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Nashville Predators Partner With Scripps Sports for Local TV Agreement After Leaving Main Street Sports Group

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Nashville Predators Partner With Scripps Sports for Local TV Agreement After Leaving Main Street Sports Group

The Nashville Predators are set to shift their local television strategy. The team has agreed to a multiyear deal with Scripps Sports that will bring games back to over-the-air viewers beginning next season. Under the agreement, the team’s games will air on WNPX-TV, which will carry more than 70 preseason, regular-season and early-round playoff matchups each year that are not selected for national broadcasts.

According to a report by Sports Business Journal, the station will also undergo a rebrand. The new name will be “The Spot — Nashville 28,” aligning with similar efforts in other NHL markets.

The Predators become the latest franchise to partner with Scripps. They join the Tampa Bay Lightning, Florida Panthers and Vegas Golden Knights in moving away from the traditional regional sports network model.

Main Street Sports Group, which operates FanDuel-branded RSNs, is expected to cease operations following the opening round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Nashville had aired games on its regional network in various forms since entering the league in 1998. Scripps executives view Nashville as an ideal market for their free-to-air model.

The company owns multiple stations in the region. These include WTVF NewsChannel 5, which will support broadcasts through cross-promotion and expanded visibility. In addition to linear broadcasts, both sides plan to introduce a direct-to-consumer streaming option.

The strategy mirrors recent successes in other NHL markets. Teams that transitioned to over-the-air distribution have reported gains in audience size. Driven in part by increased household access and wider regional reach.

Predators CEO Sean Henry expects similar results. He noted the team could reach as much as 95% of households in the Nashville designated market area under the new structure. The organization also plans to expand availability across its broader territory, which includes several neighboring states.

Scripps is expected to work with additional broadcast partners to extend coverage beyond Tennessee.

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Fox News Adds Astronaut Butch Wilmore as Contributor

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Fox News Adds Astronaut Butch Wilmore as Contributor

Fox News has added astronaut Butch Wilmore as a contributor, where he’ll provide space-related analysis for the network.

The 63-year-old served as a NASA astronaut beginning in 2000. He worked three spaceflights during his tenure, totalling 464 days off of Earth and 32 hours outside the spacecraft.

Last year, Wilmore was a member of the crew stranded in space for months after originally embarking on what was meant to be an eight-day trip.

Wilmore made his first appearance as a Fox News contributor on Tuesday morning on America’s Newsroom. Anchor Bill Hemmer said, “Welcome to the team. Welcome to the family. It’s great to have you.”

The addition of Butch Wilmore as a Fox News contributor comes as the Artemis II mission is in the midst of its 10-day mission, crewed by four astronauts around the moon. It is the first crewed mission beyond low Earth Orbit since Apollo 17 in Dcember 1972. The spacecraft is expected to return to the Pacific Ocean just after 8 PM ET on Friday, April 11th.

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John Catsimatidis: We’re Expanding 77 WABC to News, Talk, and Music Brands Like the BBC

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John Catsimatidis: We’re Expanding 77 WABC to News, Talk, and Music Brands Like the BBC

77 WABC and Red Apple Media have seen expansions in recent months. Owner John Catsimatidis says another expansion could be on the way.

During an appearance on Sid and Friends in the Morning on the New York news/talk station, Catsimatidis said that the station is planning to move into the music realm.

“We’re going to go worldwide,” said Catsimatidis. “I talked to the powers that be in Washington. We’re going to challenge the BBC. We are going to be a news station, in addition to what we are at WABC. And we’re also going to be a music station. But it’s going to be on three different (stations). The BBC has BBC One, BBC Two, BBC Three, right? We’re going to have WABC one, WABC two, WABC three, and we’re going to do all of the above.”

After Rosenberg noted that the station’s FM simulcast on 107.1 on Long Island is the top Nielsen-rated station, Catsimatidis said the station’s mission remains the same no matter the format.

“If you want the truth, WABC is the place for the truth,” Catsimatidis concluded. “If you want a bunch of crap, then do whatever you want.”

John Catsimatidis said that the company is “busy synchronizing” the strategy to ensure that “nothing in between takes off” before the plans are officially put in place.

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Stephen A. Smith, Suzanne Scott, Wolf Blitzer Members of 34th Annual Broadcasting+Cable Hall of Fame

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Stephen A. Smith, Suzanne Scott, Wolf Blitzer Members of 34th Annual Broadcasting+Cable Hall of Fame

The Broadcasting+Cable Hall of Fame is slated to honor 14 honorees as part of its 34th annual class. Stephen A. Smith, Suzanne Scott, and Wolf Blitzer headline the class.

The Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York City will host the gala honoring the new class on Tuesday, September 29th.”

