NBC Sports is making a strong return to Major League Baseball by signing Clayton Kershaw, Anthony Rizzo, and Joey Votto to join its broadcast team this fall. These additions come as NBC prepares to air Sunday Night Baseball and the Wild Card playoff round for the first time in 26 years, bringing the network back into a prominent role in baseball coverage.
Clayton Kershaw Brings Championship Experience to NBC
Clayton Kershaw, fresh off winning the World Series with the Los Angeles Dodgers, offers invaluable playoff experience and credibility for NBC’s broadcasts. As a three-time World Series champion, National League MVP, and three-time NL Cy Young Award winner, Kershaw’s decorated career includes 11 All-Star selections and five ERA titles. His presence is expected to draw viewers due to his status as one of the most recognized and respected pitchers in baseball history, although reports indicate
he is expected to work a limited schedule.
Anthony Rizzo Adds Leadership and Charisma
Anthony Rizzo brings both leadership and personality to the NBC team. Known especially for his key role in the Chicago Cubs’ 2016 World Series victory, ending a 108-year championship drought, Rizzo has had a commendable career highlighted by four Gold Glove awards and seven seasons with 25 or more home runs. As a former recipient of the Roberto Clemente Humanitarian Award, he is expected to contribute thoughtful commentary and engage audiences with his front-office experience and on-field leadership.
Joey Votto Emerges as a Prominent TV Prospect
Joey Votto, the former Cincinnati Reds first baseman, is regarded by MLB media partners including NBC, Netflix, and ESPN as a top television prospect. His natural talent for media work was praised by a sports producer who stated,
Joey Votto is, in my opinion, a no-brainer. He’s an MVP. He has a national name. He’s a natural in front of the camera.
This opportunity with NBC gives Votto a platform to showcase his broadcasting skills as he joins some of baseball’s best to help lead the network’s coverage.
NBC’s Return Marks a New Era for Baseball Broadcasting
The addition of Kershaw, Rizzo, and Votto signals NBC’s commitment to delivering expert analysis and engaging commentary as it returns after more than two decades. Their mix of playoff experience, leadership, and media appeal positions NBC to attract a wide base of baseball fans eager for in-depth coverage this postseason. Moving forward, viewers can expect these prominent former players to become influential voices in how baseball stories are told on television.
