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Matt Vasgersian Fires Strikes In Search of ‘Santa Maria’ on MLB Network

Derek Futterman
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Matt Vasgersian Fires Strikes In Search of ‘Santa Maria’ on MLB Network

Over the years in which Matt Vasgersian has been situated in press boxes calling Major League Baseball games, fans have become accustomed to his cadence and delivery across a variety of platforms. As someone with both a regional and national presence, he is a component to this proverbial soundtrack of summer and brings a warm tone to every assignment. With his enduring presence at MLB Network in a multifaceted role working at the ballpark and in the studio, Vasgersian discerns that being able to exercise his versatility assists in other areas of his media portfolio and has engendered overall growth.

Although Vasgersian arrives to every broadcast poised and prepared to effectuate a strong performance, he cannot portend the climax or seminal alterations in the momentum. When the watershed moments occur, such as a go-ahead home run, diving catch or bases-loaded strikeout, he has demonstrated the ability to punctuate the action and accurately encapsulate the environment without taking center stage.

“There are little things that people have shared with me that exist online of me yelling, ‘Santa Maria!’ into the microphone, and it makes it sound like I do it five times a game,” Vasgersian said. “I try to keep that reserved for the big stuff. The ‘Santa Maria’ exclamation is really like saying, ‘Holy sh*t’ without saying ‘Holy sh*t’ on TV. It’s that knock-your-socks-off bit of athleticism, that unbelievable outcome, that thing that gets the crowd whipped into a frenzy.”

Vasgersian has used the phrase throughout his broadcasting career calling matchups ranging from regular-season contests to the seventh game of the World Series. As one of the voices on MLB Network Showcase broadcasts, he travels the country throughout the year to document compelling matchups to national audiences. At the same time, he follows the Los Angeles Angels throughout the season and calls select regional games, all of which enhances his abilities to better understand and convey baseball nuances as a studio host.

“I am always cognizant of, ‘The game comes first, the players come first,’” Vasgersian said. “I think that I try to appeal, or at least I try to demonstrate a knowledge of the game and a knowledge of the culture of the game without becoming the story, and I am convinced that that’s the right way to do it. Everybody has their own philosophy. No one’s turning on MLB Network to see Matt Vasgersian. They’re turning on the network to see baseball, and I’m facilitating that.”

Storytelling is Baseball at Its Core

MLB Network recently celebrated its 15th anniversary on the air, and Vasgersian has consistently been spread across different shows in its programming lineup. As one of the hosts of the Emmy award-winning MLB Tonight, he brings baseball fans the latest news and developments around the game while positioning his analysts to decipher what is taking place. Vasgersian remembers that when the league-owned broadcast entity launched in 2009, people felt an obligation to effectively impart history while promoting modern aspects of baseball. Although the network has not completely forsaken previous epochs, he indicated a shift towards further embracing the ongoing contemporary derivation.

“It’s a tough thing to do because we’re talking about a game with 130 years of history here, and you can’t ignore it,” Vasgersian said. “It’s too important, and unlike the other three major North American sports – four, count soccer in there as well – our game is deeper. There’s more here than there is in the NBA and in the NFL. Even though I’m big fans of all those sports, I just think we have a little bit more, we have more storytelling to do.”

While he is not an analyst by trade, being around the game has allowed Vasgersian to think critically about different issues and scenarios surrounding the sport. As someone with no professional playing experience, he is not trying to present himself as an expert but also knows his place on the shows. Vasgersian and his colleagues are consuming baseball content throughout the day, tracking the news cycle and exploring their sports curiosities under the aegis of a robust research staff.

“We have access to every single bit of minutiae you could ever think of just through these folks in our research team,” Vasgersian said. “They are just spectacular, and the best part of my day is going in before a show, hanging around in the research area in the cube farm and bulls******g with those dudes and coming up with not only topics, but drilling down on things that you might have seen.”

Starting this season, MLB Network is airing a national pregame show edition of MLB Tonight featuring Greg Amsinger hosting with Harold Reynolds and Dan Plesac delivering analysis. Vasgersian is usually on the air for later editions of the program and works alongside analysts such as Chris Young, Jake Peavy and Yonder Alonso. During the offseason though, he takes the airwaves early for Hot Stove and works with Reynolds and Lauren Shehadi to delineate the latest offseason news, interview personnel and preview the upcoming season.

