TBS’ Exclusive Presentation of 2015 National League Division Series

Begins Friday, October 9, at 6 p.m. ET 

Start Time Scenarios for NLDS Games 3-5 Announced 

TBS’ exclusive coverage of the National League Division Series (NLDS), presented by T-Mobile, begins Friday, October 9, with doubleheader action featuring the St. Louis Cardinals hosting the Chicago Cubs at 6:30 p.m. ET, followed by the New York Mets visiting the Los Angeles Dodgers at 9:30 p.m.  Coverage will begin at 6 p.m. with the MLB Postseason Pre-Game on TBS presented by Chrysler show.

The network’s NLDS Game 2 coverage on Saturday, Oct. 10, will include the Cubs vs. Cardinals at 5:30 p.m., followed by the Mets vs. Dodgers at 9 p.m.  Pre-game coverage will precede live game action at 5 p.m.

On Monday, Oct. 12 – if all four Division Series games are necessary – TBS will televise NLDS Game 3 action including the Cardinals visiting the Cubs at 6 p.m., along with the Mets hosting the Dodgers at 8:30 p.m.  The network’s pre-game coverage will begin at 5:30 p.m.   If three or fewer LDS games are necessary on Monday, Oct. 12, TBS’ schedule will feature Cardinals/Cubs at 4:30 p.m. and Dodgers/Mets at 8 p.m. with pre-game at 4 p.m.                                                                                                                                         

Tuesday’s potential NLDS Game 4 coverage (Oct. 13) will include Cardinals/Cubs at 4:30 p.m., with Dodgers/Mets beginning at 8 p.m. (if both NLDS Game 4s are necessary) and pre-game at 4 p.m.  If only one NLDS extends to a Game 4, the game will be aired at 8 p.m., with pre-game coverage beginning at 7:30 p.m.

On Thursday, Oct. 15, Cardinals/Cubs will be televised at 4:30 p.m., with Dodgers/Mets beginning at 8 p.m. and pre-game at 4 p.m., if both NLDS extend to Game 5. If only one NLDS extends to a Game 5, the game will be aired at 8 p.m., with pre-game coverage beginning at 7:30 p.m.

Ernie Johnson will provide play-by-play for the Dodgers/Mets series with analysts Ron Darling and Cal Ripken and reporter Sam Ryan.  Brian Anderson will call the Cardinals/Cubs series with analysts Dennis Eckersleyand Joe Simpson and reporter Matt Winer. TBS’ N.L. Division Series coverage is presented by T-Mobile.

Casey Stern will host all pre-game and post-game coverage (airing nightly on TBS game nights) with analysts Pedro Martinez, Gary Sheffield and Dusty Baker.

TBS will also exclusively televise the National League Championship Series (NLCS), scheduled to begin Saturday, Oct. 17, with Game 1 of the best-of-seven series.  NLCS coverage on TBS is presented by Exxon and Mobil.

Live streaming coverage of all MLB Postseason games airing on TBS will be available via www.tbs.com and the Watch TBS app.  Fans will be able to access the games whenever and wherever they desire by logging in with the user name and password provided by their TV service provider.

TBS’ MLB Postseason schedule through Game 4 of the National League Division Series:

