MLB Network’s Intentional Talk is staying on the air. According to reporting by The Athletic, MLB executives reversed last month’s cancellation after a wave of fan and player support.
What We Know: Last month, MLB Network decided to cancel Intentional Talk after 16 seasons with the program’s final episode airing this afternoon. However, according to The Athletic, league executives have now reversed that plan. Instead, hosts Kevin Millar, Ryan Dempster and Siera Santos will discuss the decision on MLB Network at 3 p.m. today. A source with knowledge of the situation tells Barrett Media that host Kevin Millar and others discussed the matter with several high ranking MLB officials at the World Series. Intentional Talk aired their program live from the World Series between the Milwaukee Brewers and Tampa Bay Rays. MLB Network has not provided comment on the decision to Barrett Media.
What’s At Stake: The reversal is a win for fans of the longtime MLB Network program. With the likelihood that the program will continue as is into next season following a potential labor issue with MLB, that news will be welcome to fans and players alike who spoke out following news of its cancelation.
What Remains Unclear: It’s unclear how long the reverse course of the decision will last. MLB Network and MLB officials have not provided comment on the decision.
What It Means: For now, the fan campaign worked. Ultimately, though, the show still needs a season to talk about. Owners and players are headed toward a potential lockout at the end of the month. As a result, Intentional Talk could return to a sport mired in labor uncertainty. However, just the fact it’s returning is a huge win for baseball fans and fans of the program across the country.
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