“We are doing the show in large part for each other, and I think that’s the secret sauce for a lot of successful ensemble shows,” Vasgersian said. “When you like each other and you’re doing it for and with each other for the pure joy of a reaction from your friend or colleague, it comes off on TV.”

The Back of Your Baseball Card is All About Routine

With the start of the regular season comes a change in Vasgersian’s quotidian routine, specifically as it pertains to his break from working. Rather than rising early, he is oftentimes sleeping late trying to preserve his energy and prevent himself from becoming fatigued when games are being played. When he is on the road calling games, he remains disciplined and aims to keep his routine as stable as possible despite usually facing time changes. Yet there were instances where Vasgersian tried to balance an assortment of ventures and maximize his capabilities, arrangements that became unwieldy for him to sustain over time.

“Looking back, maybe my eyes were bigger than my stomach, and it was pretty ambitious to think that I could still do Sunday Night Baseball, MLB Network and the Angels,” Vasgersian said. “It was – it was overly ambitious. I think I’m much better for the experience of having been at ESPN for four years because you learn a lot about the scrutiny of doing a standalone game every week, and that’s not to say that I hadn’t done that with FOX before.”

Vasgersian called Sunday Night Baseball games with Jessica Mendoza and Álex Rodríguez until the 2021 season when he stepped away from the broadcast entity and focused his efforts on other work. Nonetheless, he recognizes the platform of the prime time broadcast property and contends that the next year will test executives about where rights within the ESPN MLB media deal end up landing amid the mutual opt-out between both companies. Vasgersian does not have any inside knowledge about the situation, but he speculates that baseball will value reach in this endeavor and not look to conceal the product.

“They want it to have a prominent place, they want it to get its due,” Vasgersian said. “The standalone Sunday night game’s a big deal. All the stuff ESPN has is a big deal, and that’s why, I think, baseball requires it commanding a premium, not just in terms of rights fees, but just a premium in terms of the attention and the treatment that it gets.”

The Road to the Show on MLB Network

Before joining MLB Network in 2009, Vasgersian had not primarily broadcast MLB games at the national level and took a leap of faith in joining the company. Tony Petitti, the former president and chief executive officer of MLB Network, communicated a clear vision to Vasgersian and convinced him to exit his role as the television voice of the San Diego Padres. Leading up to that point though, he was content with this position and did not wish to depart the regional role but ultimately realized the gravity of the venture and its future potential.

Aside from committing his time to MLB Network as the enterprise sought to garner audience and accrue market share, Vasgersian had to make other sacrifices in his career. For example, he stepped back from regularly broadcasting NFL games for FOX Sports, although he continued calling baseball games periodically for the conglomerate. On top of that, he was no longer going to be living in San Diego, a community with which he was invested and was a homeowner.

“You make the main thing the main thing, and for me, the main thing was baseball, and it was almost like a perfect time in my life and a perfect thing for me to jump on an all-baseball channel,” Vasgersian said. “It was so exciting to be part of it, still is. It still is, but back then, none of us knew what we were doing, and it was a blast to go through the growing pains.”

In addition to his other responsibilities, Vasgersian has volunteered to participate in audio projects at the company. As he hosts the MLB Network Podcast for a second season, the network is airing the show on linear television Sunday mornings and also distributing the venture across podcasting platforms. Moreover, MLB Network recently started simulcasting the final hour of The Leadoff Spot from SiriusXM as it leans further into audio content. As baseball seeks to reach a generation immersing themselves in digital content, the network is also available on various streaming services and through a direct-to-consumer functionality.

“Consumption of the sport is up at record levels, and a lot of naysayers would point just to one thing and say, ‘Oh, this sport isn’t doing what it used to do,’” Vasgersian remarked. “Well, TV ratings are not as indicative of consumption as they once were because there are so many different ways that younger people are consuming baseball.”

You Can’t Hit the Ball Unless You Learn to Swing

Although the traditional avenues of reach have diminished commensurate with waning penetration of pay television, MLB Network continues to innovate and remain on the cutting edge of new technology. As it executes new channels through which to reach the audience, Vasgersian understands that while business arrangements may change, having a home base attenuates the risk of being minimized. Throughout his 15-year tenure with the company, he has been afforded chances to exhibit his skills and hopes to produce something to be determined in the future.

“You learn something doing play-by-play that you didn’t know yesterday, and you learn something studio hosting that you didn’t know yesterday about the game, the sport, and it’s huge,” Vasgersian said. “I’ve been given opportunities that I otherwise would not have been given because I like doing both, and the people I work for are very generous in allowing me to do so.”

