From the Mound to the Mic: Former Red Sox All-Star Joins ESPN in Bold Career Shift
In a move that’s turning heads in both the sports broadcasting and baseball communities, former Boston Red Sox All-Star pitcher Nathan Eovaldi is stepping into the spotlight once again — this time, behind the microphone. ESPN has officially announced that Eovaldi will join its baseball broadcast team for the remainder of the MLB season, marking his first major venture into sports media since stepping away from the mound.
Eovaldi, known for his dominant postseason performances and fierce competitiveness, especially during the Red Sox’s 2018 World Series run, brings a wealth of knowledge, charisma, and firsthand insight to the commentary booth. Fans will remember his unforgettable six-inning relief appearance in Game 3 of that series — a performance that cemented his legacy in Boston lore, despite the team losing the game in 18 innings.
The move to ESPN comes as part of the network’s ongoing effort to freshen up its baseball coverage with authentic voices that have recently exited the game. Eovaldi, now 35, offers a contemporary player’s perspective, something ESPN believes will connect with both seasoned fans and the younger generation alike.
“I’m excited for the opportunity to share the game I love from a new angle,” Eovaldi said in a statement. “I’ve always been passionate about the strategy and nuance of baseball, and I’m looking forward to breaking it all down for viewers in a way that’s both informative and fun.”
Sources close to the network say Eovaldi will start as an analyst for select Sunday Night Baseball broadcasts and contribute to ESPN’s MLB studio shows throughout the season. His role is expected to expand as he grows more comfortable in front of the camera.
The transition from player to broadcaster isn’t new, but Eovaldi’s move is already drawing praise from players and media personalities alike. Many note his articulate nature and deep understanding of the game — from pitch selection and sequencing to clubhouse dynamics — as reasons why he’s likely to thrive in his new role.
ESPN’s VP of production, Phil Orlins, commented on the hire: “Nathan’s a gamer — on and off the field. We’re thrilled to have his passion, his stories, and his analytical mind on our team. He brings a championship mentality and a fresh energy that we believe viewers are really going to respond to.” While it’s still early days, this career pivot could be the start of a long broadcasting tenure for Eovaldi, much like former pros David Cone, Alex Rodriguez, and Jessica Mendoza — all of whom made successful leaps from the dugout to the desk. For Red Sox fans, it’s a bittersweet moment. Though they won’t see him toe the rubber again in Fenway, they’ll now hear his insights from the broadcast booth — a place where he’ll continue to impact the game he played with so much heart.
As the 2025 season heats up, one thing’s for sure: Nathan Eovaldi is back in the game — and this time, his voice might be as powerful as his fastball.
