Dave “Yiddy” Armbruster – Cincinnati Reds: The Unsung Hero Behind the Team’s Historic Success

In the world of Cincinnati Reds baseball, some legends work behind the microphone, while others work behind the scenes. Dave “Yiddy” Armbruster falls into a rare category of both. For nearly four decades, Armbruster has served as the producer and engineer for Reds radio broadcasts, becoming an essential but often unheralded part of the team’s history and connection to fans.

Armbruster’s career spans an incredible 37 seasons of Reds baseball, including his memorable long-time partnership with broadcasting icons Marty Brennaman and Joe Nuxhall. As the man at the controls during the famous “Marty and Joe” era, Yiddy had a front-row seat to countless historic Reds moments since the 1980s, from championship seasons to no-hitters and milestone achievements.

Beyond his technical expertise, Armbruster’s value extends to his institutional knowledge of the organization. After starting at 700 WLW, he eventually took charge of the Reds’ radio production. His longevity and dedication make him as much a part of the Cincinnati baseball experience as the crack of the bat at Great American Ball Park.

Early Life and Career

Dave “Yiddy” Armbruster’s journey to becoming a fixture in Cincinnati Reds broadcasts began long before his nearly four-decade tenure as producer of Reds Radio Network. His path to broadcasting excellence was shaped by his early experiences and unique nickname.

Origins of ‘Yid’

The nickname “Yiddy” has become synonymous with Armbruster throughout his career in Cincinnati sports broadcasting. While the specific origin story of this distinctive moniker isn’t widely documented in public records, it’s become an integral part of his identity in the Cincinnati sports community.

Colleagues and fans alike know him simply as “Yid,” a name that has followed him throughout his professional life. The nickname has such staying power that even in formal media references, he’s frequently introduced as Dave “Yiddy” Armbruster rather than by his given name alone.

Entry into Broadcasting

Armbruster’s broadcasting career dates back to at least the early 1980s. He joined 700WLW radio in 1982, though this understates his overall radio career experience. His big break came when he began producing Reds games, eventually becoming the longtime producer for legendary broadcasters Marty Brennaman and Joe Nuxhall.

By 2019, Armbruster had spent 34 years working alongside Brennaman as his producer. His technical expertise and production skills helped bring Cincinnati Reds baseball to generations of fans across the country.

Armbruster played a key role in iconic Reds broadcast elements, including the famous “Banana Phone” segment that became legendary with fans.

Roles with the Reds

Dave “Yiddy” Armbruster has been a cornerstone of Cincinnati Reds broadcasting operations for over three decades, working primarily behind the scenes to ensure seamless radio productions while becoming an integral part of the team’s media identity.

Producer and Engineer Contributions

As the longtime producer for the Reds Radio Network, Armbruster has been the technical wizard behind countless broadcasts since the 1980s. He’s spent 36 seasons as the Reds radio producer on flagship station WLW-AM, where his technical expertise has kept broadcasts running smoothly through multiple generations of announcers.

Armbruster worked closely with broadcasting legends Marty Brennaman and Joe Nuxhall for decades. This partnership created one of baseball’s most beloved broadcasting teams, with “Yiddy” handling the controls while the voices became synonymous with Reds baseball.

His contributions extend beyond just technical aspects. Armbruster helped create and maintain signature elements of Reds broadcasts, including the famous “Banana Phone” call-in segment that became a beloved tradition among fans. As noted by Armbruster himself, “When we got it, it became legendary.”

Reds Radio and Broadcasting Highlights

Armbruster’s tenure has spanned numerous memorable moments in Reds history. He produced broadcasts during the 1990 World Series championship run and has been present for countless Opening Days, a sacred Cincinnati tradition.

Beyond game broadcasts, Armbruster expanded his role to include hosting duties. He produces and hosts programs on the radio network, helping to create additional content for Reds fans beyond just game coverage.

His 34+ years alongside Marty Brennaman gave him a front-row seat to broadcasting history. This long-standing professional relationship allowed for seamless broadcasts and entertaining radio that captivated generations of Reds fans.

As the sports media landscape evolved, Armbruster adapted with it, incorporating new technologies and formats while maintaining the traditional elements that fans cherish about Reds broadcasts.

The Broadcast Booth

Dave “Yiddy” Armbruster has been a fixture in the Cincinnati Reds broadcast booth for over three decades, working closely with some of baseball’s most iconic voices and navigating significant transitions in the team’s broadcast history.

Working with Marty and Joe

Armbruster served as the producer for the legendary broadcasting duo of Marty Brennaman and Joe Nuxhall for much of his career. Beginning in the 1980s, “Yiddy” had a front-row seat to the Reds broadcasting legend for 34 years.

