MLB Network is expanding its Draft Combine roster with a familiar front-office face. According to Sports Business Journal, former Washington Nationals GM Mike Rizzo will join the network as an analyst for its June 23-25 coverage.
What We Know: Rizzo served as GM and president of baseball operations in Washington until mid-July 2024, when the organization let him go. During his tenure, he selected star players such as Stephen Strasburg and Bryce Harper with consecutive first overall picks. He also guided the franchise to a 2019 World Series title. Rizzo joins fellow ex-GM Dan O’Dowd as part of MLB Network’s Draft Combine analyst team.
What Remains Unclear: Rizzo’s specific on-air role and whether his Draft Combine appearance leads to a longer-term MLB Network presence remain unknown. Additionally, it’s unclear how frequently he will contribute beyond the MLB Draft Combine.
What It Means: The Draft Combine takes place June 23 at Chase Field in Phoenix, now hosting the event for a fourth straight year. Typically NBA and NFL draft combine coverage speaks to the niche audiences of those sports. However, MLB Network is attempting to elevate the coverage of the sport’s combine this year. Adding Rizzo gives MLB Network genuine front-office credibility during one of the sport’s most talent-focused weeks.
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John Mamola is Barrett Media’s sports editor and daily sports columnist. He brings over two decades of experience (Chicago, Tampa/St Petersburg) in the broadcast industry with expertise in brand management, sales, promotions, producing, imaging, hosting, talent coaching, talent development, web development, social media strategy and design, video production, creative writing, partnership building, communication/networking with a long track record of growth and success. He is a five-time recognized top 20 program director in a major market via Barrett Medi’s Top 20 series and has been honored internally multiple times as station/brand of the year (Tampa, FL) and employee of the month (Tampa, FL) by iHeartMedia. Connect with John by email at John@BarrettMedia.com.