Date	Time (ET)	Games/Commentator Teams
Fri, Oct. 9	6 p.m.	MLB Postseason Pre-Game on TBS presented by Chrysler Casey Stern, Pedro Martinez, Gary Sheffield, Dusty Baker
	6:30 p.m.	NLDS: Chicago Cubs at St. Louis Cardinals (Game 1) Brian Anderson (play-by-play), Dennis Eckersley and Joe Simpson (analysts) with Matt Winer (reporter)
	9:30 p.m.	NLDS: New York Mets at Los Angeles Dodgers (Game 1) Ernie Johnson, Ron Darling and Cal Ripken, Jr. with Sam Ryan (reporter)
	Postgame	The Postseason Show on TBS presented by The Lincoln Motor Company Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker
Sat, Oct. 10	5 p.m.	MLB Postseason Pre-Game on TBS presented by Chrysler Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker
	5:30 p.m.	NLDS: Cubs at Cardinals (Game 2) Anderson, Eckersley and Simpson with Winer
	9 p.m.	NLDS: Mets at Dodgers (Game 2) Johnson, Darling and Ripken with Ryan
	Postgame	The Postseason Show on TBS presented by The Lincoln Motor Company Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker
		IF ALL FOUR SERIES ARE STILL BEING PLAYED
Mon, Oct. 12	5:30 p.m. ET	MLB Postseason Pre-Game on TBS presented by Chrysler Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker
	6 p.m.	NLDS: Cardinals at Cubs (Game 3) Anderson, Eckersley and Simpson with Winer
	8:30 p.m.	NLDS: Dodgers at Mets (Game 3) Johnson, Darling and Ripken with Ryan
	Postgame	The Postseason Show on TBS presented by The Lincoln Motor Company Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker
		IF ONE OR BOTH OF THE ALDS HAVE CONCLUDED
Mon, Oct. 12	4 p.m.	MLB Postseason Pre-Game on TBS presented by Chrysler Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker
	4:30 p.m.	NLDS: Cardinals at Cubs (Game 3) Anderson, Eckersley and Simpson with Winer
	8 p.m.	NLDS: Dodgers at Mets (Game 3) Johnson, Darling and Ripken with Ryan
	Postgame	The Postseason Show on TBS presented by The Lincoln Motor Company Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker
		IF BOTH NLDS REACH GAME 4
Tue, Oct. 13	4 p.m.	MLB Postseason Pre-Game on TBS presented by Chrysler Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker
	4:30 p.m.	NLDS: Cardinals at Cubs (Game 4) Anderson, Eckersley and Simpson with Winer
	8 p.m.	NLDS: Dodgers at Mets (Game 4) Johnson, Darling and Ripken with Ryan
	Postgame	The Postseason Show on TBS presented by The Lincoln Motor Company Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker
		IF CARDINALS-CUBS HAS CONCLUDED
Tue, Oct. 13	7:30 p.m.	MLB Postseason Pre-Game on TBS presented by Chrysler Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker
	8 p.m.	NLDS: Dodgers at Mets (Game 4) Johnson, Darling and Ripken with Ryan
	Postgame	The Postseason Show on TBS presented by The Lincoln Motor Company Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker
		IF DODGERS-METS HAS CONCLUDED
Tue, Oct. 13	7:30 p.m.	MLB Postseason Pre-Game on TBS presented by Chrysler Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker
	8 p.m.	NLDS: Cardinals at Cubs (Game 4) Anderson, Eckersley and Simpson with Winer
	Postgame	The Postseason Show on TBS presented by The Lincoln Motor Company Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker
		IF BOTH NLDS REACH GAME 5
Thu, Oct. 15	4 p.m.	MLB Postseason Pre-Game on TBS presented by Chrysler Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker
	4:30 p.m.	NLDS: Cubs at Cardinals (Game 5 ) Anderson, Eckersley and Simpson with Winer
	8 p.m.	NLDS: Mets at Dodgers (Game 5)             Johnson, Darling and Ripken with Ryan
	Postgame	The Postseason Show on TBS presented by The Lincoln Motor Company Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker
		IF CARDINALS-CUBS HAS CONCLUDED
Thu, Oct. 15	7:30 p.m.	MLB Postseason Pre-Game on TBS presented by Chrysler Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker
	8 p.m.	NLDS: Mets at Dodgers (Game 5) Johnson, Darling and Ripken with Ryan
	Postgame	The Postseason Show on TBS presented by The Lincoln Motor Company Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker
		IF DODGERS-METS HAS CONCLUDED
Thu, Oct. 15	7:30 p.m.	MLB Postseason Pre-Game on TBS presented by Chrysler Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker
	8 p.m.	NLDS: Cubs at Cardinals (Game 5) Anderson, Eckersley and Simpson with Winer
	Postgame	The Postseason Show on TBS presented by The Lincoln Motor Company Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker

 

Postseason.TV Returns for 2015 MLB Postseason

In addition to its exclusive live game telecasts on TBS and live simulcast streaming on TBS.com and the Watch TBS app, Turner Sports and MLB Advanced Media will once again partner to provide fans with digital companion coverage via Postseason.TV.  Postseason.TV delivers baseball fans up to 10 live alternative camera angles and is available for every game televised by TBS during the MLB Postseason including the NL Wild Card game, NL Division Series and NL Championship Series.  Subscribers can customize their viewing experience by picking up to four different cameras simultaneously during live game action.  Fans can also exclusively watch live coverage of their team’s batting practice before each postseason game. Postseason.TV is accessible via desktop and mobile through MLB.com’s At Bat 15 app for supported iOS and Android smartphones and tablets.

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TBS to be Exclusive Home of the National League Throughout 2015 MLB Postseason Beginning with N.L. Wild Card Game Wednesday, Oct. 7, at 8 p.m. ET 

Live Streaming for Every TBS MLB Postseason Game Available Via Watch TBS App 

Turner Sports’ Postseason Studio Coverage to Include Use of

Virtual Reality Ballpark Models for First Time 

TBS will be the exclusive home of the National League throughout the 2015 MLB Postseason beginning with National League Wild Card Coverage on TBS Presented by Hankook Tire on Wednesday, Oct. 7, at 8 p.m. ET when former NL MVP Andrew McCutchen, dynamic right-hander Gerrit Cole and the Pittsburgh Pirates host rising stars Anthony Rizzo, Kris Bryant and Addison Russell, Cy Young contender Jake Arrieta and the Chicago Cubs.  Sports Emmy Award winning commentator Ernie Johnson will provide play-by-play for the game with analysts Ron Darling and Cal Ripken, Jr. and reporter Matt Winer.

Pregame coverage for the N.L. Wild Card will begin with the MLB Postseason Pre-Game on TBS presented by Chrysler show at 7:30 p.m. featuring Hall of Famer Pedro Martinez, nine-time All-Star Gary Sheffield and three-time NL Manager of the Year Dusty Baker joining host Casey Stern.  The studio team will also offer postgame analysis via The Postseason Show on TBS presented by The Lincoln Motor Company.

