After decades as the “voice of summer” for Toronto fans, the departure of legend Buck Martinez has left a huge void in the Toronto Blue Jays’ broadcast cabin. But just weeks before the start of the new season, the Canadian team has finally identified who will fill that position – a familiar face to baseball television viewers.

According to multiple Canadian media sources, former MLB player and longtime analyst Joe Siddall will become the new head commentator for Blue Jays games on Sportsnet, replacing Martinez in the broadcast cabin starting in the 2026 season.

This change comes after Buck Martinez officially announced his retirement in early 2026, ending more than four decades of involvement with the Blue Jays in various roles.

Martinez is more than just a broadcaster. He was a player, a coach, and then a television icon of the franchise. From 1987 to 2025, he commented on over 4,000 Blue Jays games – a number that makes him one of the most familiar voices in MLB history.

For generations of Toronto fans, summers were synonymous with Martinez’s distinctive voice in the broadcast cabin. His emotional commentary, deep tactical insight, and approachable style created a unique legacy.

Therefore, when Martinez decided to leave the broadcast cabin at age 77 to spend time with his family, the Blue Jays knew finding a replacement wouldn’t be easy.

Ultimately, their choice wasn’t an unfamiliar face.

Joe Siddall – a former catcher who played in MLB in the 1990s – had been associated with the Blue Jays’ media system for over a decade.

Born in Windsor, Ontario, Siddall began his broadcasting career with the Blue Jays in 2014, joining the radio cabin alongside legendary broadcaster Jerry Howarth. He later transitioned to television as a commentator on Blue Jays Central.

In recent years, Siddall has even filled in for Martinez on several occasions when he was absent due to health reasons or personal scheduling conflicts. This made him the natural candidate for the permanent position when Martinez announced his retirement.

And now, Sportsnet and the Blue Jays have officially given him the opportunity to take on the biggest role of his broadcasting career.

For the 2026 season, Siddall is expected to work alongside renowned play-by-play commentator Dan Shulman, who has been the Blue Jays’ primary voice on Sportsnet for many years.

Shulman – one of Canada’s most renowned sports broadcasters – will continue as the main commentator, while Siddall will become the game strategist.

The pair have actually worked together in many games before when Siddall temporarily replaced Martinez. Therefore, Sportsnet’s management believes the transition will be fairly smooth.

For fans, this feels familiar – even though an era has ended.

However, whoever steps into Buck Martinez’s position will face immense pressure.

Martinez is more than just a commentator; he is an integral part of the Blue Jays’ identity. From the early years of the franchise to the modern playoff seasons, his voice has been present during the most crucial moments.

Siddall understands that.

But his long experience within the Blue Jays system is also why many believe he can handle the role. Not only was Siddall a former professional player, but he was also highly regarded for his straightforward analysis and deep understanding of baseball tactics.

As the Blue Jays prepare for an ambitious season, their broadcast studio is also beginning a new chapter.

After more than 40 years with Buck Martinez, Toronto fans will have to get used to a different voice in the cabin.

But that change also brings hope that the Blue Jays’ emotionally charged broadcast tradition will continue.

Joe Siddall may not be Buck Martinez.

But starting in 2026, he will be tasked with recounting every moment – ​​from explosive home runs to breathtaking games – for millions of Blue Jays fans across Canada.