Chicago’s crosstown rivals will be returning to the national spotlight this weekend. According to Sports Media Watch, ESPN will be broadcasting Sunday night’s White Sox vs. Cubs exhibition at Wrigley Field.
A spokesman from the network has confirmed with Sox On 35th that it will be Jon “Boog” Sciambi and Rick Sutcliffe in the booth. They will be calling the game in place of the usual tandem of Matt Vasgersion and Alex Rodriguez. Unfortunately, for those in the area hoping to view the telecast, it is indeed subject to local blackout restrictions.
While it’s always welcomed to see the Sox recognized on a national level, I personally wouldn’t budge from NBC Sports Chicago and it looks like many won’t have a choice. Aside from getting a home broadcast, veteran color commentator and the well-beloved Steve Stone is set to make his summer debut alongside Jason Benetti.
As will be customary for all road games this season, Benetti and Stone will be calling the action from Guaranteed Rate Field to avoid any unnecessary travel and contact with individuals. It seems as though ESPN will be handling their broadcast similarly by pulling a feed from one of the local networks and having their on-air talent announce remotely.
I, for one, am very intrigued to see how these productions turn out. First pitch on Sunday is currently set for 7:05 PM CT.
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Great article! If I’m not mistaken, it would be the first time since the Summer of 2018 that ESPN airs a game featuring the White Sox. I hope not to miss this game on Sunday.