Stephen A. Smith is the featured commentator and Executive Producer of ESPN’s First Take. He also contributes to a wide plethora of content for the network across a variety of programs and sports. Additionally, he serves as a contributor to NewsNation.

Suzanne Scott has served as the CEO of Fox News and Fox Business Network since 2018. She has been with the organization for nearly 30 years.

Wolf Blitzer has long served as the anchor of The Situation Room on CNN. He originally joined the network in 1990. Most recently, Pamela Brown has joined him as co-anchor on his long-running program.

“The class of 2026 feels particularly noteworthy,” Charlie Weiss, chairman of the Broadcasting+Cable Hall of Fame, said. “The combination of dynamic industry leaders, pioneering innovators and unparalleled, groundbreaking creatives is nothing short of breathtaking. We stand in awe of their collective achievements, and we are thrilled to be able to celebrate and honor them.”

The complete list of honorees includes:

  • Wolf Blitzer – Co-anchor of CNN’s “The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer and Pamela Brown”
  • Val Boreland – Versant’s president of entertainment
  • Andy Cohen – Host and executive producer at Bravo, NBCUniversal and Embassy Row
  • Joseph M. Cohen – Co-founder of USA Network, president of The Switch Sports Group and Chairman & CEO of West Ridge Associates
  • Luis Fernández – Chairman of NBCUniversal Telemundo Enterprises (Chairman’s Award)
  • Rita Ferro – The Walt Disney Company, president of global advertising
  • Bobby Flay – chef, restaurateur, producer and media personality at Food Network
  • Robert & Michelle King – Creators/showrunners/executive Producers at CBS Studios & King Size Productions
  • Jon Litner – YES Network, president and CEO
  • Jim Packer – Lionsgate, president of worldwide television distribution
  • Suzanne Scott – CEO of Fox News Media
  • Stephen A. Smith – Featured commentator/executive producer of “First Take” at ESPN
  • William Wang – Founder and CEO of VIZIO (Technology Leadership Award)
  • “Star Trek” – Franchise of the Year Award

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Eagle 98.1 Brings The Woody Show to Morning Drive in Baton Rouge

BMM Staff
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Eagle 98.1 Brings The Woody Show to Morning Drive in Baton Rouge

Eagle 98.1 is rolling out changes to its on-air lineup while maintaining local programming and community ties in the Baton Rouge market.

Mornings now feature The Woody Show from 6 AM to 10 AM weekdays. Local traffic, news, and weather will continue during that window as well, including reports from the Louisiana Radio Network and weather updates from WBRZ.

Middays remain anchored by Scotty Mac’s Rock at Work from 10 AM to 2 PM. A 50-year radio veteran, Scotty Mac also serves as Production Director across Guaranty Media’s four stations.

Afternoons stay in the hands of Michelle Southern, who hosts Southern Rock weekdays from 2 PM to 7 PM Evenings bring a new addition — Mark Adams hosts Backstage Pass Monday through Friday from 7 PM to 10 PM. A 23-year Navy veteran, Adams has been a part of the Eagle 98.1 team behind the scenes before transitioning to his on-air role.

Sunday nights add another new element, as rock icon Alice Cooper brings Alice’s Attic to the station from 7 p.m. to midnight. On weekends, Chris Marler hosts Full Volume from 2 PM to 7 PM Saturday and Sunday, while Alondra Villarreal continues Coffee and Flannel — her all-90s show — Sunday mornings from 9 AM to 2 PM.

Southern, who serves as Guaranty Media‘s Radio Operations Manager and Program Director of Eagle 98.1, framed the changes around the station’s local identity.

“Every decision we make for Eagle 98.1 starts right here in Baton Rouge,” she said. “We are recognized across the industry because this station moves the needle for our clients, our artists, and our community. We deliver real results that help businesses grow, and we do it with one of the most engaged audiences anywhere.”

Southern added, “This station has real roots here. We know our listeners. We show up. And we’re going to keep building something Louisiana can be proud of.”

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Tim Brando Signs Extension With FOX Sports

BSM Staff
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Tim Brando Signs Extension With FOX Sports

Tim Brando isn’t slowing down anytime soon. According to an interview with Front Office Sports, the veteran broadcaster has agreed to a multi-year contract extension with FOX Sports.

The extension ensures Brando’s continued presence on college football and basketball coverage for the network. The move keeps one of the industry’s most recognizable voices in a familiar role as Fox continues to lean on experienced talent.

“It’s great news for me,” he said in an interview with FOS. “They didn’t have to move this quickly. My deal wasn’t up until August, but they reached out right away. I’m extremely grateful.”

