Joe Buck Returns to Baseball Broadcasting with ESPN

Joe Buck, the renowned sports broadcaster and previous voice of the World Series on Fox, is set to return to the baseball broadcast booth this season. Fans can catch him in action during an ESPN game between the New York Mets and the Los Angeles Dodgers on April 15. This game marks the kickoff of ESPN’s newly revamped Major League Baseball (MLB) broadcasting package.

ESPN’s New MLB Broadcast Package

ESPN is shaking things up with its MLB coverage in 2025. Here’s what to expect:

• Launch Date: April 15
• Featured Matchup: Mets vs. Dodgers
• Total Games: 30 games will be broadcasted throughout the season
• Changes: ESPN will no longer air "Sunday Night Baseball" or the wild-card playoff round

Buck announced his return during an appearance on the SI Media with Jimmy Traina podcast, expressing enthusiasm about being behind the mic once again.

Joe Buck’s Broadcasting Journey

Having transitioned from Fox to ESPN in 2021, Buck took a break from regularly calling baseball games. However, he has made a couple of noteworthy appearances in the broadcast booth:

• Opening Day 2025: Buck called the Yankees vs. Brewers game.
• Midseason Appearance 2024: He provided commentary for a matchup between the Cardinals and Rangers on Bally Sports Midwest.

"Preparation for early-season broadcasts is less daunting," Buck elaborated. "It’s easier to discuss teams and players when reflecting on the start of a season."

Buck on Calling the Mets-Dodgers Game

When discussing the upcoming game, Buck shared:

“For someone who hasn’t been involved in the game for four years, it’s easier to launch off the beginning of a season. The lineup for the Dodgers is star-studded, with many potential Hall of Famers.”

This insight reflects his confidence in navigating the rich storylines associated with both teams, making for an engaging viewing experience.

Why Early Season Games are Ideal for Broadcasters

Based on Buck’s experience, early-season matches have distinct advantages:

• Easier Preparation: Reviewing the teams and players is less overwhelming.
• Familiarity with Statistics: There’s a shorter span of events to analyze, making it easier to discuss performance trends.
• Exciting New Beginnings: Teams have fresh narratives, setting the stage for engaging storylines.

Challenges of Late Season Broadcasts

As the season progresses, Buck noted:

“Accepting a gig later in the year would require significant effort to catch up. It’s tough without completely isolating myself.”

This transparency highlights the challenges broadcasters face as they enter the playoffs, emphasizing the need for comprehensive preparation.

Conclusion

Fans can look forward to a riveting broadcast experience as Joe Buck returns to the MLB scene. Mark your calendars for April 15 and tune into ESPN to witness his coverage of the Mets versus Dodgers game. Buck’s expertise and knowledge are sure to add excitement to the proceedings, making it a must-watch for baseball enthusiasts.

For more about Major League Baseball and its broadcasting innovations, visit MLB’s official website.