The Varsity cover image

The Varsity

The MLB-ESPN Breakup Song

Feb 26, 2025
Evan Drellich, a baseball reporter for The Athletic known for his insightful coverage of the MLB and ESPN split, dives into the complexities of the recent divorce between the two giants. He shares why he believes this isn’t the end of their relationship, discusses the financial fallout from collapsing regional sports networks, and previews upcoming labor negotiations. The conversation also hints at potential rule changes for baseball, including the introduction of automated umpire technology by 2026.
40:38

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Evan Drellich highlights the anticipated challenges in MLB's evolving relationship with ESPN, particularly regarding media rights and future negotiations.
  • The looming labor disruptions in MLB signify deep-rooted salary disparities and the need for strategic resolutions amidst ongoing financial changes.

Deep dives

Power Dynamics in College Sports

Recent upheavals in college sports have intensified the competition for power among major conference commissioners, notably Greg Sankey of the SEC and Tony Petiti of the Big Ten. Their decisions will greatly influence the future landscape of college athletics, with suggestions of potential mergers, such as Mike Krzyzewski's idea of combining the ACC and Big East. Big East Commissioner Val Ackerman acknowledged that the conference is exploring various alliances, indicating that strategic collaboration may be on the horizon. The power dynamics in college sports are prompting other commissioners to consider novel strategies to thrive amidst this changing environment.

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