In a recent survey conducted by Awful Announcing, baseball fans graded the local radio broadcasters for all 30 Major League Baseball (MLB) teams, resulting in a comprehensive ranking for the 2026 season. This year, the San Diego Padres emerged as the top radio broadcast team, a title they also claimed in the previous year. This ranking reflects the fans' appreciation for the engaging and informative nature of the Padres' broadcasts, led by play-by-play announcer Jesse Agler and former major leaguer Tony Gwynn Jr.
The survey gathered over 10,000 individual grades, allowing fans to assign letter grades from A to F to their respective teams' radio broadcasts. The results not only highlight the best teams but also draw attention to some of the more criticized broadcasts, illustrating the diverse opinions among fans regarding their local radio experiences.
One significant aspect of this year's rankings is the farewell to several iconic broadcasters. Notably, Howie Rose of the New York Mets and Rick Rizzs of the Seattle Mariners are in their final seasons, prompting fans to reflect on their contributions to the sport. As these veteran voices prepare to retire, their replacements will have big shoes to fill, making next year's rankings particularly intriguing.
The Padres' radio team received high praise for their chemistry and professionalism, with Agler being described as one of the smartest play-by-play announcers in the game. His signature home run call, “GONNA GOOO!” has become a fan favorite, adding to the excitement of the broadcasts. The team's strong performance in the rankings is a testament to their consistent quality and the engaging nature of their commentary.
In contrast, the Colorado Rockies found themselves at the bottom of the list, ranked 30th. Their broadcast team faced criticism for a perceived lack of engagement and excitement. Veteran announcer Jack Corrigan was noted for his classic home run call but described as having a dull overall style. The addition of newcomer Zach Goodman received mixed reviews, with some fans expressing disappointment in his play-by-play skills.
Other teams that struggled in the rankings included the Miami Marlins and the Los Angeles Angels, both of whom received grades that reflected their challenges in delivering compelling broadcasts. The Marlins' booth was criticized for being overcrowded, leading to off-topic discussions that detracted from the game. Meanwhile, the Angels faced backlash for their decision to not send radio announcers on road trips, resulting in a disconnect between the broadcast and the live action.
As the rankings progress, teams like the Chicago Cubs and the San Francisco Giants continue to receive accolades for their strong broadcasts. The Cubs' Pat Hughes remains a beloved figure, while the Giants' Jon Miller is celebrated for his storytelling ability and engaging style. Both teams exemplify the qualities that fans cherish in their local broadcasts, ensuring they remain competitive in the rankings.
The 2026 MLB local radio broadcaster rankings not only provide insight into the quality of broadcasts across the league but also reflect the evolving landscape of baseball commentary. As fans continue to engage with their teams through radio broadcasts, the importance of quality and connection remains paramount. With the departure of legendary voices and the rise of new talent, the future of MLB radio broadcasting is set to be an exciting journey.
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