By Lewis Gould
The Athletic is reporting that MASN is dumping pregame and postgame shows for the Nats and Orioles, and is also cutting on-air staff covering both teams.
Britt Ghiroli’s report notes that among those let go are Mike Bordick, Tom Davis, Rick Dempsey, Jim Hunter, Dave Johnson, and most notably, Gary Thorne. Davis, Dempsey, Hunter, and Thorne weren’t part of the team’s broadcast plans in 2020 due to COVID-19 concerns, though Thorne eventually came to an agreement to return remotely in a limited capacity for 2020. Interestingly, The Athletic’s article about Thorne’s return pointed to a contract dispute, rather than the pandemic, as the reason he wasn’t involved in broadcasts.
Hunter tweeted about his departure:
(1/2) I was informed this week by @Orioles my contract will not be renewed for 2021 ending my career w/the ball club. It’s disappointing to have my tenure come to an end especially since it was not my decision. For 24 years I gave my heart & soul to the broadcasts & now it’s over
— Jim Hunter (@JimHunterTalks) January 22, 2021
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