There has been an influx of new personalities on the MLB Network airwaves expressing their thoughts and contributing to different content areas in recent years. Programming throughout the lineup has been revamped amid altered consumer proclivities with hosts, analysts and reporters bestowing their insights and expertise on the national pastime. MLB Network has been able to showcase tradition while staying at the forefront of innovation all convalescing to create a distinctive on-air product, and Vasgersian remains optimistic towards its direction as it prepares to relocate to new headquarters in 2028.

“We all have the same goal – we want the network to succeed, and I think having been there long enough, I think I’ve convinced enough people that that’s important to me to where I’m not going to suggest something that’s detrimental to the network, and having that strong leadership, people that listen and people that are also doing things that you’re unaware of,” Vasgersian said. “I don’t run the building – that’s for sure. They do, and they’re worried about things and engaged in things that I have no idea about that I’m confident that they’ll nail because we’ve done a pretty good job over it for 15 years.”

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

4 Tips on How to Handle Social Media As a Media Member and On-Air Talent in 2025

Peter Thiele
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4 Tips on How to Handle Social Media As a Media Member and On-Air Talent in 2025

Social Media can be an avalanche to bury your career. 670 The Score host Dan Bernstein was dismissed over a stupid moment on X. There have been numerous hosts who have been suspended and/or fired after poor social media judgment.

There is one thing for all of us to remember: We are always on the clock. Your social media postings and interactions are considered another part of your job. Dan Bernstein wasn’t the first or the last media personality to get fired over this.

Here are my tips on how to protect your career online.

Ignore the Trolls

Being totally honest, it is fun to be a troll. It is fun to get a reaction. There are many celebrities on social media who just can’t help themselves. If the person trolling you has less than 500 followers, move along.

I have a friend who was all hyped up because the bot or instigator online was traced to Russia. I asked him how many followers does that person have? He replied five. I told him that he was being played.

Never, ever, respond to someone with few followers.

I have a friend with an extremely famous daughter. She almost never reads her notifications. Ok, she mostly doesn’t read the comments. When she reads the responses, it totally freaks her out. She never responds to the hate or even the love.

Ask yourself: what is the benefit of arguing with a troll? The answer is nothing. In fact, most of these media people have been triggered by a troll. Ignore them. If you feel the need to respond, say something like: “Thank you for the comments.”  Leave it there. Legit people who disagree with you will feel like they are being heard. You are doing your job. Creating a great moment for a listener.

Also, are the responses from your listening area? I know hosts who get all excited about a caller or an online response from another state. No one from outside your listening area can benefit you. They are not purchasing products or services from your advertisers. These people cannot have a diary or a PPM Meter. We are not at that point where monetizing of the radio show or station stream is a main source of revenue.

Internet Isn’t Real Life

There are people who have online personas. These people change their identity because it would be embarrassing if their spouse, friends, family, and employer learned of their online life. X is the most likely place for hosts or media personalities to get tripped up.

Don’t Get Charged With Using Social Media While Under the Influence

Posting on social media while drunk or high is a terrible idea. If you start looking at your posts and their responses after having a couple, you are more likely to do something really stupid. Sober posting only, please.

There have been several hosts who have been reprimanded, suspended, or fired because they were late-night tweeting. Consider being rude or abusive online on the same level as screaming at a client or drunkenly stumbling out of a bar. You are always on the clock. Read your contract again. If it is ever determined that your behavior has been detrimental to your station and/or company, you can be dismissed with no notice.

While we are discussing drinking, it is ok to have a drink at the bar or out for dinner with friends. Never have a second. Here is why: People know who you are. If you have more than one drink, it may cause speculation that you were drunk driving. This is true even if you ride Uber, walk home, or have a sober driver. None of us are perfect. We can all have a moment of poor choices. Very few careers carry the weight of being a high-profile media personality. Our employers are less likely to be as patient as they were a decade ago.

Also, there is this thing called a smartphone. Your moment of excess celebration can easily be recorded and posted across social media.

Have a Clear Social Media Mission

This is important because it gives you guardrails. Most companies have social media policies. If your company has a social media policy, follow it closely. Also, your company may have a social media team. Ask your Program Director, news/talk or sports talk format captain if you can have a Zoom meeting with that social media team to get tips on how to maximize your social media footprint.

