he is. On the occasions that I’ve personally interacted with him as a fellow media member, I’ve found him to be the friendliest, warmest person you could hope for, happy to stop and talk some ball with anyone.

His presence on the broadcasts will be sorely missed, and Athletics Nation wishes him the best in his recovery.