Bob Costas, the legendary sports broadcaster, is back at NBC Sports, marking a significant return to his roots. After a nearly six-year hiatus, Costas will once again grace the airwaves as the host of the pregame show for Sunday Night Baseball. This move comes as a surprise to many, given his previous departure from the network in 2019. Costas' return coincides with the start of NBC's primetime MLB package in March, where he will be on the air for the Opening Day broadcast, a highly anticipated event in the baseball world. Costas' journey with NBC began in 1982 and continued until 2000, during which he covered multiple World Series and Game of the Week broadcasts. His departure in 2019 was a shock to many, but NBC Sports president Rick Cordella and production chief Sam Flood have welcomed him back with open arms, recognizing his invaluable contributions to the network's baseball coverage.
Costas, in a heartfelt statement, expressed his deep connection to NBC, calling it his 'true broadcasting home' for 40 years. He highlighted the numerous memorable moments, friendships, and experiences that shaped his career. This return to NBC marks a special conclusion to his broadcasting journey, as he takes on an 'emeritus' role, a fitting title for a veteran broadcaster winding down his career. Cordella emphasized Costas' extensive history with baseball and the network, making him the ideal choice for this role. The president also praised Costas' authority and passion for the sport, solidifying his status as a baseball icon.
The future of NBC's Sunday Night Baseball booth is yet to be fully revealed. While Costas is set to host the pregame show, the play-by-play role remains a topic of speculation. Fox's Jason Benetti is the leading candidate, but Kevin Brown, the Orioles TV voice, is also in the running. Additionally, the network is reportedly considering recently retired Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw for select studio appearances. Costas' involvement in NBC's NBA coverage this season, where he narrated opens for multiple games, further showcases his versatility and commitment to the network. His return to NBC Sports is a testament to his enduring legacy in the world of sports broadcasting.