The network’s exclusive National League Division Series (NLDS) coverage will begin Friday, Oct. 9 at 6 p.m., with MLB Postseason Pre-Game on TBS presented by Chrysler.  At 6:30 p.m., the St. Louis Cardinals, owners of the best record in baseball, host the winner of the N.L. Wild Card Game, followed by aces Clayton Kershaw, Zack Greinke and the Los Angeles Dodgers opening their series against Yoenis Cespedes, young hurlers Jacob deGrom, Matt Harvey, Noah Syndergaard and the New York Mets at 9:30 p.m.  Johnson will provide play-by-play for the Mets vs. Dodgers series with Darling, Ripken and reporter Sam Ryan.  Brian Anderson will call the best-of-five Pirates/Cubs vs. Cardinals series with analysts Dennis Eckersley and Joe Simpson and Winer.  TBS’s NLDS coverage is presented by T-Mobile.

TBS will also exclusively televise the National League Championship Series (NLCS), scheduled to begin Saturday, Oct. 17, with Game 1 of the best-of-seven series.  NLCS coverage on TBS is presented by Exxon and Mobil.

Live streaming coverage of all MLB Postseason games airing on TBS will be available via http://www.tbs.com and the Watch TBS app.  Fans will be able to access the games whenever and wherever they desire by logging in with the user name and password provided by their TV service provider.

The network’s MLB Postseason game coverage will include:

• Live Vu – debuting during the NL Wild Card Game, the camera can send footage wirelessly from anywhere with an available wireless signal.  Live Vu will allow TBS to capture the sights and sounds from the road team’s city and incorporate that team’s fan base into the game telecast.
• Newly Designed Broadcast Booth – this year’s broadcast booth at each ballpark will include a 40-inch monitor to allow viewers to see who and what the announcers are breaking down while they appear on camera.  The booth’s design elements match TBS’s Postseason graphics package and the booth will be utilized during Inside the Booth presented by Esurance segments.
• Sony HDC-4300 Cameras – these super slow motion cameras will provide the viewer more angles of gripping super slow motion replays during key moments of the game.  These cameras are able to capture 1920 x 1080 high-definition images at a frame rate six times above normal.  Each TBS MLB Postseason game telecast will utilize five HDC-4300s (two more than 2014), with a sixth camera added for the NLCS.
• Statcast powered by Amazon Web Services – a revolutionary tracking technology that measures the elements of on-field performance including, but not limited to, pitch spin rates, batted ball exit velocity and defensive route efficiency.
• Player Microphones – during each NLCS game telecast, fans will feel part of the action, as they hear the sounds of the action from a player’s perspective, with added access and excitement via additional on-field microphones.
• Pitch Trax presented by Chevrolet – the on-screen graphic will be used to show pitch location and type, while also illustrating other variables such as a swinging strike vs. being caught looking.  It is also be able to display a hitter’s batting history against a specific pitcher.

New virtual elements for the 2015 MLB Postseason studio shows will include:

• Virtual Reality Ballpark Models – these 3D renderings are scale replicas of each NL Postseason team’s home ballpark.  Full 360-degree views from all vantage points are available, and cameras can zoom in to profile specific ballpark nuances while analysts break down strategy, execution and plays unique to each stadium.
• Offensive and Defensive Information – defensive alignments and shifts, along with hitter spray charts, will be overlaid onto the virtual reality field renderings.  This information will help fans visualize a team’s defensive strategy against certain hitters, based on their batted ball data.
• Virtual Monitors – on-screen graphics will be able to show match-ups, single player or team information and sponsorship elements.  These non-intrusive overlays will appear on screen while keeping camera shots focused on the commentators at the studio desk.
• NLCS On-Site Studio Shows – the MLB Postseason Pre-Game on TBS presented by Chrysler and The Postseason Show on TBS presented by The Lincoln Motor Company will both air live on site during the NLCS.  The shows will be located in outfield positions in areas with exposure to fans, to incorporate the ballpark atmosphere into the telecast.

TBS’ MLB Postseason schedule through the National League Division Series:

