Red Sox Hall of Fame broadcaster Joe Castiglione announces retirement

"His brilliance in the booth is matched only by his exceptional character."

Joe Castiglione, the radio voice of the Red Sox for 42 years, announced his retirement Sunday.

Castiglione, who has called more than 6,500 games – including four World Series titles – has the longest play-by-play career of any announcer in franchise history. He received the Ford C. Frick Award from the Hall of Fame in July for his contributions to the sport.

“Joe is one of the greatest in baseball broadcasting,” said Red Sox Principal Owner John Henry. “His recognition by the Hall of Fame in July punctuated a career of vivid storytelling that has brought the game to life for generations of listeners. His brilliance in the booth is matched only by his exceptional character.”

The Red Sox will honor Castiglione before their final regular-season game Sunday, Sept. 29, against the Tampa Bay Rays.

He’ll remain with the club in an honorary ambassador role, where he’ll make appearances with clients and fans, work special events, and fill in on game broadcasts as needed.

Castiglione, 77, cited spending time with family as his main reason for the decision.

“While I will miss the daily interactions with baseball people and talking to the fans of Red Sox Nation, I think this is the right decision for my family and myself,” Castiglione said in a release.

Castiglione, born in Hamden, Conn., graduated from Colgate University and earned his master’s degree from Syracuse University’s S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications.

He’s also called games for the Cleveland Cavaliers and announced college basketball on NESN. Castiglione taught journalism at Northeastern University, Franklin Pierce University, and Emerson College. He’s contributed to Jimmy Fund fundraising and is a published author.

Castiglione and his wife, Jan, reside in Marshfield. They have three children and six grandchildren.