The biggest news was the confirmation that popular Boston Red Sox announcer Don Orsillo signed on to broadcast select games on radio and television next year.
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Boston Red Sox broadcaster Don Orsillo (right) acknowledges the crowd during the eighth inning of a game between the Red Sox and Orioles Sunday at Fenway Park.
As Hall of Fame broadcaster Dick Enberg finishes up his career after the conclusion of the 2016 season, Orsillo will take over full time in 2017.
“Over the past decade, Padres fans have gotten to know Bob on both television and radio broadcasts, and have come to appreciate both his knowledge of the game and the insight he adds as a former player”, said Padres chief marketing officer Wayne Partello.
30 a new broadcasting lineup for the 2016 season. Following the tribute, the fans and players gave Orsillo a standing ovation, which just shows you how much he will be missed in Boston.
Orsillo, who is beloved in Boston, reportedly received a six-year contract.
The San Diego Padres announced Wednesday that Orsillo will be joining their Fox Sports San Diego broadcast team beginning next season on a multi-year deal. Padres CEO Mike Dee is very familiar with Orsillo’s work, as he worked as an executive for the Red Sox from 2002 to 2009, and the team was clearly looking for a replacement for its 80-year-old announcer. “Don has established himself as one of the premier play-by-play men in the game”. NESN and the Red Sox to a larger extent are the reason that this has gotten blown up as much as it did, obviously there was going to be a few backlash amongst fans after the decision was made but the way they have handled it has been borderline embarrassing. He will once again be joined by former Major Leaguer Mark Grant, who will mark his 21st season in the role of color analyst for Padres television broadcasts.
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After NESN was blindsided by the reaction, there were a few discussions among Orsillo, the Red Sox, and WEEI about the possibility of his moving to the radio side next season and remaining in the market, but the option was never seriously considered.
