"Bullying works"; "Good riddance" - MLB fans show relief as Bob Costas steps down from his polarizing play-by-play role

On Thursday, sports media legend Bob Costas announced that he would be retiring from his MLB play-by-play broadcasting duties.

After 44 years calling baseball games, one of the most iconic commentators in MLB history, the 72-year-old will no longer be in the booth calling games.

One of the most recognizable voices during MLB games over the past few decades, Bob Costas has even been enshrined in the National Baseball Hall of Fame for his accomplishments. The decision to retire was something that was made at the beginning of the year, according to Andrew Marchand of "The Athletic."

That being said, the veteran commentator recieved some backlash from fans during the American League Division Series for what some felt was biased commentating in favor of the New York Yankees.

Some felt that Costas, who is a New York native, showed some bias in favor of the Yankeees. This has led to some fan celebrating the news of his retirement on social media.

"Good riddance," one fan posted about Bob Costas.

"I’m afraid he ruined his own legacy in baseball. Truly one of the greatest," another fan added.

"I think this is a win for all baseball fans," one more shared online.

During the ALDS, he seemingly voiced his disappointment at Yankees slugger Giancarlo Stanton hitting into a double play against the Kansas City Royals.

This sparked a whirlwind of backlash, including calling for his job and that he shoud retire. Well, for those who wanted that outcome, Costas did indeed decide to hang 'em up.

"Bullying works," a fan posted.

"Good. He’s horrible at it," one more posted.

While some fans are celebrating the news of Costas' retirement from play-by-play broadcasting, there is no denying the impact he had on the game. Costas was not only enshired in the Hall of Fame, but also called three World Series matchups, as well as many different League Championship Series.

One of Bob Costas' most infamous calls came at the expense of Pedro Strop

Despite all of his success as a commentator during MLB games, one of Costas' calls that continues to live on via social media came at the expense of former Chicago Cubs relief pitcher Pedro Strop.

During an outing against the St. Louis Cardinals, the Cubs turned to Strop with a 2-1 lead in the bottom of the eighth. Strop struggled, giving up a home run, as well as being charged with a blown save. While the performance may have been disappointing, Costas' on-air comments may have stung a little more.

"Strop is on his way out, pointing toward the heavens, we can only wonder that he asking some departed relative for forgiveness for this atrocious performance."

While Bob Costas would apologize for the comments and Pedro Strop would accept the apology, the moment continues to live on social media.