“Bob Costas Honored with Lifetime Achievement for Secrets Behind the Mic”

Bob Costas—a name synonymous with baseball, a voice that’s part of the sport’s very fabric. This week in New York, the seasoned broadcaster was bestowed the fifth Lifetime Achievement Award by Baseball Digest, a moment as poignant as the crack of a bat connecting with a ball. This honor celebrates those who’ve not just lived the game but have woven their essence into its very narrative.

From calling World Series games to anchoring All-Star events, Costas has painted countless unforgettable moments with his words. His journey with MLB Network since its inception in 2009 has been a testament to his enduring love for the game.

“Baseball hasn’t just been a big part of my career. It’s been a big and ongoing part of my life,” Costas shared with a humble pride, reflecting on his intimate relationship with the sport. “Being called a ‘citizen of the game’ is something I’ve always taken to heart. I hope I’ve contributed something meaningful to it.”

This latest accolade adds to his storied career, where he was previously honored with the Ford C. Frick Award for excellence in baseball broadcasting in 2018. His legacy in baseball storytelling is monumental. In the words of MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred, “His passion for baseball has never wavered, infusing each broadcast with a love and knowledge of the game that is unmatched.”

Emerged from a panel of 19 members, Costas was chosen from a list of illustrious finalists, which included luminaries like Terry Francona, Sandy Koufax, even Bud Selig among others. LEARN MORE.

NEW YORK — Bob Costas has won the fifth Lifetime Achievement Award presented by Baseball Digest.

The longtime broadcaster was honored Thursday with an annual distinction that “recognizes a living individual whose career has been spent in or around Major League Baseball and who has made significant contributions to the game.”

Willie Mays won the inaugural award in 2021, followed by Vin Scully (2022), Joe Torre (2023) and Dusty Baker (2024).

“Baseball hasn’t just been a big part of my career. It’s been a big and ongoing part of my life,” Costas said in a news release. “Someone once said of me, ‘He is a citizen of the game.’ I hope that was true. I hope I have meant something to the game. I know it has meant a great deal to me.”

Costas has hosted or called seven World Series, 10 League Championship Series and eight All-Star Games. He’s been with MLB Network since its inception in 2009. He stopped doing play-by-play following the 2024 postseason but will continue to contribute to the network’s coverage.

He received the National Baseball Hall of Fame’s Ford C. Frick Award in 2018 for major contributions to baseball broadcasting.

“As one of the most decorated sports broadcasters of all-time, Bob Costas’ love of baseball and passion for the game has always been evident,” MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred said. “Bob has been a part of some of the most important moments in MLB history. His vast baseball knowledge and experience has allowed him to provide thoughtful commentary and valuable historical context throughout his career working with MLB’s broadcast partners and MLB Network.”

Costas was chosen in voting by a 19-member panel from a list of 10 finalists that also included Terry Francona, Sandy Koufax, Tony La Russa, Jim Leyland, Lou Piniella and Bud Selig, among others.