Scott Masteller is retiring. The 97.5 The Fanatic program director will step away December 31 after more than 45 years in radio.
What We Know: Beasley Media Group announced that Masteller will retire December 31. He joined 97.5 The Fanatic three years ago and helped realign its programming and on-air lineup. Before The Fanatic, he spent seven years as WBAL NewsRadio’s program director in Baltimore. He also spent 13 years at ESPN, working in Dallas-Fort Worth and Bristol, Connecticut. In November of last year, Masteller told Barrett Media that he decided to program at 97.5 The Fanatic from his prior retirement due to his relationship with former market manager Joe Bell. Bell stepped down from Beasley Media in July of 2024.
What They Said: Paul Blake, vice president and market manager of Beasley Media Group Philadelphia: “Scott has brought tremendous knowledge, thoughtful leadership and a deep commitment to excellence to The Fanatic. He understands what makes sports radio meaningful to its audience and has always been generous in sharing his insight with those around him. Scott was key in The Fanatic’s growth, and he helped position the station well for its next chapter. We are deeply grateful for Scott’s contributions and congratulate him on an outstanding career and a well-earned retirement.”
Justin Chase, chief content officer at Beasley Media Group: “Scott has helped make The Fanatic stronger during an important period in the station’s progress. We are grateful for his contributions and pleased that he will work with us to identify the right person to lead the station’s programming into the future.”
What Remains Unclear: Beasley has not named a successor as program director. Chase gave no timeline for that search. It’s unclear whether an internal candidate will be considered first. Meanwhile, the process will likely unfold over the coming months.
What It Means: Masteller’s exit closes a chapter for one of Philadelphia’s sports stations and a legacy of impactful leadership in sports radio. Consequently, The Fanatic must navigate a leadership transition. Still, his continued involvement in the search could ease that shift. Ultimately, the move underscores how much stability veteran programmers provide.
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