Social Media allows fans to connect with you. It is like a sugar rush. This amazing tool brings a lot of ability to share your thoughts, feelings, and opinions. It is immediate. It is a high for people like us. While that seems like a cool thing, and it is, your actions are exactly like you are on the air. Your responsibilities to your employer continue 24/7. The company will not show grace to you, especially if your show is not a profit center for the station. Your behavior online may be graded. Your company may have social media initiatives for you to complete. You need to protect yourself while following these guidelines.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

The Watch: Inside with Jen Psaki, MSNBC

Garrett Searight
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The Watch: Inside with Jen Psaki, MSNBC

It is abundantly clear that MSNBC executives view Jen Psaki as a rapidly rising star in the cable news world. The Inside with Jen Psaki host is set to hit the primetime lineup as part of a shuffle.

Since joining the network just over two years ago, her profile has only grown on the liberal news network. Just look at MSNBC.com. On the outlet’s masthead, there are three shows featured: Rachel Maddow, Morning Joe, and Inside with Jen Psaki. That’s it. Not its weeknight primetime hosts, outside of Maddow who will return to hosting only on Mondays when Donald Trump finishes his first 100 days in office. That shows you how MSNBC feels about the former White House Press Secretary.

Is the network justified in viewing Psaki as a budding star? I watched Sunday’s episode of her program to get a feel for that answer.

Psaki began her Sunday show by talking about the Signal snafu by the Trump administration’s national security team. It feels like the natural place to begin, as it was the largest story — by a mile — of the week.

But it allowed Psaki to showcase her expertise: handling a government crisis. In fact, in her criticism of National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, she began by saying “Some free comms advice here for the National Security Advisor.”

That critique can really only come from one type of person: someone who has a background in public relations, crisis management, or whatever word/phrase you’d like to use. Someone like Jen Psaki.

Psaki’s comments came after playing comments from Waltz’s appearance on Fox News earlier in the week. This is something I harped on while watching Greg Kelly Reports on Newsmax last month, but I feel as if there’s an overreliance on outside media in the cable news space these days. I can’t tell you how often I see a host simply using a reaction from a show on a different network as content.

But in this instance, I think it’s absolutely valid and pertinent to play the clip of Waltz’s comments. Because Psaki’s monologue was, essentially, a blistering takedown of the response by the national security team after The Atlantic’s report showcased the incompetence — my word, not Psaki’s — in handling the communications and subsequent fallout.

In her criticism of Waltz and the other members of the national security team, Psaki’s critique didn’t feel as if it was as much a partisan attack as much as it was a criticism of the actions of those involved. It wasn’t so much “Republicans bad!” as much as it was “These folks messed this up from the get go, and then bungled their attempt to spin it into not a big deal.”

One of the things I enjoyed about Psaki’s monologue was that she “showed her work,” to borrow a phrase from my junior high math teacher. She didn’t just say “Waltz is an idiot and needs to resign.” That’s low-hanging fruit, pandering to the lowest common denominator cable news.

She laid out her argument well, taking a step-by-step approach. A “one bite at the apple at a time” view, if you will. Even if the viewer disagrees with her premise, you’re still able to at least follow why she feels the way she does, and how she reached the conclusion that it was a bungled cover-up of epic proportions.

There were several interviews throughout the show. The first coming with Rep. Pat Ryan (D-NY). To open the conversation, Psaki said some had posited that “Signalgate” (adding “gate” to anything to insinuate it’s a scandal is a pet peeve of mine, for the record) would have gone away had the national security team simply admit to the mistake. But she disagreed with that position and asked Ryan for his stance.

In a follow-up question, I thought Psaki showed her interviewing chops. Ryan criticized Congressional Republicans who had said they wouldn’t hold hearings on the matter. He added that Democrats would hold “shadow hearings” if Republicans failed to discuss the situation in committees.

Truthfully, I didn’t know what “shadow hearings” were when Ryan brought that up. And the first thing out of Psaki’s mouth was “What do shadow hearings look like, for people who are thinking ‘What is that? That sounds good.’ What does that look like?”

It shows an innate ability to both helm a television program, listen to the answer given by a guest, but also have the wherewithal to think “There are portions of the audience that don’t understand what he just said. I need to find a way to contextualize that.” And she did so flawlessly.

Later in the show, Psaki sat down with Kara Swisher — who is maybe one of the world’s foremost experts on Elon Musk — to talk about Musk, DOGE, and his role within the Trump administration. A conservative could view the conversation as two women complaining about Elon Musk, arguing that each probably once viewed the billionaire in a favorable light before his switch to the Republican Party.

