Are big changes on the horizon for Red Zebra Broadcasting in Washington D.C.? DCRTV reports that Redskins owner Daniel Snyder, who owns and operates Red Zebra Broadcasting, which serves as the parent company to ESPN 980, is in talks with Radio One to sell as many as four stations to the urban radio company.
As part of the proposed sale, Red Zebra would unload 92.7 WWXT, 950 WXGI, 570 WSPZ and 94.3 WWXX. According to the report, ESPN 980 WTEM-AM is not part of the package because the asking price from Snyder is said to be too high. However, if Snyder adjusts the price, talks could be rekindled.
Fueling further speculation of a major shakeup are some of the company’s moves over the past year. Tony Kornheiser left last year to start his own daily podcast. Since then, 980 has parted ways with market veterans Andy Pollin and Thom Loverro, and upcoming broadcasters Tim Murray and Nick Ashooh. Pollin, Loverro and Ashooh all landed roles with 106.7 The Fan, while Murray picked up an opportunity at WTOP.
Additionally, Red Zebra made a deal a few months ago with Cumulus’ WMAL to air Redskins games this season on 105.9 and 630. Redskins games had previously aired exclusively on Red Zebra’s own signals.
Jason Barrett is the President and Founder of Barrett Media since the company was created in September 2015. Prior to its arrival, JB served as a sports radio programmer, launching brands such as 95.7 The Game in San Francisco, and 101 ESPN in St. Louis. He also spent time programming SportsTalk 950 in Philadelphia, 590 The Fan KFNS in St. Louis, and ESPN 1340/1390 in Poughkeepsie, NY. Jason also worked on-air and behind the scenes in local radio at 101.5 WPDH, WTBQ 1110AM, and WPYX 106.5. He also spent two years on the national stage, producing radio shows for ESPN Radio in Bristol, CT. Among them included the Dan Patrick Show, and GameNight.
You can find JB on Twitter @SportsRadioPD. He’s also reachable by email at Jason@BarrettMedia.com.
