VSiN is trimming its roster ahead of another major change for the sports betting network. Barrett Media is reporting several staff members are out just before an upcoming ownership change.
What We Know: VSiN began cutting several talent and staff this week across on-air, editorial and programming roles. Among them: Tyler Shoemaker (multi-sport analyst, since 2023), Josh Appelbaum (betting analyst, since 2019), Greg Peterson (hoops/MLB contributor, since 2017), Joe Ceraulo (host, Cashing Out), James Coleman (creative services, since 2022), Matt Deutsch (programming, since 2024).
Barrett Media has learned that EVP of Talent and Programming Steve Cohen will also depart the company. Cohen alerted several staff members with an email Monday evening. Cohen has been with VSiN since 2024, and declined to comment on the matter. Meanwhile, as cuts continue, Barrett Media has also learned VSiN’s ownership will change within the next week. VSiN COO Bill Adee and President Brian Musberger have not returned calls for comment.
What They Said: Tyler Shoemaker (via X): “I am officially a free agent. Huge thank you to VSiN for having me contribute for the last 3 years. It’s been a great experience. I’ve made some amazing friends out of it. But I have been officially let go.”
Josh Appelbaum (via X): “Some personal news. I was let go by VSiN. It’s been an incredible journey over the past 7 years. Starting with a “tryout” writing the daily newsletter in 2019, to being featured on The Lombardi Line and Betting Across America. Hosting the Market Insights and Morning Bets Podcasts, joining DraftKings and, of course, writing thousands of daily sharp reports in between. Along the way, I gained invaluable experience, not only as a bettor but as a person. I learned how the industry works inside and out, discovered the magic of Las Vegas firsthand, survived COVID and, best of all, made countless friendships that I will take with me forever. A special thank you to one of the true “good guys” who always had my back, Bill Adee. I love betting. I love the sweat. And I’m excited for what’s next.”
Greg Peterson (via X): “This isn’t the tweet I wanted to send but I guess life is always full of change. I was informed over the weekend that effective at the end of the MLB regular season (two weeks from now) my contract with VSIN will not be renewed. I moved to Vegas in June of 2017 for the a role as an associate producer and had nearly 10 great years with the company.”
James Coleman (via LinkedIn): “Yesterday was my last day at VSiN after four years as Director of Creative Services. I’m proud of what we built there. I got to grow a creative team, make a ton of cool shit, and work with some really talented people along the way. So now I’m looking for what’s next.”
Matt Deutsch (via X): “For the 1st time in my career I’m excited to be a FREE AGENT! My time at VSiN is over and I seek opportunities in sports media, specializing in betting, fantasy & prediction markets (plus NYC Sports is in my Blood).”
What Remains Unclear: The incoming owner’s identity remains unknown. Sources close to the situation expect Circa Owner Derek Stevens to have influence over the brand’s future direction. According to one source, the decision to engage with Prediction Markets went over poorly. Whether additional cuts follow the ownership change is uncertain, too. For now, Peterson’s exit isn’t final until the MLB regular season ends in two weeks.
What It Means: Losing on-air talent and key executives signals more than routine cost-cutting. Therefore, the timing suggests incoming owners want a clean slate before taking over. What the future holds for Cohen, Musburger, Adee and others across the network is unclear.
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