Date	Time (ET)	Games/Commentator Teams
Wed, Oct. 7	7:30 p.m.	MLB Postseason Pre-Game on TBS presented by Chrysler Casey Stern (host), Pedro Martinez, Gary Sheffield and Dusty Baker (analysts)
	8 p.m.	N.L. Wild Card Game: Chicago Cubs at Pittsburgh Pirates Ernie Johnson (play-by-play), Ron Darling and Cal Ripken (analysts) with Matt Winer (reporter)
	Postgame	The Postseason Show on TBS presented by The Lincoln Motor Company Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker
Fri, Oct. 9	6 p.m.	MLB Postseason Pre-Game on TBS presented by Chrysler Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker
	6:30 p.m.	NLDS: N.L. Wild Card Winner at St. Louis Cardinals (Game 1) Brian Anderson (play-by-play), Dennis Eckersley and Joe Simpson (analysts) with Winer (reporter)
	9:30 p.m.	NLDS: New York Mets at Los Angeles Dodgers (Game 1) Johnson, Darling and Ripken with Sam Ryan (reporter)
	Postgame	The Postseason Show on TBS presented by The Lincoln Motor Company Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker
Sat, Oct. 10	5 p.m.	MLB Postseason Pre-Game on TBS presented by Chrysler Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker
	5:30 p.m.	NLDS: N.L. Wild Card Winner at Cardinals (Game 2) Anderson, Eckersley and Simpson with Winer
	9 p.m.	NLDS: Mets at Dodgers (Game 2) Johnson, Darling and Ripken with Ryan
	Postgame	The Postseason Show on TBS presented by The Lincoln Motor Company Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker
Mon, Oct. 12	TBD	MLB Postseason Pre-Game on TBS presented by Chrysler Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker
	TBD	NLDS: Cardinals at N.L. Wild Card Winner (Game 3) Anderson, Eckersley and Simpson with Winer
	TBD	NLDS: Dodgers at Mets (Game 3) Johnson, Darling and Ripken with Ryan
	Postgame	The Postseason Show on TBS presented by The Lincoln Motor Company Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker
Tue, Oct. 13	TBD	MLB Postseason Pre-Game on TBS presented by Chrysler Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker
	TBD	NLDS: Cardinals at N.L. Wild Card Winner (Game 4 – if necessary) Anderson, Eckersley and Simpson with Winer
	TBD	NLDS: Dodgers at Mets (Game 4 – if necessary) Johnson, Darling and Ripken with Ryan
	Postgame	The Postseason Show on TBS presented by The Lincoln Motor Company Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker
Thu, Oct. 15	TBD	MLB Postseason Pre-Game on TBS presented by Chrysler Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker
	TBD	NLDS: N.L. Wild Card Winner at Cardinals (Game 5 – if necessary) Anderson, Eckersley and Simpson with Winer
	TBD	NLDS: Mets at Dodgers (Game 5 – if necessary) Johnson, Darling and Ripken with Ryan
	Postgame	The Postseason Show on TBS presented by The Lincoln Motor Company Stern, Martinez, Sheffield, Baker

 

Postseason.TV Returns for 2015 MLB Postseason

In addition to its exclusive live game telecasts on TBS and live simulcast streaming on TBS.com and the Watch TBS app, Turner Sports and MLB Advanced Media will once again partner to provide fans with digital companion coverage via Postseason.TV.  Postseason.TV delivers baseball fans up to 10 live alternative camera angles and is available for every game televised by TBS during the MLB Postseason including the NL Wild Card game, NL Division Series and NL Championship Series.  Subscribers can customize their viewing experience by picking up to four different cameras simultaneously during live game action.  Fans can also exclusively watch live coverage of their team’s batting practice before each postseason game. Postseason.TV is accessible via desktop and mobile through MLB.com’s At Bat 15 app for supported iOS and Android smartphones and tablets.

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Sunday MLB on TBS to Feature Full National Telecast Showcasing American League Postseason Contenders – Los Angeles Angels vs. Texas Rangers – Oct. 4 at 3 p.m. ET 

MLB on TBS Pregame Show presented by Chrysler Begins at 2:30 p.m.

This weekend’s Sunday MLB on TBS full national live game telecast (Oct. 4 at 3 p.m. ET) – the final day of the 2015 regular season – will showcase reigning American League MVP Mike Trout and the Los Angeles Angelsvisiting Prince Fielder, Adrian Beltre and the first place Texas Rangers.  The Angels are currently one-half game up in the AL Wild Card race and two games behind Texas in the AL West.  Ernie Johnson will provide play-by-play with analysts Cal Ripken, Jr. and Ron Darling.

The MLB on TBS Pregame Show presented by Chrysler – with host Casey Stern joined by Hall of Famer Pedro Martinez, nine-time All-Star Gary Sheffield and three-time National League Manager of the Year Dusty Baker – will begin at 2:30 p.m.

Live streaming coverage of all regular season MLB on TBS games is available via http://www.tbs.com/watchtbs/ and the Watch TBS app.  Fans are able to access the games whenever and wherever they desire by logging in with the user name and password provided by their TV service provider.

TBS is in its 8^th consecutive year of live regular season MLB game coverage, with a lineup featuring 13 regular season Sunday afternoon telecasts and an extensive MLB Postseason schedule including the exclusive presentation of National League Wild Card coverage on TBS presented by Hankook Tire, National League Division Series coverage on TBS presented by T-Mobile and National League Championship Series coverage on TBS presented by Exxon and Mobil this year.

Upcoming Sunday MLB on TBS Schedule

Oct. 4, 2:30 p.m. ET    MLB on TBS Pregame Show presented by Chrysler

3 p.m.    Los Angeles Angels @ Texas Rangers

Ernie Johnson (play-by-play), Cal Ripken, Jr. and Ron Darling (analysts)

Visit the Turner Sports online press room for additional press materials; follow Turner Sports on Twitter at @TurnerSportsPR.

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Coverage Continues with Full National Telecast August 2 – New York Yankees vs. Chicago White Sox – at 2 p.m.

Sunday MLB on TBS will continue July 26 with a match-up of National League playoff contenders, as the first place Los Angeles Dodgers and All-Stars Adrian Gonzalez, Yasmani Grandal and Joc Pederson visit the New York Mets and All-Star and probable starting pitcher Jacob deGrom at 1 p.m. ET.  Brian Anderson will provide play-by-play for the game, seen locally in the Los Angeles market, alongside veteran MLB on TBS analyst Ron Darling.

