Fox Removes Tom Verducci and Harold Reynolds From MLB Broadcasts

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.”

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.

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Article by Joe Kozlowski