That early commitment reflects the value FOX Sports places on Brando’s consistency and versatility. By the end of this new agreement, he will have spent roughly 15 years with the network. It’s a milestone that underscores both his staying power and his adaptability in a rapidly shifting media landscape.

Brando joined FOX Sports in 2014 after a long run at CBS Sports, bringing decades of experience across multiple sports. His resume stretches even further back, including a notable role as one of the original hosts of College GameDay in its early days.

Today, his primary focus remains on college athletics. He continues to call marquee college football and basketball games, while also stepping into NFL coverage when needed. That flexibility has long been a hallmark of Brando’s career. Early on, he worked across multiple sports and leagues, building a foundation that still serves him today.

“If somebody can’t make it, they bring the old left-hander out of the bullpen” he said.

More than four decades into broadcasting, Brando still speaks with enthusiasm about the work. He points to the relationships he’s built and the connection with audiences as key reasons he remains energized.

“I love the audience. I love the games,” he said. “And I love the relationships with the people involved.”

FOX Sports has not commented on the reports.

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Seton O’Connor Announces Upcoming Departure From Dan Patrick Show Radio Program

BSM Staff
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Seton O’Connor Announces Upcoming Departure From Dan Patrick Show Radio Program

A familiar voice on The Dan Patrick Show is preparing for a new chapter, as longtime producer Seton O’Connor announced that Friday will be his final day in his current on-air role.

O’Connor shared the news during Tuesday’s broadcast, explaining that he will remain with the company while shifting his focus to digital and experiential growth opportunities tied to the show.

“I’m going to leave the radio show to focus on a different side of the business that [I’m] hoping to grow and build out a little more,” O’Connor said. “I’ve kind of been thinking of it as I’m not walking out the door. I’m sort of building a new room on this house.”

The move signals a strategic evolution for both O’Connor and the program. Rather than stepping away entirely, he will work on expanding the show’s presence beyond its daily radio format. O’Connor said his new role will center on creating content outside the studio, including event-based coverage and audience engagement opportunities.

“I’m going to sort of grow out more experiential things, maybe hitting more events. Going to college football tailgates or other events,” he said. “Because of the radio show, we haven’t really had the ability to do that. I’m going to focus on those opportunities and hopefully add to our social presence and the TV show.”

The decision comes after decades in radio. O’Connor acknowledged the weight of the transition, noting how deeply the medium has shaped his career.

“I’ve been on the radio since 2000,” he said. “Twenty-four of the last 27 years I’ve been on the radio. This has been my whole career. It’s not a decision that I make lightly.”

Host Dan Patrick addressed the change on-air, expressing support for O’Connor’s next step while recognizing the value he has brought to the show.

“This can be what you want to do for the next two years with the show, and then after that,” Patrick said. “I knew he could be good at it. I just didn’t want to lose him without realizing what I’m gaining from him.”

Patrick added that the move balances both personal and professional considerations. Especially with Patrick’s upcoming retirement approaching in February of 2028.

“It wasn’t fair to me to keep him here just for the betterment of the show,” he said. “This is for the betterment of himself, the business and his family.”

O’Connor has long been a central figure in the show’s chemistry, contributing both behind the scenes and on the microphone. His transition represents a shift in structure, but not in presence. While Friday marks the end of his current role, O’Connor made clear his connection to the program remains intact.

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Kroenke Sports & Entertainment Adds Lacy Ekert, Curran Raclin to Leadership Team

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Kroenke Sports & Entertainment Adds Lacy Ekert, Curran Raclin to Leadership Team

Kroenke Sports & Entertainment has made two hires to fill newly created leadership roles within the organization.

Lacy Ekert has been named Chief Commercial Officer, effective May 1, and Curran Raclin stepped into the role of Senior Vice President of Strategy & Analytics last month.

Ekert will take on responsibility for all sponsorship, naming rights, and commercial partnerships across KSE’s portfolio — which includes the Denver Nuggets, Colorado Avalanche, Colorado Rapids, and Colorado Mammoth.

She will also oversee media sales integration for Altitude Sports and the organization’s radio assets. Before joining KSE, Ekert served as Chief Partnership Officer for the NFL’s Cincinnati Bengals. Her previous experience also includes Vice President of Global Partnership Development at BSE Global — parent company of the Brooklyn Nets, New York Liberty, and Barclays Center — as well as Director of Global Partnerships at Topgolf Entertainment Group.

Raclin, meanwhile, will lead data, business analytics, and business technology for the organization. He spent more than seven years at the NHL, most recently as Senior Vice President of Fan Engagement, Analytics & Research. Prior to that, his career included roles at the Madison Square Garden Company, Turnkey Sports & Entertainment, and the Boston Red Sox — giving him more than two decades of experience in strategy and analytics.