In a full national broadcast, Sunday MLB on TBS will feature the New York Yankees visiting the Chicago White Sox on August 2 at 2 p.m.  Dick Stockton will provide play-by-play, joined by Darling in the broadcast booth.

TBS is entering its 8^th consecutive year of live MLB game coverage, with a lineup featuring regular season telecasts each Sunday afternoon and an extensive MLB Postseason schedule including the exclusive presentation of the National League Wild Card Game, both National League Division Series and the National League Championship Series this year.

Upcoming Sunday MLB on TBS Schedule

July 26, 1 p.m.:            Los Angeles Dodgers @ New York Mets

Brian Anderson (play-by-play) and Ron Darling (analyst)

August 2, 2 p.m.:         New York Yankees @ Chicago White Sox

Dick Stockton (play-by-play) and Darling (analyst)

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Notes from Turner Sports’ 2015 Sunday MLB on TBS
Media Conference Call

 

Sunday MLB on TBS will return July 12 with the New York Yankees and Alex Rodriguez visiting the Boston Red Sox and David Ortiz at 1:30 p.m. ET.  Three-time Sports Emmy Award winning commentator Ernie Johnson will provide play-by-play for the game, seen locally in the Boston market, alongside veteran MLB on TBS analyst Ron Darling.

The following week, Sunday MLB on TBS will feature a match-up of current National League division leaders as the Los Angeles Dodgers and Yasiel Puig visit the Washington Nationals and Bryce Harper on July 19 at 1:30 p.m., with the telecast shown locally in Washington, D.C.  Hall of Famer Cal Ripken, Jr. will join Johnson and Darling in the broadcast booth.

TBS is entering its 8^th consecutive year of live MLB game coverage, with a lineup featuring regular season telecasts each Sunday afternoon and an extensive MLB Postseason schedule including the exclusive presentation of the National League Wild Card Game, both National League Division Series and the National League Championship Series this year.

Notes from today’s media conference call, featuring Ripken, Darling and 2015 Hall of Fame Inductee Pedro Martinez:

Ripken on the season’s most interesting storylines: “The Minnesota Twins are the big surprise.  I don’t think anyone expected them to play as well as they’ve played.  [Rookie Manager] Paul Molitor has done a fantastic job and seems like exactly what they needed.  They’re back again, they are always a good story as a small market team making good baseball decisions and baseball evaluations, putting a team together that’s competitive, similar to the Rays.  They will be fun to watch and see if they can keep it going in the second half.  The Oakland A’s are good, and you scratch your head and wonder why they aren’t winning.  The answer there is how important the defensive execution is in one run games and putting yourself in a position to win and developing momentum through their defense.  They are a good club, and it will be interesting to see what happens with them, if they make moves.  Billy Beane is always entertaining to try and predict [what he will do].  It will be fun to see their direction in the second half.”

Martinez on the season’s biggest surprise: “I was very sarcastic about them, so I have to tip my hat to the Houston Astros.  I kept saying no, no, they’re going to land.  I was the same way about the Mets, they wouldn’t hold on.  Both teams have really surprised me with how they’ve played and how consistent they are.  It’s no coincidence that probably the best pitcher in baseball is one of the Houston Astros [left-hander Dallas Keuchel]. I was sarcastic about them but they proved me wrong in the first half and now I have to believe the second half they will keep on playing baseball the way they have.”

Darling on the first half’s standout performers: “Josh Donaldson having an MVP year, he’s become one of my favorites to watch because of his grit and determination and Toronto is better for it…[Houston’s] Carlos Correa…is one of the brightest shortstop prospects we’ve seen in quite some time…We’re talking [a talent level] like the Mike Trouts and Bryce Harpers and Manny Machados.  The future of the game has some great young stars in it.”

Darling on the All-Star Final Vote candidates: “I’m lucky enough to watch [Mets closer Jeurys] Familia every day and he’s had an amazing year.  I think it’s going to be difficult for him to garner enough votes to beat out [Dodgers’ ace Clayton] Kershaw or [Rockies’ shortstop Troy] Tulowitzki.  He didn’t get the closer job until Mejia was suspended, and once he got it, he’s been as good as anyone in baseball.  He has seven saves of more than an inning, which is unheard of. He’s gone above and beyond and I’d like to see him rewarded because of that.  I’ll stick up for [Yankees’ outfielder Brett] Gardner in the American League, I hope he [wins the vote].  They’ve both been their team MVPs and it would be nice if they were rewarded for that.”

Ripken on the Final Vote: “Mine are more sentimental choices.  I know that the game matters for home field advantage in the World Series and if I’m in the manager’s seat I’d look at the make-up of the club and add a specialty piece.  I can’t imagine the way that Clayton Kershaw’s pitched the last few years [penalizing him for] looking a little bit human this year…I would vote for him and his body of work.  Brian Dozier from Minnesota, I really enjoy watching him play and compete.  He jumps out at me, but it’s not to slight anyone else on the list.”

Martinez on the Final Vote: “I have to agree with Ron on Familia because, when you look at the numbers, you don’t really stop to think of the importance he has had for the Mets.  The Mets had [reliever] Bobby Parnell go down, then [closer] Jenrry Mejia came up and got suspended.  If Familia wasn’t there, where would the Mets be, regardless of [Matt] Harvey and [Jacob] deGrom and those guys?  The kid has done an outstanding job and because of the importance of what he means to the team and how steady he has been, I think he deserves a chance.  On the other side, Dozier has done some unbelievable things for the Minnesota Twins and probably the biggest reason they are having the success they are having this year is because of what he does.”

