SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — For the first time in its history, the voice of the San Francisco Giants’ waterfront ballpark will not be Renel Brooks-Moon’s.
The Giants’ longtime public address announcer will step away after 24 seasons, the club announced Monday. Less than three weeks away from their home opener, the official release did not name a successor or specify who would lead the ceremonies on April 5.
“As a Bay Area native, it has been the honor of my lifetime to serve on the mic, and in the community for the Giants for 24 years,” Brooks-Moon said in a statement. “My very first game on April 11, 2000, I shall never forget because the job has always been bigger than me. Representation matters, and it is my great hope that my time in the booth has inspired little girls, young women and people of color to pursue their dreams even if those dreams seem impossible, because impossible dreams can come true.”
Having been on the microphone for the Giants’ three World Series runs, Matt Cain’s perfect game and Barry Bonds’ pursuits of home run history, Brooks-Moon’s voice has become synonymous with the ballpark now known as Oracle Park.
When she left her career as an Emmy-winning television host to take over the job previously held by Sherry Davis, it was rare to hear a woman’s voice over its public address system. In 2002, Brooks-Moon became not only the first female public address announcer for a World Series, but the first woman to PA a championship game in any professional sport.
Now, at least two other MLB teams feature women as their PA announcers: the New York Mets (Marysol Castro) and the A’s (Amelia Schimmel).
Taking on the title of “announcer emeritus,” Brooks-Moon will have the booth named in her honor during a game this season.
“Renel has been the familiar and inspirational voice for generations of players and fans at Oracle Park,” Giants President and CEO Larry Baer said in a statement. “As an ambassador for the organization and a respected leader, Renel has been a Giant voice in the ballpark and in the community, and will be a Forever Giant. It will be a fitting tribute to name the PA booth in her honor.”
Brooks-Moon, 65, had her contract expire in December. According to the release, the two sides had “extensive discussions” about an extension, but they “mutually and amicably” agreed to part ways. While she will remain involved in the community through her work as a volunteer, activist and mentor, Brooks-Moon left one final message before she signed off for the last time.
“To my successor, best of luck, and enjoy every minute of it! To the talented young control room crew, I could not be prouder of you all. And last, but certainly not the least, the fans,” she said in the statement. “100% the best fans in all of baseball, many of whom have become personal friends. I can’t thank you enough for your overwhelming kindness and support. I will miss you all the most. Go Get ‘Em Bo Mel!”