John Flaherty is enjoying a second life that does not include much baseball. 

“Flash” had been a part of Yankees fans’ summers for decades, a catcher with the team from 2003-05 before trading in his mitt for a microphone and beginning a 20-year run as an analyst on YES Network. 

That run ended this year, Flaherty’s contract not renewed after the 2025 season. The network stuck with David Cone, Paul O’Neill and Joe Girardi as its three main analysts. 

“I wouldn’t say it was a surprise,” Flaherty said while wearing the pinstripes Saturday, when he was back in The Bronx for Old-Timers’ Day. “It was definitely something that I think I saw coming. 

“It’s been an adjustment.” 

An adjustment that took a little while to sink in. But once he accepted that he did not have a big league season to cover and could choose how he spent his time, “It was fantastic.” 

John Flaherty (L.) at Yankees Old-Timers’ Day on Aug. 8, 2026. JASON SZENES FOR THE NEW YORK POST

The 58-year-old Flaherty was drafted in 1988, debuted in 1992 and played in 14 major league seasons before transitioning immediately to TV work that completely occupied him during baseball season. 

“This is my first major league season in 38 years where I haven’t been part of a schedule, so it’s been great,” said Flaherty, who had just returned from a trip to Italy. 

No, he is not watching baseball every day, even if he will check in on scores every once in a while. Flaherty, who grew up in West Nyack, did not rule out a return to a studio or booth one day if an opportunity arises, but he called having a summer to himself “pretty nice.” 

“You don’t think about it while you’re in the grind,” said Flaherty, who added he is consistently honored to be a part of Old-Timers’ Day and pal around with legends and former teammates. 

“It was a great run at YES,” Flaherty said, “but I’m enjoying this next chapter.”