Both executives will report to Kevin Demoff, KSE’s President of Teams and Media Operations.

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MLB Announces New YouTube Programming Aimed To Bring Kids Closer to the Game

BSM Staff
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MLB Announces New YouTube Programming Aimed To Bring Kids Closer to the Game

Major League Baseball (MLB) is taking a direct swing at building its next generation of fans. On Tuesday, Major League Baseball announced the launch of MLB Clubhouse, a new youth-focused content platform built for YouTube. The initiative centers on introducing baseball and softball to younger audiences through entertaining, accessible programming tailored specifically for kids.

The platform features a mix of original series. That includes animation, player storytelling, highlights and educational content. MLB designed the lineup to meet kids where they already spend time while also showcasing the sport’s personalities and creativity.

MLB Clubhouse launches with several notable partners. The league is expanding its relationship with ABCmouse following a successful 2025 collaboration that generated more than 11 million views. Content from the educational platform will now live alongside new material on MLB Clubhouse. Meanwhile, Crayola joins as a partner on MLB Art Club, a series built to blend baseball with creativity.

The programming slate offers a variety of entry points for young viewers.

One of the flagship shows is The Doug Out!, a stop-motion animated series. The show follows a young fan named Doug and his friend Scout as they explore different aspects of baseball. New episodes began rolling out April 7 on YouTube Kids, including a debut installment focused on the Seattle Mariners and catcher Cal Raleigh.

Another key offering is MLB Art Club. Developed alongside Crayola, the series encourages kids to draw mascots and team symbols while learning baseball facts. The first season includes 34 episodes and mixes art tutorials with trivia and interactive elements.

MLB is also leaning into storytelling and player development. No Easy Outs highlights the challenges athletes face on their journey to the professional level. In addition, Let’s Play Ball serves as a resource hub for kids, parents and coaches. The series provides drills and tips from MLB and AUSL players.

Gregg Klayman, MLB’s senior vice president of product development and content strategy, said the league sees the platform as a natural evolution. He noted that reaching kids on familiar platforms creates new opportunities to build lasting connections with the sport.

“By creating content specifically designed for kids on a platform where they are already watching, we hope to inspire curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of baseball,” Klayman said.

MLB worked with an experienced creative team to develop the platform. That group includes Emmy Award-winning creator Adam Reid, who helped shape the animated series.

The league believes MLB Clubhouse can help bridge the gap between traditional fandom and younger audiences. With consistent content and recognizable partners, MLB is betting that digital-first storytelling will keep baseball relevant for years to come.

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Craig Carton: Women’s College Basketball Tournament Should Not Occur During Men’s Tournament To Increase Exposure

BSM Staff
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Craig Carton: Women’s College Basketball Tournament Should Not Occur During Men’s Tournament To Increase Exposure

WFAN host Craig Carton is drawing attention after candidly explaining why he skipped the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament during a recent edition of his The Craig Carton Show on SportsGrid.

Carton acknowledged he did not watch any portion of the tournament. He framed that admission as part of a broader issue surrounding the sport’s place in a crowded calendar. According to Carton, the biggest storyline from the weekend centered on behavior of Geno Auriemma and Dawn Staley rather than the women’s title game itself.

“What’s sad about that. For me to come in here today and tell you that the number one story in sports this weekend has nothing at all to do with who won the championship game. It has everything to do with what the biggest name in the sport, how he acted after losing. That tells you a lot about, sadly, where the women’s game is for a lot of us,” said Carton.

That perspective led him to suggest the women’s tournament still has ground to gain with some viewers. He argued that his own viewing habits reflect how many fans prioritize events when multiple high-profile competitions overlap.

Carton also addressed Dawn Staley directly. He praised her while apologizing for not tuning in. At the same time, he offered a scheduling suggestion.

“Matter of fact, if I could give you guys some advice. I think the women’s tournament should come after the men’s tournament, and not at the same time,” said Carton. “I got too much going on and can’t watch it.”

Carton also acknowledged a personal factor. He said he does not regularly follow women’s sports, though he expressed respect for prominent figures within the game. Even so, he admitted that family time and other sports interests took priority.

“I’m not into women’s sports that much,” explained Carton. “Baseball’s already started. The men are playing. I got the NBA in the final weekend after that season. It’s just too much going on for me to tell my wife and family, nah, daddy’s got to watch women play basketball.”

In recent years, women’s college basketball has seen a surge in visibility and ratings. Star power, improved coverage and competitive games have helped elevate interest. That momentum has led many to view the tournament as a premier event in its own right.

Carton’s remarks highlight a tension that continues to exist. While the sport has made significant strides, it still competes for attention in an increasingly saturated environment. His suggestion about scheduling reflects one possible solution, though it is far from universally accepted.

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