I can’t say there wouldn’t be some validity to that, including when Psaki asked, almost gleefully, if Swisher that Elon Musk would “wear out his welcome” inside the Trump administration. But, giving the Inside with Jen Psaki host the benefit of the doubt, the conversation seemed to me to be more of an effort to contextualize Musk’s role, and whether or not he’s being used as a quasi-human shield for Donald Trump.

It’s an interesting premise and a conversation I found interesting because it wasn’t simply “Elon Musk sucks and so does Donald Trump.” Psaki asked good questions to Swisher. Were some of them biased against Musk and Trump? Sure. But biased questions in a cable news interview are about as prevalent as Dollar General stores in low-income areas.

Each of the interviews in the show were very short. Both Swisher and Rep. Ryan were in-studio and were there for just a few minutes. Psaki executed the discussions efficiently: she got the questions she wanted in, got the answers quickly from her subjects, and did not dawdle. It was a fantastic use of the viewer’s time, and also allowed for a multi-purpose approach for the show, making them easier to share on social media apps like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok.

Can I see why MSNBC views Jen Psaki as a rising star? Definitely. In a cable news world full of liberal hosts shouting “Trump sucks!” with the rebuttal being “Nuh, uh! Biden sucks! Pelosi sucks! Democrats are ruining this country!”, Inside with Jen Psaki rises above that. It’s a slightly higher-brow opinion-based show, in my view. And I put a high value on shows like that in today’s media landscape. I think we need more shows with nuanced views and interesting conversations, instead of talking heads blathering about the same topics over and over again.

It is clear MSNBC is diving head-first into highlighting prominent liberal voices who are looked at favorably by the left. Few can top Jen Psaki in that regard, which is why you should expect to see more of her in the near future, I’d surmise.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

Inside the World Series: How Media and Betting Enhance the Fan Experience

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Inside the World Series: How Media and Betting Enhance the Fan Experience

As the World Series continues to evolve into a truly global spectacle, media and betting innovations have transformed the fan experience from passive observation to immersive interaction. With social platforms delivering real-time updates and sportsbooks offering instant odds, fans today engage with baseball in ways that were unimaginable just a decade ago.

Operators, broadcasters, and betting platforms are not merely riding the wave of change—they’re orchestrating it, crafting a multi-sensory event that brings audiences closer to the action than ever before.

Key Takeaways

  • Real-time engagement on social platforms connects global audiences with players and game moments instantly.
  • Betting markets provide dynamic ways for fans to invest emotionally and financially in outcomes.
  • International broadcasts extend the World Series’ reach to 203 countries, widening the fan base.
  • Star athletes drive engagement, merchandise sales, and cultural connection across continents.
  • Sponsorships and advertising are now part of the entertainment, contributing to the spectacle.

Multi-Channel Marketing Strategy

Rather than relying on a single broadcast or platform, media operators now deploy multi-channel strategies to maximize reach and engagement. These include digital platforms, traditional TV broadcasts, mobile apps, and social media. By analyzing real-time data and audience behavior, broadcasters are able to tailor content to different demographics and regions. This strategy creates a more unified brand experience and strengthens the emotional bond between fans and the game.

Online casino and sportsbook operators use Big Data to finely segment their audiences and optimize outreach strategies. Features like FanDuel’s MLB matchup previews demonstrate how tailored, data-driven content can draw in sports fans by offering relevant insights and betting opportunities. By integrating personalized campaigns across platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and dedicated betting apps, these brands deepen engagement and convert casual fans into active participants.

Engaging Fans With Social Media

Platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram revolutionize how online casinos engage with fans. They offer real-time updates, behind-the-scenes content, and player interactions, allowing fans to connect beyond traditional media. Geographical barriers are eliminated, enabling supporters worldwide to engage actively. Social media platforms also facilitate the creation of diverse communities by bringing together fans from varied backgrounds.

Operators have quickly learned that fostering vibrant fan communities on Reddit and Twitter (X), where discussions, debates, and shared passions thrive is simply good business. Increasingly sportsbooks are live-tweeting instant analysis to foster a communal experience during games. These strategies are aimed at enabling fans to interact with players and each other, creating a dynamic, interactive environment that celebrates the shared excitement of the World Series.

Star Power on a Global Stage

MLB’s international stars have become global ambassadors of the sport. Players like Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge attract massive followings not only for their athletic prowess but also for their media presence. Clips of their performances are among the most shared content during the Series, often generating millions of views and interactions.

