Particle.news
Download on the App Store

NBC Finalizing Rizzo, Votto and Kershaw for MLB Return

Bob Costas anchors pregame under a $600 million, three-year pact that returns MLB to NBC.

Sep 24, 2023; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Reds first baseman Joey Votto (19) acknowledges the crowd before his first at bat in the second inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 3, 2025; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw (22) speaks to fans during the World Series celebration at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Sep 13, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Former Chicago Cubs player and team ambassador Anthony Rizzo is interviewed prior to a game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Front Office Sports reported that NBC is finalizing deals with Joey Votto and Clayton Kershaw and has Anthony Rizzo set to join its 2026 MLB coverage.
  • Kershaw is expected to contribute as an occasional analyst on a limited schedule, according to the reports.
  • NBC takes over Sunday night games from ESPN under a three-year agreement worth about $600 million and holds exclusive rights to the wild-card round.
  • The network has already named Bob Costas as host of the Sunday Night Baseball pregame show as it rebuilds its baseball presence.
  • Programming plans also feature a Sunday Leadoff package alongside the new national Sunday night window.