Eagles: Dan Baker will no longer announce games

The Philadelphia Eagles announced on Wednesday that long-time announcer Dan Baker will no longer be heard at their games.

In a statement, the Eagles said the team "decided to make a change in the role and told Baker about the new direction last week."

Baker had been the public address announcer for the Eagles for 29 seasons.

"Dan is the ultimate professional and even though he was disappointed with the direction we are heading, he was accepting of our decision to make the change," team president Don Smolenski is quoted as saying in the statement.

The Eagles went on to say they will "begin a search for a new public address announcer and will work closely with an outside agency to aid in this transition."

Baker is quoted in the statement as saying "I want to thank Mr. Lurie, the Philadelphia Eagles, and the fans for the privilege of announcing 29 great years of Eagles football," said Baker. "It has truly been an honor."

The Eagles said Baker will be recognized at the season opening game on September 7 against the Jaguars.

Baker is also the announcer for the Philadelphia Phillies, a position he has held since 1972. There was no indication that Baker's role with the Phillies would change.