Steve Mears is the choice to replace Jeff Rimer in the Blue Jackets' television booth.

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Mears, who worked as a host for NHL Network and has done play-by-play for the Pittsburgh Penguins and New York Islanders will join analyst Jody Shelley on the Bally's Sports broadcasts. Rimer retired last season after 20 years of handling the role.

“Steve Mears brings a wealth of experience having broadcast games to regional, national and international audiences for nearly two decades and we are excited to have him join Jody Shelley to deliver Blue Jackets hockey to our fans,” Blue Jackets vice president of business intelligence and broadcasting Marc Gregory said in a statement. “Much like his predecessor, Jeff Rimer, Steve has a deep level of knowledge and enthusiastic dedication to our game, which is evident every time he broadcasts a game.”

Mears, a graduate of Bowling Green State University, has broadcast a wide variety of hockey events during his 18-year career, including the Stanley Cup Final, NHL All-Star Games, NHL outdoor games and world junior championships. He was a play-by-play voice for Stanley Cup playoff games on TNT this season.

“It’s truly an honor for me, and I’m extremely grateful to have the opportunity to call games for 'The 5^th Line' as the television play-by-play announcer for the Columbus Blue Jackets,” Mears said. "I’ve seen firsthand for many years, as far back as when I attended games as a student at Bowling Green, how loyal and passionate Blue Jackets fans are and how special game nights at Nationwide Arena can be. With a great core of young, talented players, I can’t wait for the season to start and to work with Jody Shelley and our production team at Bally Sports Ohio.”

bhedger@dispatch.com

@BrianHedger

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This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Steve Mears named Columbus Blue Jackets' new TV voice