Their popularity drives international merchandise sales and boosts interest in betting markets—particularly in countries like Japan, Venezuela, and the Dominican Republic. As a result, MLB championship odds see increased attention from global audiences, especially when star players are involved in the postseason. Operators and sponsors alike capitalize on this by aligning promotional efforts with player-driven narratives, creating compelling marketing moments that transcend borders.

A Truly Global Event

The World Series now commands attention well beyond North America. Live coverage is available in over 200 countries, and time slots are strategically optimized to cater to peak viewing hours in key regions like Asia and Latin America.

In Japan, for example, early morning broadcasts align with national interest in players like Ohtani. This approach contributed to a 210% increase in international viewership on MLB’s YouTube channel. Younger fans in particular are fueling growth, with U.S. viewership among Gen Z increasing by over 100% in recent years. These shifts are reflected in the sharp rise in engagement with championship betting markets—underscoring the role of sportsbooks in enhancing real-time involvement.

Merchandising Momentum

Merchandise sales during the World Series now rival those of global fashion drops. Collaborations—such as the Takashi Murakami-designed Tokyo Series collection—sell out in hours, with Fanatics reporting over $40 million in sales for special edition lines.

Stadium pop-ups and flagship stores experience record-breaking demand, while limited-edition products tied to key moments—like walk-off homers or pitching milestones—become instant collectibles. Operators use media partnerships to create hype around these drops, blending e-commerce with fandom in new and profitable ways.

Advertising and Sponsorships: More Than Just Branding

Advertising and sponsorships surrounding the World Series have reached historic highs. In 2024 alone, the event generated over $800 million in sponsorship revenue. Brands like Nike, Capital One, and Google have turned their campaigns into cultural moments, seamlessly integrated into broadcasts and digital platforms.

Fox sold out its advertising slots early, with 30-second placements priced at nearly half a million dollars. Quirky and nostalgic campaigns—from Taco Bell’s ‘Steal a Base, Steal a Taco’ to Geico’s animated spots—are now eagerly anticipated elements of the experience. Betting operators also sponsor live odds segments, embedding their brands into the rhythm of the game.

The Convergence of Passion, Media, and Wagering

The World Series today is a multi-layered entertainment ecosystem. Fans aren’t just watching—they’re contributing content, placing bets, and participating in real-time conversations that shape the narrative of the series. The game has become a social and emotional investment, driven by a seamless interplay of media exposure and betting interaction.

For operators, this convergence offers unprecedented opportunities to innovate, engage, and monetize. For fans, it transforms each pitch into something more than a moment—it becomes part of a shared, global experience.

The World Series is no longer just about baseball. It’s about how media and betting are rewriting the rules of fandom, placing audiences at the heart of the action like never before.

Nick Nickson to Be Honored by Los Angeles Kings in Pregame Ceremony Ahead of Retirement

BSM Staff
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Nick Nickson to Be Honored by Los Angeles Kings in Pregame Ceremony Ahead of Retirement

The Los Angeles Kings organization will be honoring play-by-play announcer Nick Nickson in a pregame ceremony on Tuesday night ahead of a matchup against the Winnipeg Jets from Crypto.com Arena. Nickson has called Kings games for the last 44 years across radio and television, stepping behind the microphone for over 4,300 professional hockey games during his broadcasting career. This past October, he announced his retirement from the broadcast booth at the conclusion of the season as the Kings look to compete for a Stanley Cup championship.

“There comes a moment when you get a sense that it is the right time to move on, and I feel that after this season it will be that time,” Nickson said in a statement announcing his retirement.

“Shortly after graduating from college in 1975, I began my hockey broadcasting career, and it has been an absolute privilege to bring the game to the listeners and viewers from one season to the next. Through it all, I have enjoyed calling every shot, every save, every goal, and two Stanley Cups. To my family and the Kings organization, thank you for your unwavering support and loyalty. To the great fans of Kings Hockey, thank you for your encouragement and kind words over the years. It has always meant the world to me.”

Nickson has been working on Kings broadcasts from the booth named in his honor alongside lead analyst Jim Fox, ice-side analyst Daryl Evans and rinkside reporter Carrlyn Bathe throughout the season. On games where Nickson has not been behind the microphone, the team has utilized guest play-by-play talent to fill in on the role. Nickson started calling games on television in addition to radio with the 2023-24 season after the organization and play-by-play announcer Alex Faust parted ways as the team worked to combine radio and television broadcasts.

