The Varsity Marchand, Round 2!
Apr 2, 2025
Andrew Marchand, a savvy media reporter for The Athletic, returns for a lively discussion on the evolving sports broadcasting landscape. He dives into NFL's streaming strategy, highlighting Amazon's game-changing influence and Netflix's holiday offerings. The conversation shifts to ESPN's potential reacquisition of Sunday Night Baseball rights and the challenges faced in MLB broadcasting. Marchand also shares insights on J.J. Watt's transition to CBS, unpacking the competitive dynamics shaping the future of sports media. It's a captivating mix of analysis and humor!
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Episode notes
ESPN and Baseball's Future
- ESPN's coverage and promotion of baseball won't change despite their expiring deal.
- The real impact is on the employees who might lose jobs, not on the league's overall visibility.
Baseball Tonight Cancellation
- Andrew Marchand briefly worked as an analyst for ESPN's Baseball Tonight.
- The show was cancelled shortly after his appearance, jokingly suggesting a correlation.
Coverage Driven by Ratings
- ESPN prioritizes coverage of popular teams like the Dallas Cowboys due to their higher ratings and advertising revenue.
- This is a business decision driven by viewer interest, not personal preferences.