The Chicago White Sox have made an exciting announcement, welcoming John Schriffen as their new television play-by-play announcer. Schriffen, known for his work at ESPN, brings a fresh perspective to the booth and replaces the beloved Jason Benetti, who moved on to the Detroit Tigers. With his extensive experience and passion for the game, Schriffen is ready to embark on this new chapter with the White Sox.
Embracing the White Sox Tradition
Schriffen expressed his excitement about joining the White Sox organization, highlighting the team’s rich history and the passionate leadership of chairman Jerry Reinsdorf. During a meeting in Arizona, Schriffen was captivated by Reinsdorf’s deep-rooted passion for the team and the sport itself. This connection fueled Schriffen’s desire to be a part of the White Sox family, making this opportunity the perfect fit for him.
Broadcaster with a Versatile Background
Prior to joining the White Sox, Schriffen worked at ESPN as a broadcaster since 2020. He covered a range of sports, including Saturday and Sunday games for ESPN radio’s MLB broadcasts since 2022. Schriffen’s versatility extended beyond baseball, as he also called NCAA basketball, football, baseball, and softball games, as well as NBA G League and summer league matches. His expertise in various sports makes him a well-rounded announcer, bringing a unique perspective to each game he covers.
A Commitment to Chicago
Schriffen is fully committed to the White Sox and their dedicated fan base. Although he plans to call the majority of the team’s games, he expressed his desire to remain involved with ESPN during the offseason. His dedication to both the White Sox and ESPN reflects his passion for sports broadcasting, ensuring fans will continue to hear his voice throughout the year.
As a biracial individual, Schriffen joins the elite ranks of Black TV play-by-play announcers, alongside Seattle’s Dave Sims. This milestone represents the increasing diversity within the world of sports broadcasting, as Schriffen continues to break barriers with his talent and passion. He carries on a family legacy, as his grandfather, Alphonso Deal, served as the president of the NAACP’s Philadelphia chapter. Schriffen’s background not only contributes to his unique perspective but also serves as an inspiration to aspiring broadcasters from diverse backgrounds.
With the White Sox organization entering an exciting phase, led by a talented roster of young stars, Schriffen is eager to delve into the world of baseball in Chicago. Learning about the city and immersing himself in the White Sox culture are at the top of his list as he embarks on this new journey. His enthusiasm for the game and genuine curiosity about the team and its community make him an excellent addition to the White Sox family.
The White Sox have made a bold move in appointing John Schriffen as their new television play-by-play announcer. With his extensive background in sports broadcasting and his commitment to the team and its fans, Schriffen is poised to bring a fresh perspective and captivating energy to the White Sox broadcasts. As the team’s voice, he will play a crucial role in narrating the games and connecting with the viewers, ushering in a new era of White Sox baseball on television.
Leave a Reply