The White Sox organization has recently made an exciting announcement, revealing their partnership with ESPN’s John Schriffen as their television play-by-play announcer. This news comes after Jason Benetti took a similar position with the Detroit Tigers in November. Schriffen, an experienced broadcaster, will be working alongside longtime analyst Steve Stone for NBC Sports Chicago.
During a recent meeting in Arizona, the chairman of the White Sox, Jerry Reinsdorf, shared his passion for the team and the rich history of baseball with Schriffen. This left Schriffen feeling particularly enthusiastic about joining the White Sox organization. The timing of this opportunity aligns perfectly with the next step in his broadcasting career, which involves immersing himself in a team, building a deeper understanding of the game, and becoming an integral part of the Chicago community.
Schriffen’s career in broadcasting has been diverse, giving him a wide range of experience. He joined ESPN in 2020 and has since called select Saturday and Sunday games for ESPN radio’s MLB broadcasts. Additionally, he has covered NCAA basketball, football, baseball, and softball games, as well as the NBA G League and summer league for the network. Schriffen’s goal is to call the majority of the White Sox games, although he does not yet have an exact number. Despite his commitment to the White Sox, he hopes to continue working for ESPN during the offseason.
As a biracial individual, Schriffen brings a fresh perspective and unique background to the broadcasting team. He joins Seattle’s Dave Sims as one of the only Black TV play-by-play announcers in the league. Interestingly, Schriffen’s grandfather, Alphonso Deal, served as the president of the NAACP’s Philadelphia chapter, highlighting his family’s legacy of promoting social justice.
Prior to joining ESPN, Schriffen held various notable positions in sports broadcasting. He was a studio host for NFL Network and served as a play-by-play broadcaster and sideline reporter for CBS Sports from 2015 to 2020. Additionally, he worked as a correspondent for ABC News, contributing reports for “Good Morning America” and “Nightline” from 2012 to 2014. Schriffen’s broadcasting journey began after he graduated from Dartmouth, where he showcased his skills as a pitcher.
The White Sox organization has made a significant move by partnering with John Schriffen as their new television play-by-play announcer. His experience, versatility, and passion for the game make him an excellent addition to the team. As the White Sox seek to build a strong community presence, Schriffen’s commitment to getting to know the team and the city of Chicago will undoubtedly contribute to their success. Additionally, his diverse background brings a fresh perspective to the broadcasting industry, promoting representation and inclusivity. With this multiyear deal in place, the White Sox and their fans can look forward to a thrilling and engaging broadcast experience.
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