The Blue Jays are looking at 4 options for Buck Martinez' replacement with a few surprises
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Victor William
Feb 7, 2026 (8:52)
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Photo credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
The search for Buck Martinez’s successor is officially on, and the list of candidates feels like a "Who's Who" of recent Blue Jays alumni.
With Buck hanging up the headset after a heartbreaking Game 7 loss in the 2025 World Series, the booth at Rogers Centre has a massive void to fill.
Sportsnet has internal options, but replacing a legend requires more than just baseball knowledge—it requires a soul connection to the fanbase.
Kevin Barker (Drafted 3rd round, 1996 by Milwaukee) is the loudest option in the room, literally and figuratively.
He brings an unfiltered, "tell it like it is" style that works on radio, but might be too abrasive for a full 162-game TV slate.
Joe Siddall (Drafted Free Agent, 1987 by Montreal) is the cerebral choice, a former catcher who breaks down the game with surgical precision.
Fans love his work on Blue Jays Central, but his serious demeanor is a sharp contrast to Buck's folksy charm.
Caleb Joseph (Drafted 7th round, 2008 by Baltimore) has the energy and the modern "catcher's eye" that could vibe well with Dan Shulman.
He’s younger, funnier, and understands the modern game, making him a dark horse to steal the job.
Chris Leroux (Drafted 7th round, 2005 by Florida) has been grinding on the radio side, but he feels like a long shot compared to the other heavyweights.
The next voice must respect the past while embracing the future
Replacing Buck isn't just about calling strikes; it's about being the comforting voice that talks us through the long summer nights.
Whoever takes the chair next to Dan Shulman has to understand that they aren't just an analyst—they are a companion to millions of Canadians.
Buck was the bridge between the glory days of the 90s and the current contending window.
The new guy needs to build his own legacy without trying to be a "Buck Martinez impersonator."
Personally, I'd lean toward Siddall for the expertise, but Joseph brings a "fan-first" excitement that is hard to ignore.
Regardless of the choice, Opening Day 2026 will sound different, and it will take time for our ears—and hearts—to adjust.
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| POLL | ||
FEVRIER 7|448 ANSWERS The Blue Jays are looking at 4 options for Buck Martinez' replacement with a few surprises Is Joe Siddall the safest and best choice to replace Buck Martinez? | ||
| Yes | 329 | 73.4 % |
| No | 119 | 26.6 % |
| List of polls | ||