Martinez on his upcoming Hall of Fame induction: “I’ve always been a fan of expressing what I feel at the time.  I had a draft of things and people I wanted to mention that I couldn’t have forgotten that have influenced me and my career and my life.  Things I wanted to say to the fan bases, but I’ll be speaking from my heart.  I’m anxious to see what it’s going to be like.  For Latinos and Dominicans, it’s not every day you get a Hall of Famer.  It’s been 32 years for a Dominican.  It’s really important to acknowledge that and maybe a lot of Dominicans will show up in Cooperstown.  We are different, we are loud, we have drums and merengue and I’m interested in seeing those things.  I did not know [the preparation] was going to be so much work.”

Ripken on his memories of facing 2015 Hall of Fame inductee Randy Johnson: “I’m thankful I was a right-handed hitter.  As tall as he was, it felt like he reached halfway to home plate before he delivered the ball.  His velocity was really high and there was a shortened time when you could see the ball.  I couldn’t imagine hanging in with his three-quarter delivery [as a left-handed hitter].  He was as tough as anyone, tough competitor, his velocity was maintained all game…Randy was an early two-pitch guy, he didn’t need to change up.  His slider was the speed of everybody else’s fastball.  I guess the best compliment you can pay is that I always liked to see the papers and see that he pitched the day before he was coming to town…It was not an easy day when you were facing Randy.”

Ripken on the value of winning a championship when weighing free agency decisions: “I think there’s a lot of considerations when you think about your career that don’t always revolve around money.  It’s where you want to play.  I played in my hometown and we went through some major rebuilding processes.  Even through those, I wanted to stay here and get through those and back to the World Series.  There are a lot of considerations, the money being what it is, you have choices in how much you make.  Sometimes people say, ‘How much money is enough?’ It depends on situation and what your needs are.  I applaud people thinking about their life instead of their job just in terms of money.”

Martinez on money as a deciding factor in free agency: “I had to really think of what I was doing and you have to think about the market.  The Players Association is really strong and works together like a wolf pack.  I became a free agent in two years that were a turning point for baseball in terms of the market.  I had to be careful how I chose because it would affect the market.  If I take a pay cut, from there on, everything else goes down.  Thank God I never was in a position where I had to take a big chunk of money off my salary to go somewhere.  The ring I got in 2004 is priceless to me.  It doesn’t matter what you give me, how much money, I would take my ring.”

Martinez on the development of Tampa Bay’s Chris Archer: “I’ve seen him develop the last few years and it seems like he’s growing in front of our eyes.  Each time you see him, something is improving.  I’m extremely proud that he’s following my footsteps and somehow I’ve influenced his talent.  I’m really proud he’s looking up to me as someone to emulate.  He has no ceiling for improvement.  But I don’t know how the Rays do it.  It seems like every year they have a special rookie that comes up and becomes that mega-star.  I hope they keep Archer for a long time because that kid is really special.  His strength, durability and mechanics are getting better.  I see a determination in him that I don’t see every day when it comes to pitching.”

Darling on Archer as a student of the game: “I think there’s thousands and thousands of kids that emulate Pedro and what he’s done.  The thing I love about Archer is that in this day and age where everyone has to act the same, the great thing that separated Pedro from a lot of pitchers was his passion for the game, and Archer has the same.  He’s a free spirit, has great passion, he stomps around the mound and is a great competitor.  Sometimes he wears his heart on his sleeve, but so be it, I love to see that instead of everyone playing everything close to the vest.  He’s a fun watch and baseball is an entertaining game and there’s none more entertaining than Mr. Archer.”

Ripken on Alex Rodriguez’s first half: “I think all of us could agree that what Alex has done in the first half has surprised us.  He’s been nothing short of amazing.  I kind of think that the All-Star team isn’t always based on someone’s first half performance.  A lot of times you’ll pick your All-Stars because they are All-Stars for their career.  Based on his first half numbers, he’s very deserving.”

Ripken on his impressions of the Baltimore Orioles: “They’ve been hit with the injury bug and somehow they find a player to contribute and get them to where they need to be.  You know how good Buck Showalter is as a manager at finding different talent and handling the bullpen.  Zach Britton and Darren O’Day as All-Stars, it’s really indicative of how great they’ve been at the back end of the bullpen.  Their numbers are extraordinary.  I think a lot of people were concerned that they lost Nelson Cruz and Nick Markakis in the off-season, where was the offense going to come from…They are in a particularly good position now having weathered some of the injuries with Matt Wieters and Jonathan Schoop back.  I think they’re positioned pretty well and I’m not surprised about four All-Stars, they’ve got a good ball club.”

Ripken on Chicago Cubs’ group of talented young infielders: “I kind of laugh because everyone was a shortstop at one point in their life…I think it’s a really good problem to have.  Kris Bryant has continued to amaze.  I haven’t gotten to watch him in person closely yet but I’d like to soon.  He’s a big guy, seems to be under control at all times.  His approach and the way that he takes it in stride are amazing to me.  They are all really, really talented players.  You have to find a mix and match to get them to all play together.  I think all teams would be lucky to have those choices.”

