Rick Rizzs, the cherished voice of the Seattle Mariners, plans to retire after the 2025 season, prioritizing family time after a storied 50-year career.

SEATTLE — Rick Rizzs, the beloved voice of the Seattle Mariners for more than four decades, announced earlier this year that he will retire at the end of the 2025 season, capping a broadcasting career that spans more than 50 years.

Rizzs, 72, said the decision came down to family. He lost his son two and a half years ago, and his three grandchildren — ages 20, 17 and 11 — are growing up fast.

“I just thought where I’m at in my life, I’m 72 years of age, my grandkids are getting older,” Rizzs said. “I just wanna spend more time with my grandkids.”

Rizzs was first hired by the Mariners in 1983 to partner with Hall of Fame broadcaster Dave Niehaus. Over his 41 seasons in Seattle, he became known for his infectious energy and memorable calls, including his signature home run calls that have punctuated some of the franchise’s most celebrated moments.

He credits Niehaus with shaping the broadcaster he became.

“Dave Niehaus meant everything to me,” Rizzs said. “It was his knowledge of the game and his ability to be one of the greatest storytellers of all time, which made him one of the greatest broadcasters of all time.”

Before joining Seattle, Rizzs spent eight years in the minor leagues and three seasons with the Detroit Tigers. In total, he has called games at the professional level for 44 years.

Rizzs said the grind of a major league schedule, constant travel and time away from home, played a role in his decision to step away.

“The travel kind of gets to you. When you’re home, you’re really not home,” Rizzs said.

Off the air, Rizzs co-founded Toys for Kids, a nonprofit that has spent the past 30 years purchasing new toys for children in the Pacific Northwest during the holiday season and awarding college scholarships.

Rizzs said he is grateful for the outpouring of support from fans since making his retirement announcement.

“I just want to say a big thank you to everybody who’s been there for me,” Rizzs said. “I hope I’ve been there for you.”