ESPN’s transition to a new Major League Baseball (MLB) schedule has led to the departure of veteran commentator David Cone from its broadcasts. As reported by The Athletic’s Andrew Marchand, Cone will not be returning to provide coverage for the network following a significant overhaul of its broadcasting schedule.
For the past four years, Cone has been integral to ESPN’s “Sunday Night Baseball,” joining fellow commentators Eduardo Pérez and Karl Ravech in delivering play-by-play analysis. This shift comes as part of ESPN’s recently announced three-year, $550 million agreement with MLB, which moves games from their traditional Sunday night slots to midweek evenings. This new schedule creates a conflict with Cone’s prior commitments to the YES Network, where he serves as a commentator for Yankees games alongside Paul O’Neill.
In their statement, ESPN expressed gratitude for Cone’s contributions, wishing him well in his future endeavors. As the network navigates its updated lineup of commentators, they are reportedly considering new talent, including former player Joey Votto, to join the broadcasting team.
This change marks a significant shift in ESPN’s approach to MLB coverage, aiming to adapt to evolving fan preferences and enhance viewership throughout the week. As networks adapt to the entertainment landscape, they often navigate the balance between securing talent and meeting the demands of scheduling conflicts.