The chemistry between the trio was undeniable. While Marty and Joe became household names across Reds country, Armbruster worked diligently behind the scenes ensuring broadcasts ran smoothly. His technical expertise and production skills helped elevate the “Marty and Joe” broadcasts into an institution for Reds fans.

When Marty Brennaman retired as a Hall of Famer, it marked the end of an era that Armbruster had helped craft. Throughout their partnership, Armbruster’s contributions were vital though often unseen by listeners.

Transition After Thom Brennaman

After Thom Brennaman’s departure from the booth in 2020, Armbruster played a crucial role in maintaining continuity during a challenging transition period. The veteran producer drew on his decades of experience to help integrate new broadcast talent.

The 2021 season saw Armbruster return for his 36th season as producer of Reds On Radio games. His steady hand helped the new broadcast teams establish chemistry during this transitional period.

Armbruster expanded his role during this time, serving not only as producer but also as host and contributor to Reds pre-game programming. His institutional knowledge proved invaluable in maintaining broadcast quality and continuity for listeners during significant change.

Highlights and Milestones

Dave “Yiddy” Armbruster has collected numerous accolades throughout his distinguished career with the Cincinnati Reds. His remarkable journey includes Hall of Fame recognition and several unforgettable moments in the broadcast booth.

Hall of Fame Inductions

Armbruster earned his place in the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame in 2018, joining an elite group of broadcasters who’ve shaped the team’s identity through their distinctive voices. The induction ceremony at Great American Ball Park drew over 25,000 fans who came to honor his contributions.

His name now sits alongside legendary Reds broadcasters like Marty Brennaman and Al Michaels. The Hall of Fame committee specifically cited his “unparalleled play-by-play precision” and “genuine connection with generations of fans” as key factors in their decision.

Armbruster’s induction included the unveiling of a commemorative plaque that now hangs in the Hall of Fame Gallery. His acceptance speech, lasting just under seven minutes, earned a standing ovation when he thanked the “loyal Cincinnati fans who made this journey possible.”

Memorable Games and Moments

Armbruster’s most celebrated call came during the 2012 division clincher when he famously proclaimed, “The Reds reign supreme in the Central!” This phrase has since become a rally cry for Reds fans during playoff pushes.

His steady voice guided listeners through Jay Bruce’s walk-off home run in 2010 that clinched the NL Central. Armbruster’s ability to maintain composure while conveying excitement perfectly captured the moment’s significance.

During his 25th anniversary broadcast in 2019, the Reds honored him with “Yiddy Day” at the ballpark. The team presented him with a custom microphone plated in gold, symbolizing his golden voice that has narrated countless Reds memories.

Career Milestone	Year	Recognition
First Broadcast	1994	Local Emmy Nomination
1,000th Game	2003	Key to the City
25th Anniversary	2019	“Yiddy Day” Celebration
Hall of Fame	2018	Unanimous Selection

Contemporary Broadcasting

Dave “Yiddy” Armbruster has maintained his prominence in Cincinnati Reds broadcasting through adaptation to new technologies and meaningful partnerships with fellow broadcasters.

Shift to Digital Platforms

Armbruster’s broadcasting career has evolved significantly with the digital revolution. After decades as a fixture on WLW-AM, where he joined in 1975, Yiddy embraced podcasting with surprising enthusiasm.

His weekly podcast, “Extra Innings with Yiddy,” launched in 2022, showcasing his ability to connect with younger audiences while maintaining his trademark production style. The podcast typically attracts 15,000-20,000 downloads per episode.

Despite the shift to digital formats, Armbruster hasn’t abandoned traditional radio. He maintains his role as producer for Reds broadcasts, balancing both worlds with remarkable adaptability.

Platform	Role	Years Active
WLW-AM Radio	Producer	1975-Present
Reds Podcast Network	Host/Producer	2022-Present
Reds YouTube Channel	Content Contributor	2020-Present

Collaborations with Current Announcers

Armbruster continues to work closely with the current generation of Reds broadcasters. He has maintained his position as producer for radio broadcasts, working particularly well with play-by-play announcer Tommy Thrall since 2019.

His collaborations extend to former players turned analysts. Danny Graves, who appeared on both radio and TV broadcasts, has credited Armbruster as a mentor during his transition to broadcasting.

Jim Day and Chris Welsh have frequently praised Armbruster’s behind-the-scenes contributions. Welsh notably referred to him as “the glue that holds the broadcast together” during a 2023 telecast. Thrall describes their working relationship as seamless, telling the Cincinnati Enquirer in 2022: “Yiddy knows exactly what each broadcaster needs. He anticipates things before I even realize I need them.”

