Buck Martinez' return marks the beginning of the end for the Toronto Blue Jays legend

Jan 26, 2026 (5:29 PM)

Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images

Buck Martinez is returning to the Sportsnet booth for the 2026 season but his recent cancer battle suggests this could be his final ride.

The voice that has defined Toronto baseball for four decades is prepping for one more summer at the Rogers Centre.

At 77 years old the former catcher and manager remains the heartbeat of every Blue Jays broadcast across Canada.

But the reality of his health situation last season has fans rightfully wondering how much longer the legend can continue.

Martinez was forced to step away from the microphone last May after a terrifying recurrence of cancer was discovered.

Doctors found that the disease had spread to his lungs during a routine checkup while the team was in Houston.

The legend missed over two months of action while undergoing aggressive chemotherapy treatments to fight the good fight once again.

He eventually made a triumphant return in August and helped call the team's late season surge into the postseason.

The emotional weight of his return resonated with a fan base that views him as much more than just a broadcaster.

Dan Shulman has been his primary partner during this stretch but the booth has felt different during Buck's medical absences.

Blue Jays fans are already calling for his immediate induction into the Level of Excellence before the season ends.

Sources indicate that Sportsnet is working on a schedule that keeps him fresh while maintaining his signature analysis.

His "Eye Test" for catchers remains the gold standard in the industry regardless of the advanced metrics era.

Last season the Jays finished with the best record in the American League while Buck watched from the sidelines.

His 17 year playing career and managerial stint give him a macro perspective that simply cannot be replaced by a newcomer.

The move to bring him back for 2026 feels like a conscious effort to give him a proper send off.

Service time and luxury tax issues dominate the headlines but the human element of the booth still matters most.

Fans are bracing for the possibility that this 162 game grind will be the final soundtrack of their summer.

If this is indeed the end of the road the "Get up ball" calls will hit harder than ever before.

Martinez has always been a symbol of resilience and seeing him back in the dugout will be a victory.

Every broadcast this year will feel like a celebration of a man who gave his entire life to the game.

Previously on Toronto Baseball Insider

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