Fox is officially changing the sounds of the game. They will be replacing Tom Verducci and Harold Reynolds with former pitcher John Smoltz; he will be paired with Joe Buck, who will remain in the booth, Fox confirmed to Sports Illustrated.

“I think the opportunity to add someone with the credentials of John Smoltz was just something too hard to pass up,” said Fox Sports executive producer John Entz. “He’s been doing broadcasting for the past four to five years and to see his growth trajectory has been remarkable. To hear John Smoltz calling the World Series, a guy who has played in many World Series games, we think this will be a great fit for viewers.”

Entz said Verducci will remain as an announcer in some capacity and that a role for Reynolds is still being worked out.

“I am extremely excited to be able to continue my broadcasting career with Fox Sports, and I am honored to be named lead analyst alongside Joe Buck,” Smoltz said, in a statement. “Joe is a good friend of mine and the best in the business. He’s someone I have known and respected for a long time, and I am really looking forward to getting to work with him on a more regular basis. This is a tremendous opportunity, and I couldn’t be happier.”

Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter!

A week of sports news in your in-box.
We find the sports news you need to know, so you don't have to.

Fox also expects to bring Pete Rose back to the booth in some capacity; the former Red appeared on the Fox broadcast during some postseason games.

CHECK OUT OUR INTERVIEW WITH MOOKIE WILSON HERE:

Read more about:

Leave a comment

Joe Kozlowski

Article by Joe Kozlowski

Listen to the uInterview Podcast!
Get the most-revealing celebrity conversations with the uInterview podcast!