Ripken on his memories of playing with Martinez in the 1999 All-Star Game: “The whole All-Star Game in Boston, there’s a lot of really great memorable moments from that experience.  Very rarely do you get pumped up and psyched at the All-Star Game, especially if you’ve had a few under your belt, but the adrenaline was flowing really good.  It was fun to be on that side of it.  I’m glad I wasn’t trying to face Pedro.  It was a much more fun environment and there was this great excitability different than the other All-Star Games.  It was fun to be part of that.”

Visit the Turner Sports online press room for additional press materials; follow Turner Sports on Twitter at @TurnerSportsPR.

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Coverage Continues July 19 – Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Washington Nationals – at 1:30 p.m. ET

MLB on TBS Analyst Ron Darling Shares Perspective on Opening Months of 2015 MLB Season

Sunday MLB on TBS will return July 12 with the New York Yankees and Alex Rodriguez visiting the Boston Red Sox and David Ortiz at 1:30 p.m. ET.  Three-time Sports Emmy Award winning commentator Ernie Johnson will provide play-by-play for the game, seen locally in the Boston market, alongside veteran MLB on TBS analyst Ron Darling.

The following week, Sunday MLB on TBS will feature a match-up of current National League division leaders as the Los Angeles Dodgers and Yasiel Puig visit the Washington Nationals and Bryce Harper on July 19 at 1:30 p.m., with the telecast shown locally in Washington, D.C.  Hall of Famer Cal Ripken, Jr. will join Johnson and Darling in the broadcast booth.

TBS is entering its 8^th consecutive year of live MLB game coverage, with a lineup featuring regular season telecasts each Sunday afternoon and an extensive MLB Postseason schedule including the exclusive presentation of the National League Wild Card Game, both National League Division Series and the National League Championship Series this year.

MLB on TBS analyst Darling shares his reflections on the upcoming Yankees/Red Sox matchup, some early season surprises and a look ahead at a potential NLCS showdown:

Darling on the New York-Boston match-up:

“I’m looking forward to seeing Mookie Betts play in person.  His versatility and athleticism make him one of the more exciting young players in the league.  I also think that a healthy Mark Teixeira has given the New York offense a big boost with his power [18 home runs and a slugging percentage over .550], which has helped him against the shift.”

Darling on teams that have surprised him so far this season:

“Houston has been a great surprise this year, built on power, young talent and a rebuilt bullpen that has been very good.  The recent promotion of shortstop Carlos Correa has given them another young, dynamic, up the middle talent.  Seattle has been disappointing to me, especially after signing Nelson Cruz in the off-season to boost the offense.”

Darling on his favorites to meet in the NLCS:

“I expect to see St. Louis and Washington play for the chance to represent the NL in the World Series.  Both teams have weathered injuries so far and can rely on excellent pitching.  Their postseason experience will help come October.”

Upcoming Sunday MLB on TBS Schedule

July 12, 1:30 p.m. ET: New York Yankees @ Boston Red Sox

Ernie Johnson (play-by-play), Ron Darling (analyst)

July 19, 1:30 p.m. ET: Los Angeles Dodgers @ Washington Nationals

Johnson (play-by-play), Darling and Cal Ripken, Jr. (analysts)

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Notes from TBS Exclusive Coverage of the American League Championship Series – Game 4

Wednesday, October 15, 2014

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MLB Postseason Pre-Game on TBS presented by The All-New Chrysler 200
Casey Stern (host), Pedro Martinez and Gary Sheffield (analysts)

	Martinez on the Royals team play: “Everyone has the same focused look and determination to win a ball game. The whole team deserves a lot of credit for chipping in. They are doing everything they have to do and not missing a beat. They are really dangerous.”
	Sheffield on the Orioles not playing Delmon Young much in the ALCS: “Where have you been Delmon? He should’ve been playing in this series because he is clutch in the playoffs. He was brought in for these moments and he came through for his team [in the LDS]. To have him on the bench and not using him is baffling to me because they’ve been struggling to score runs.”

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Kansas City Royals (2) @ Baltimore Orioles (1) – The Royals sweep the series 4-0 and advance to the World Series
Ernie Johnson (play-by-play), Ron Darling and Cal Ripken (analysts) with Matt Winer (reporter)

Darling on the Kansas City bullpen: “They have the best bullpen going. It might be the best weapon in the postseason.” Ripken on the importance of the Royals scoring early: “Early in the game you don’t want to play for one run. You want to play for a big inning but the way Kansas City has been pitching, they want to shorten the game, get the lead and apply the pressure.” Ripken on Lorenzo Cain’s decision to bunt that resulted in Kansas City scoring: “It’s so indicative of the attitude that this Royals team has…they know how they play and how they want to manufacture runs. They are all willing [to sacrifice].” Ripken on the Royals’ defense: “We always talk about the spectacular plays that make the highlight reel but I’ve been impressed with [Omar] Infante’s steady play at second [base]. [Alcides]Escobar has made some really nice plays and [Eric] Hosmer handles every play with ease.” Ripken on the Royals: “We knew they were good and they’ve been a fun team to watch. They couldn’t play any better than they’ve played.”

