A press release from the Cincinnati Reds:

FOX Sports Ohio broadcaster George Grande, the television play-by-play voice of the Cincinnati Reds for the past 17 years, announced he is opting out of the final year of his contract. After a 45-year career in the  broadcasting business, Grande has decided to conclude his current role as a full-time Reds announcer to spend more time at home.

"The last 17 years have been a wonderful ride with FOX Sports Ohio and the Reds, but I have decided to opt out of the final year of my contract to spend more time closer to home," said Grande. "I've enjoyed every minute with my friends at FOX, the Reds and so many fans who have made our time in Cincinnati fantastic.  Both FOX and the Reds have great leadership and direction. I fully expect to see the Reds and FOX celebrating a trip to the World Series in 2010, and I will be rooting them on!"

Grande's preference and request is to leave his position quietly.

"It will be hard to imagine starting the 2010 season without George Grande sitting in the play-by-play chair. Rarely does this industry come across a person as caring, dedicated and genuinely personable as George. His tireless work ethic will serve as an example for generations of announcers," said Tom Farmer, Executive Producer, FOX Sports Ohio.

A native of New Haven, Connecticut, Grande has covered Major League Baseball since 1965 and has been broadcasting Major League Baseball games since 1989.

"George Grande is one of baseball's most beloved and respected broadcasters. We thank him for his 17 years of dedication and service as a face and voice of our organization. We will miss working alongside him, and we know our fans will miss watching him on FOX Sports Ohio," stated Bob Castellini, Reds CEO and President.

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