Fox Broadcast Team Faces Backlash During MLB Playoffs

The broadcasting team for Fox Sports‘ coverage of the National League Division Series between the New York Mets and the Philadelphia Phillies has stirred controversy among fans. The inclusion of former St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Adam Wainwright has brought back bittersweet memories for Mets supporters. During the 2006 National League Championship Series, Wainwright, then a rookie closer, famously struck out Carlos Beltrán with his curveball, ending the Mets’ postseason hopes and propelling the Cardinals to a World Series victory, which they won. Many fans find his presence in the broadcast booth to be a reminder of that challenging period.

Fans have expressed their displeasure on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, criticizing the decision to have Wainwright cover a Mets playoff game. “Honestly doesn’t matter who’s calling the game on TV. I got…” one fan commented, highlighting the intensity of feelings regarding Wainwright’s role.

The backlash extends beyond Wainwright to the rest of the team, which includes Adam Amin and A.J. Pierzynski. Complaints revolve around perceived bias during Sunday’s Game 2, an issue both Amin and Pierzynski have addressed. Amin joked about a “quadfecta of bias,” while Pierzynski stated on his show ‘Foul Territory,’ “We pissed off both sides, so I think we did well.” He continued, “If both teams hate you, if both fan bases hate you, that means you’re doing your job.”

Pierzynski elaborated on the situation, noting that the broadcast team focused on significant gameplay happenings, such as Phillies pitcher Zack Wheeler‘s performance, and the Mets’ substantial inning. During that time, the Mets scored five runs, leading to accusations of showing preference towards New York. “When a team’s putting up a five-run inning… Guess what you got to talk about? The Mets’ hitting,” he reasoned.

He also described a particularly exciting game featuring momentum shifts and a key home run by Bryce Harper, which buoyed the Phillies’ spirits. “Harper’s home run might’ve changed the Phillies’ postseason for the entire run because that home run, the crowd was deflated, and that one swing… it got them back into it,” Pierzynski remarked.

This year’s postseason matchup between the Mets and Phillies is both teams’ first in the playoffs, heightening tensions and expectations. While the criticism of the broadcast team persists, the thrilling nature of the series itself is drawing attention and entertainment for MLB fans.