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TBS, The Turner Broadcast System, based in Atlanta HATES their own city, so it seems. I typically give national announcers the benefit of the doubt but this series is trying me. The broadcast team of Brian Anderson, Ron Darling and Jeff Francouer is showing signs of bias. Francouer does his best to stay fairly neutral and at least combats the obvious bias of Ron Darling but it doesn't always shine through. There have been numerous moments during the NLCS where it feels that the announcers are all over the Dodgers and want them to advance. Nothing stood out more than when Cody Bellinger hit a game-tying homer in the 8th of Game Three. You could hear the excitement in Anderson's voice as the ball soared towards the stands. One could argue that it was an exciting moment in the game and arguably the biggest at bat of the game. However, for Ron Darling to say "yes!," twice? That's called bias. Sure, it's a big moment and one worth celebrating for the Dodgers yet as an announcer, you have to stay as neutral as possible.
Last night, during Game 4, Anderson seemed a little less aggressive, even when Eddie Rosario jacked two homers and nearly hit for the cycle. Granted, Rosario isn't a "premiere" player like Freeman, Swanson or Acuna, yet he's putting up better numbers than 90% of the players in the series. When Rosario hit his final homer, Anderson was softer in his call, granted it truly put the game out of reach, leading 9-2.
Here are some reasons Major League Baseball and TBS would want the Dodgers over the Braves. Los Angeles is the second largest media market in the US (New York is number one.) This means more money for advertising and reach to customers. There's a reason why they have two MLB, NFL, NHL and NBA franchises. Why does that matter? It doesn't. The Atlanta Braves fan base covers numerous states, thanks in part to TBS in the 90's. That said, put respect where respect is due. The Braves lead the series, have had two walk off wins and evoke more emotion in the games than the Dodgers.
Basically, we have to PROVE EM WRONG! Game 5 is tonight from LA. First pitch at 8:08p.
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