Dave O’Brien is sticking around Fenway a while longer. The longtime Red Sox voice has reportedly signed a two-year extension through at least 2028.
What We Know: This marks O’Brien’s 10th season with NESN, following nine years in the Red Sox radio booth. His current deal was due to expire at the end of this season. According to MassLive, negotiations went smoothly, with only a minor snag over lockout-related contract language. The new agreement also includes a slight reduction in his workload next year.
What’s At Stake: With a potential work stoppage looming this winter, it was imperative that the Red Sox lock in their ancillary voices ahead of what could be a very rocky off season.
What Remains Unclear: It’s unclear exactly how much smaller O’Brien’s schedule will be next season. It’s also unclear who might absorb the games he no longer calls.
What It Means: The extension keeps a familiar voice in the booth through at least 2028. With so much uncertainty coming this winter, the Red Sox wanted to ensure a deal got done ahead of a potential lockout. O’Brien is a staple for one of the country’s most recognizable teams. It makes complete sense to keep the consistency with the broadcast booth moving for years to come.
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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.