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The Postseason Show presented by Mobil 1

Stern, Martinez, Sheffield

Martinez on Lorenzo Cain being named ALCS MVP: “It couldn’t happen to a better person. He’s a humble kid who’s had to work his way through. He did everything the Royals asked him to do.” Sheffield on the Royals: “You have to appreciate the baseball we just saw. We saw a little bit of everything from these guys. From the first game of this series until the end, they kept their focus the whole time and didn’t let up.” Martinez on the Royals bullpen trio of Wade Davis, Kelvin Herrera and Greg Holland: “I have never seen a one-two-three punch better than this one…I’ll take this group over any other group.” Martinez on the Royals: “The momentum that they are carrying over to the next series is something special.”

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Notes from TBS Exclusive Coverage of the American League Championship Series – Game 3

Tuesday, October 14, 2014

TBS’ exclusive presentation of the ALCS will continue today, Wednesday, Oct. 15, at 3:30 p.m. ET with the MLB Postseason Pre-Game on TBS presented by The All-New Chrysler 200, followed by the Baltimore Orioles @ Kansas City Royals (Game 4) at 4 p.m. The night will conclude with The Postseason Show presented by Mobil 1.

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MLB Postseason Pre-Game on TBS presented by The All-New Chrysler 200
Casey Stern (host), Pedro Martinez and Gary Sheffield (analysts)

Martinez on Royals pitcher Jeremy Guthrie, his long layoff between starts and other factors: “I would take advantage of the simulated game, but that’s not the most important thing. I think the chilly wind and the dryness on the field today is going to play a big role.” Sheffield on outfielder Nori Aoki at the number two spot in the lineup: “I love this player. He’s seen 36 pitches in this series. And what that does, it allows the next hitter to see those same pitches and go up there with a better game plan.”

Sheffield on first baseman Steve Pearce’s struggles: “This guy has to be proud of what he did during the season.  He’s one of the reasons why they’re here. But to me, it seems like this situation is getting a little too big for this kid. This kid is starting to press a little bit, instead of doing the things you did to get you here.” Sheffield on outfielder Adam Jones and needing to demonstrate patience: “He’s not patient…as middle of the order guys, the last thing we want to do is be patient. We want to be the heroes, we want to hit the ball out of the park and be the big guy on campus, but the opposite applies in the playoffs. You have to go in and tell yourself, I have to set the stage, I’m a third place hitter for a reason.”

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Kansas City Royals (2) @ Baltimore Orioles (1) – The Royals lead the series 3-0
Ernie Johnson (play-by-play), Ron Darling and Cal Ripken (analysts) with Matt Winer (reporter)

Darling on Mike Moustakas’ diving catch in foul territory in the sixth inning: “On the 11th anniversary of the Steve Bartman game, the Royals fans let [Mike] Moustakas catch the baseball.” Ripken on how to approach Royals reliever Kelvin Herrera: “You’ve got to get the bat started. You know you’re going to get fastballs, you’re going to get a lot of them. The approach should be, give yourself three chances. I wouldn’t go taking [pitches].” Ripken on the Royals’ approach to winning: “They truly find a way to win. That’s a symptom of all the good teams that are winning and are hot like they are. The diversity of their offense, the threat of steal, the first to third, the ground ball, they do everything they can to scratch away a win. And I haven’t seen anything like it.”

Darling on pitcher Kevin Gausman: “At some point he’s going to be one of their most valuable starting pitchers. I know he’s in the pen now, but at some point, he’s a guy that’s going to give you 200 innings, win you 15 games, that’s how much talent he has.” Darling on Gausman’s relief performance: “A heroic effort. He came in, though, he got ahead with that one fastball against Billy Butler and then made too good of a pitch that cost him a sac fly.” Darling on outfielder Nelson Cruz’s power to all fields: “What makes him so valuable, and tough to pitch to…is that he can take you deep to right field, coast to coast.”

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The Postseason Show presented by Mobil 1

Stern, Martinez, Sheffield

Martinez on the focus of the Kansas City team: “The whole Kansas City team, you can look at them in the eyes and they are all focused, and that impressed me from this young team.” Martinez on the performance by starting pitcher Jeremy Guthrie: “He surprised me and surprised I think everybody because he not only competed in the key situations, when he was rattled by the Orioles, he came back and made quality pitches…unexpected for a guy that has spent 19 days without pitching in a real game.” Martinez on Kansas City’s superior defense throughout the playoffs: “I’ve seen many things in the game, but a defense like I’ve seen in this postseason, believe me, I’ve never seen in my 18 years in the big leagues, in the postseason specifically. It’s impossible. I’ve never seen something like it.”

Sheffield on first baseman Steve Pearce getting back on track at the plate: “I liked his approach today. He took a couple pitches, he seemed relaxed today, he got the fat part of the bat on the ball and good things happen when you do that. He had some quality at-bats but unfortunately the defense was there for the Royals again.” Sheffield on who needs to rally the Baltimore team: “That guy is Adam Jones. He needs to get in front of the team and step up and tell these guys, ‘Hey, we still have a game to play. We just have to focus on one game at a time. Our backs are against the wall right now, but we just have to play Orioles baseball, and if we can get back to that, we can turn this series around.’”

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