By Chad Finn, Boston.com Columnist

According to industry sources, Winter was called into program director Jason Wolfe's office following Monday's program and told that the chemistry between him and hosts John Dennis and Gerry Callahan wasn't working.

Winter's energetic style seemed an odd fit with the more cynical Dennis and Callahan from the beginning. But he was hired after a prolonged search to replace Meterparel, who held the job for more than a decade before leaving in mid-October when his contract expired to pursue a career in play-by-play.

Meterparel is not a candidate to return to the position.

Winter, a Norfolk native, has also worked at ESPN Radio since 2004, including "Mike and Mike in the Morning." He has also been the pregame and postgame host for ESPN's coverage of college football and basketball.

Here is what Wolfe said upon Winter's hiring:

"I'm thrilled to be adding Kevin's outstanding talent to WEEI. He's got tremendous passion, energy and wit, and will provide the perfect blend of personality and knowledge that will add a ton to D&C's show."

WEEI issued a statement Monday afternoon in which Winter was quoted as saying, "“I appreciated the opportunity to join WEEI, but my time commitments at ESPN Radio were just too consuming for me to continue in both roles."

Winter has never been and is not full-time at ESPN.

The full text of WEEI's statement is below:

WEEI today announced that effective immediately, Kevin Winter has stepped down from his position on the Dennis and Callahan Morning Show. Winter, who was working exclusively for ESPN Radio before being hired in early December, said “I appreciated the opportunity to join WEEI, but my time commitments at ESPN Radio were just too consuming for me to continue in both roles. I wish John and Gerry and the entire team the best going forward.”

Jason Wolfe, Vice-President of Programming and Operations for Entercom Boston, said, “I respect Kevin’s decision and wish him well in his future endeavors.”

There will be no further comment or follow up as it relates to a replacement at this time.