Personal Life

Dave “Yiddy” Armbruster’s life outside the broadcast booth includes family connections and diverse personal interests that have shaped his identity beyond his remarkable 37-season career with the Cincinnati Reds Radio Network.

Family and Relationships

Armbruster maintains a relatively private family life despite his public-facing role with the Reds. He has a daughter who occasionally makes appearances at Reds events, showing the family’s connection to the baseball tradition he helped build. While Armbruster hasn’t frequently discussed his family in media interviews, those who know him describe his dedication as a father.

His professional relationships, particularly with announcers Marty Brennaman and Joe Nuxhall, evolved into deep personal friendships over their decades together. Brennaman has often credited Armbruster for being a steadying presence behind the scenes during their long partnership in the broadcast booth.

Outside Interests

Beyond baseball, Armbruster demonstrates passion for radio as a medium. Having been with 700WLW since 1982, his career reflects a deep commitment to broadcasting excellence.

Armbruster played a significant role in creating memorable fan experiences, including the famous “Banana Phone” segment on Reds broadcasts. This popular call-in feature became a legendary part of Reds radio history under his production guidance.

Located in Cincinnati throughout his career, Armbruster has become deeply connected to the local community. His longevity with the team has made him a respected figure among Cincinnati sports media professionals and baseball fans alike.

Fan Engagement and Legacy

Dave “Yiddy” Armbruster has created a lasting impact on Reds fans through his radio presence and production work. His influence extends beyond current broadcasts to shape the next generation of sports commentators.

Reds Country and Listenership

Yiddy’s role as producer-director for the Cincinnati Reds radio broadcasts has helped build a loyal following throughout Reds Country. His work with renowned broadcasters like Marty Brennaman and Tommy Thrall created what many called “an absolute blast” for listeners.

The popular “Hot Stove League” program, which Armbruster has been instrumental in producing, consistently draws strong listenership numbers across Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana.

Armbruster’s regular appearances on 700WLW’s weekend programming have further cemented his connection with fans. His Saturday segments covering Reds developments provide listeners with insights they can’t get elsewhere.

Influence on Future Broadcasters

Many emerging sports broadcasters cite Armbruster as a mentor figure. His production techniques and ability to craft engaging baseball narratives have become templates for aspiring radio professionals.

Young producers frequently reach out to Armbruster for guidance, with several current MLB team producers having trained under his supervision. The “Yiddy Method” of baseball storytelling emphasizes authentic fan connection over statistics alone.

His colleagues regularly reference him as their “Mentor and Spiritual Leader” in the broadcasting booth. This influence ensures his approach to baseball coverage will continue long after his career concludes.

The Cincinnati Sports Broadcasters Association recognized Armbruster’s mentorship with their Distinguished Service Award in 2021.

Behind the Scenes

Dave “Yiddy” Armbruster has spent decades creating the soundtrack of Cincinnati baseball, skillfully managing the technical aspects while developing close relationships with broadcasters and players alike.

Preparation for Game Day

For Armbruster, game days begin hours before the first pitch. As the longtime producer for Reds broadcasts, his pre-game routine involves checking equipment, preparing audio clips, and coordinating with broadcasters to ensure seamless coverage.

During Spring Training in Arizona, Yiddy’s workload intensifies. He arrives at the facility around 7 AM to set up equipment, test microphones, and prepare interview segments. His meticulous attention to detail means fans at home never miss a moment of the action.

Armbruster’s preparation extends beyond technical aspects. He studies team statistics, reviews game notes, and stays updated on player news to provide broadcasters with relevant information during live broadcasts.

His dedication often includes personal sacrifices, like the time he consumed what broadcaster Steve Stewart described as the equivalent of 13 hot dogs during a particularly challenging workday – a testament to his commitment to keeping the broadcast running smoothly.

The Role of a Producer/Engineer

As a Producer/Engineer, Armbruster balances technical expertise with creative direction. For over 30 years, he’s been the unseen force behind the iconic Reds radio broadcasts, including the legendary “Marty and Joe” era.

His responsibilities include:

• Managing audio levels during broadcasts

• Cueing appropriate commercial breaks

• Incorporating sound effects and highlight clips

• Troubleshooting technical issues in real-time

• Coordinating remote broadcasts from various stadiums

The relationship between Armbruster and the on-air talent exemplifies professional symbiosis. Former broadcasters consistently praise his ability to anticipate their needs and enhance their performances through subtle technical adjustments.

Jim Day’s podcast featured Armbruster sharing behind-the-scenes stories from his decades with the team. He revealed how his technical expertise helped create memorable broadcast moments for generations of Reds fans.