In a recent game against the Tampa Bay Rays, Orioles play-by-play broadcaster Kevin Brown made a comment about Baltimore’s lack of success at Tropicana Field in previous years. This comment, which compared the Orioles’ recent victories at the field to their struggles over the past three years, accompanied a graphic highlighting their poor performance. However, this remark did not go over well with Orioles ownership, leading to Brown’s removal from MASN broadcasts.
Ownership Takes Issue with the Commentary
According to reports from Awful Announcing and The Athletic, Orioles ownership was not pleased with Kevin Brown’s comment. While the team denies that he was suspended, a senior official commented, “we don’t comment on personal matters” and expressed their eagerness to hear Brown’s voice soon. Despite the team’s statement, the fact remains that Brown has not appeared on a MASN television broadcast since making the remark.
Backlash from MLB Broadcasters
News of Kevin Brown’s removal from Orioles broadcasts quickly spread throughout the MLB community and drew criticism from fellow broadcasters. Many expressed their disapproval of the decision to silence Brown for his comment, arguing that freedom of speech should be upheld in the broadcasting profession.
Kevin Brown has been working for the Orioles as a TV and radio commentator since 2019, bringing his expertise and enthusiasm to the team’s broadcasts. In addition to his role with the Orioles, Brown also serves as a play-by-play commentator for various college sports on ESPN platforms. His versatility and passion for the game have made him a respected figure in the broadcasting industry.
The Orioles’ Turnaround Season
Under the ownership of Peter Angelos, the Orioles experienced a period of significant struggle from 2018 to 2021. However, the team has shown remarkable improvement this season and currently sits in first place in the American League East. The success of the Orioles’ 2023 campaign has brought renewed excitement and optimism to the franchise and its fanbase.
An Examination of Broadcasters’ Freedom of Speech
The suspension of Kevin Brown raises important questions about the boundaries of freedom of speech in the broadcasting industry. While it is crucial for broadcasters to exercise discretion and professionalism in their commentary, stifling their ability to express opinions or make certain observations can hinder the authenticity and spontaneity of their work. Balancing the need for accountability with the value of open discussion is a complex task that broadcasters, teams, and networks must navigate.
Looking Ahead
As the situation surrounding Kevin Brown’s removal from Orioles broadcasts continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the team, the broadcasting industry, and fans will respond. The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by broadcasters in an increasingly scrutinized and polarized media landscape. It underscores the importance of fostering an environment that allows for responsible and respectful dialogue while acknowledging the power of individual voices in shaping the narrative of the game. Ultimately, the outcome of this controversy will have lasting implications for the future of broadcasting and its relationship with freedom of speech.
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