The ceremony will be hosted by Patrick O’Neal of FanDuel Sports Network West and will take place ahead of puck drop for the Western Conference matchup. Fans in attendance will also be receiving a commemorative poster that celebrates Nickson’s broadcasting career. Throughout his time behind the microphone, he has been honored with various accolades, including as the winner of the prestigious Foster Hewitt Award presented by the NHL Professional Broadcasters Association. Nickson was also inducted into the Southern California Sports Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2009 and added to the Frontier Field Walk of Fame located in his hometown of Rochester, N.Y. in 2011.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

Steve Kornacki Departs MSNBC, Will Remain with NBC News as Cable Channel Spun Off

BNM Staff
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Steve Kornacki Departs MSNBC, Will Remain with NBC News as Cable Channel Spun Off

Longtime MSNBC election data guru Steve Kornacki is leaving the network as part of a new deal with NBC News.

The move for Kornacki some as NBC News’ parent company Comcast finalizes plans to spin off its cable television assets — including MSNBC and CNBC — into a separate company dubbed SpinCo. Once enacted, it will see the two entities largely cease the sharing of resources and talent in the process.

Steve Kornacki has been a pivotal player in election coverage for MSNBC in recent years. He has become famous for his work at the network’s “big board” full of election data and insights.

Kornacki will transition to NBC News as a contributor while also remaining a key figure on Meet the Press. Additionally, as part of his new contract, he’ll contribute to coverage on NBC Sports, including the network’s coverage of the NFL, upcoming NBA broadcasts, as well as data-driven aspects of sports like horse racing and tennis, among others.

The 45-year-old Kornacki joined MSNBC in 2012. He joined the network after previously working as a political contributor at rival CNN. He saw his profile rise in 2020 as a fixture in the network’s election coverage. Later, NBC News added him to its sports coverage in 2021. In 2020, People magazine listed him as one of the sexiest men alive after his newfound fame.

The move was first reported by The Los Angeles Times.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

Bilingual AC 105.7 Maxima Launches In Las Vegas

BMM Staff
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Bilingual AC 105.7 Maxima Launches In Las Vegas

Beasley Las Vegas flipped Urban AC Jammin’ 105.7 to Bilingual AC 105.7 Maxima “Para Nosotros,” which translates to “For Us.” The station will feature English and Spanish pop hits from the 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s.

Beasley Chief Content Officer Justin Chase said, “This is an exciting new format for Beasley that was custom designed for the unique bilingual audience in Las Vegas. With the positioning statement as ‘Para Nosotros,” we are proud to be a new part of the Hispanic community in Las Vegas!”

Ronnie Glover, VP/Cluster Manager of Beasley Las Vegas, said, “Las Vegas is one of the most culturally rich and dynamic markets in the country. 105.7 Maxima is designed to reflect the heartbeat of this community by delivering a music experience that resonates deeply with bilingual and bicultural audiences.”

Cluster OM Cat Thomas added, “This really speaks to the expanding audience in Las Vegas. Maxima 105.7 is a reflection of our growing culture and provides a unique entertainment option for our community.”

The presentation is in Spanish, with the music highlighting artists like Whitney Houston, Marco Antonio Solis, Madonna, Lionel Richie, Selena, Michael Jackson, Shakira, Alejandro Fernandez, and Celine Dion.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

YES Network Chairman Randy Levine Thankful For Comcast Deal

BSM Staff
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YES Network Chairman Randy Levine Thankful For Comcast Deal

Deep into the night last night, the Comcast Corporation finally reached a deal with the YES Network for continued distribution of the regional sports network. As a result, its customers will be able to continue viewing New York Yankees baseball, Brooklyn Nets basketball, and other live programming. Previously, the two sides were nearing the expiration of a deadline that had already been extended to avoid a blackout of YES Network amid the expiration of its carriage agreement.

Ultimately, the news of the agreement—just before the proverbial eleventh hour on Monday night—comes at a crucial time, as the Yankees are set to begin a three-game series against the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Nets are closing out the regular season with five home games.

Meanwhile, YES Network chairman and New York Yankees president Randy Levine issued a statement on Tuesday morning, thanking all those who contributed to reaching an agreement.

“On behalf of the YES Network and the New York Yankees, I want to express our deep appreciation to everyone who supported our efforts to keep the YES Network from going dark,” said Levine in a statement. “All of you worked tirelessly to urge us to stay at the table and reach a deal.”

