Guy Junker is a sports broadcaster known for his work in the Pittsburgh area. He has a long and respected career in sports journalism, covering a wide range of sports events and teams, particularly focusing on Pittsburgh sports. Junker has worked for various media outlets, including television and radio, and is recognized for his insightful commentary and extensive knowledge of sports. His career highlights include coverage of major sporting events and teams, particularly those related to Pittsburgh, such as the Steelers, Penguins, and Pirates. His engaging style and deep understanding of sports have made him a prominent figure in sports broadcasting.
Guy Junker became a legend in sports broadcasting over a 44-year career in Pittsburgh, covering events like the Super Bowls, the 1979 World Series, and several Penguins Stanley Cup runs.
His retirement was short-lived. “I did my last sportscast on a Saturday night and was here the next day for a Sunday afternoon game against the Padres,” Junker said, referring to his role as public-address announcer at PNC Park. “My wife joked, ‘Your retirement lasted 12 hours.'”
A lifelong baseball enthusiast who played until age 56, Junker is happy with the change. I met with Junker at a recent game to discuss his new role, his love for baseball, and his career journey.
“I enjoy openly rooting for the Pirates,” said Junker, who turns 68 on Sunday. “Even though I had to stay neutral in TV, radio, and talk shows, I always wanted Pittsburgh sports teams to win.”
Junker’s voice has become a comforting presence at PNC Park. Following Tim DeBacco’s retirement in March 2022, Junker emerged as a standout among local media personalities who filled in, including Andrew Stockey, Larry Richert, and Rick Dayton. Junker’s availability for home games, his distinctive voice, and deep understanding of baseball made him an ideal successor.
A Baldwin native, Junker played high school and collegiate baseball at Penn State Greater Allegheny. His father, Walt, pitched in the minor leagues before serving in Korea. Junker continued playing in adult leagues until plantar fasciitis ended his playing days at 56.
Junker’s connection to baseball runs deep. He and his father attended the first game at Three Rivers Stadium together, and for his father’s 70th birthday, they watched a series at Wrigley Field. Junker also coached his son, Dylan, from T-ball through his mid-teens, and met his wife, Darla, through the sport.
Junker’s path to announcing began when someone donated sound equipment to his Little League in Shaler, where he announced games. Despite his successful broadcasting career with B-94, KBL (Fox Sports), and WTAE Channel 4, Junker initially hesitated to shift to public announcing, but found the transition smoother than expected.
“Once I got comfortable with my voice out there, adding inflection became easier,” Junker said. Although public speaking made him nervous, he found announcing at the ballpark a natural fit.
A friend from his B-94 days, Heidi Narr, who works with the Pirates’ scoreboard team, suggested the PA announcer role. Initially, Junker managed walk-up music himself, but that task has since been delegated, easing his workload. He appreciates the changes in the game, like the designated hitter and pitch clock, which have made the job more enjoyable.
“I was just trying not to make mistakes that first year,” Junker said. “Now I’m more comfortable, and the job has gotten easier.”
For Junker, the role remains fun. A scorekeeping enthusiast, he even kept the scorebook for Hank Aaron’s 715th home run. Junker enjoys a prime setup for watching games and continues to relish his connection to baseball.
