Red Sox Television Announcers: A New Era Begins in 2025
The Boston Red Sox are set to make a significant change to their broadcasting team in 2025. Starting that year, Red Sox radio announcers will become direct employees of the team, rather than employees of WEEI or its parent company, Audacy. This shift in employment structure, while maintaining the games on WEEI and its network, offers the Red Sox the opportunity to directly influence the broadcast team’s composition and style. This comes at a pivotal time, following the retirement of legendary Red Sox radio broadcaster Joe Castiglione.
Castiglione’s Retirement Creates Opportunity for New Red Sox Voices
Joe Castiglione, a fixture of Red Sox radio for decades, recently announced his retirement, leaving a significant void in the broadcast booth. Castiglione’s departure creates an opening for a new generation of Red Sox announcers. While the team will collaborate with WEEI on hiring decisions, the shift in employment allows the Red Sox greater control over selecting Castiglione’s successor. Will Flemming, Castiglione’s current broadcast partner, is considered a leading candidate. Flemming, currently on a one-year contract, faced a complex offseason in 2023, having been considered for television announcer positions with the Chicago White Sox and Detroit Tigers.
Potential for NESN Crossover to Red Sox Radio
With the Red Sox assuming direct control of radio announcer hiring, speculation abounds regarding potential changes to the broadcast team. One possibility is the integration of analysts from NESN’s television broadcasts into the radio team. This could lead to familiar voices from Red Sox television making appearances on the radio, further solidifying the connection between the team and its fans across different media platforms. The Red Sox extended their rights deal with WEEI and Audacy through 2028 back in October 2021, ensuring games will continue to be broadcast on WEEI’s flagship station and its network throughout New England.
A Fond Farewell to a Red Sox Broadcasting Legend
Castiglione’s retirement marks the end of an era for Red Sox fans. He was known for his deep knowledge of the game, his distinctive voice, and his passionate delivery. Even at 77, Castiglione remained a sharp and engaging broadcaster, connecting with listeners on a personal level. His absence will be deeply felt by generations of Red Sox fans who grew up listening to his broadcasts. He was praised for his genuine enthusiasm for the Red Sox, evident in his reactions to both triumphs and defeats.
The Future of Red Sox Radio and Television
The upcoming changes to the Red Sox radio broadcast team promise a new era for fans. While the specific lineup remains undetermined, the team’s increased involvement in personnel decisions suggests a commitment to shaping the future of its broadcasts. With Castiglione’s legacy as a foundation, the Red Sox will seek to build a broadcast team that continues to inform, entertain, and connect with fans for years to come. The integration of television and radio talent could create a more cohesive and dynamic broadcasting experience for Red Sox Nation.