Just two days prior, on Sunday afternoon, YES Network chief executive officer Jon Litner appeared in the Yankees’ television broadcast booth, where he delineated the situation and explained that Comcast had been demanding YES Network move to a more expensive digital package. Furthermore, Litner spoke about how Comcast has been giving its own networks preferred treatment, including SportsNet New York, in which it possesses a partial ownership stake.

According to Levine, the issue escalated to the highest level, with the White House and the chairman of the FCC becoming directly involved in the negotiations. Additionally, he extended his thanks to many representatives from New York, Connecticut, and New Jersey for their work in facilitating the agreement.

“I would like to thank President Donald J. Trump and his administration, especially Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr,” noted Levine. “And the numerous additional elected officials who supported the rights of New York Yankees fans in various ways.”

For months, the two sides had been locked in a standoff related to carriage fees, with Comcast wanting to move YES Network out of the basic cable tier to a higher-priced digital tier, while YES Network strongly resisted the move. Although full details of the resolution have yet to be released, Levine took time to acknowledge and thank Yankees fans for their patience throughout the ordeal.

“Most importantly, we want to thank Yankees fans everywhere who showed their unwavering support and passion for keeping YES on the air,” said Levine. “Your voices truly made a difference.”

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

MSNBC Adds Antonia Hylton, Elise Jordan to Cast of Primetime Edition of ‘The Weekend’

BNM Staff
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MSNBC Adds Antonia Hylton, Elise Jordan to Cast of Primetime Edition of ‘The Weekend’

MSNBC has announced the addition of Antonia Hylton and Elise Jordan to serve as co-hosts of the primetime edition of The Weekend.

Hylton and Jordan will join already announced hosts of The Weekend: Primetime Catherine Rampell and Ayman Mohyeldin on the show when it debuts next month. The show will air from 6-9 PM ET in the revamped MSNBC weekend lineup.

Antonia Hylton is an NBC News and MSNBC correspondent. She previously worked as a correspondent and producer of Vice News Tonight for HBO.

Elise Jordan serves as a political analyst for NBC News and MSNBC. Before joining the network, she served in press and communications roles at the White House and State Department during the George W. Bush administration. She also spent time as an advisor to Sen. Rand Paul’s (R-KY) 2016 presidential campaign.

“At this critical moment in our media and politics, it’s an honor to join this show and be at the table, shaping the conversation and asking the important and hard questions,” Hylton said in a statement.

“This is an inflection point in our country’s history, and MSNBC viewers are looking for well-rounded news, critical context and fresh ideas,” Jordan added. “I couldn’t be more excited to join this well-respected group of journalists and co-hosts as we cover the issues impacting viewers’ daily lives.”

The expansion of The Weekend comes after the previous hosts of the morning edition — Symone Sanders Townsend, Michael Steele and Alicia Menendez — are being elevated to a spot in the weekday primetime lineup at the network after the appointment of Rebecca Kutler to serve as the new President.

MSNBC has announced the cast of the morning edition of The Weekend will include Eugene Daniels, Jonathan Capehart, and Jackie Alemany.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

iHeartMedia Names Jennifer Stocker Nebraska-Iowa Area President

BMM Staff
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iHeartMedia Names Jennifer Stocker Nebraska-Iowa Area President

iHeartMedia has promoted Jennifer Stocker to Area President for the company’s Nebraska-Iowa Region.

Stocker has been with the company for 25 years, most recently in the MidNorth area, where she was responsible for six markets, including Grand Forks, ND. In her new position, she will oversee the markets in Omaha, Des Moines, Sioux City, Davenport, Ogallala, and Cedar Rapids.

Shosh Abromovich, Division President for iHeartMedia, said, “I am excited to announce that Jen will be leading the Nebraska-Iowa Area! Jen’s strong work ethic, organizational skills, positive attitude, culture-first mentality, and competitive drive make her the perfect fit to elevate this Area to new heights. Her passion for our radio brands and profound understanding of the connection with our audience across all platforms will foster growth within our community, advertising partners, and team.”

Stocker added, “I am deeply honored and excited to take on the role of Area President for the Nebraska-Iowa region at iHeartMedia. This position offers the privilege of working with an exceptionally talented team while serving the dynamic and vibrant communities that make this region so unique. I look forward to advancing iHeartMedia’s legacy of innovation and connection, and I’m eager to collaborate with our partners to create outstanding experiences for both our listeners and clients.”

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

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