Battaglia out on NBC for Breeders Cup
 

http://www.drf.com/news/battaglia-wo...-broadcast-nbc


Never thought much of his ability as a racing analyst but I think replacing him with Eddie Olczyk does not add any value in terms of educating the race player or fan. I know Olczyk is a avid racing fan, mentioning it during pre-triple crown hockey telecasts it seems to me his spot is more entertainment than analyst in nature.

Olczyk knows his racing and is a huge bettor.

Something I suspect nice guy Battaglia is not.

I like the move though I'll miss the NBC coverage. He'll hold his own as a racing analyst for sure.

Yes, Mike Battaglia knows racing.

I'm not a fan of his racecalls, but he knows racing.

Lets say your statements are accurate, not that I would say they are, but there is no way in the world Olcxzyk is more qualified to analyze and handicap races on what is arguably the most important handicapping event in terms of national spotlight than about a 100 people right off the top of my head.

It just underscores what higher ups who market this sport think of the people who bet this sport, or better yet are new to betting this sport.

The people who 'bet' the sport, like me, won't and don't need to listen to NBC's coverage on what drink is hot, what owner had a dream about their horse, etc. etc.

However the people new to betting the sport and those who tune in a few times a year will undoubtedly enjoy Eddie O far more than Battaglia. And I really think you're underestimating Olczyk's racing knowledge and the fact he'll bring the viewpoint of both an owner and successful handicapper, a viewpoint Mike B. doesn't have.

agree with this. Sometimes you need new blood. At least John Madden
new when it was time, Summerall hung around too long imo.
Durkin could have kept going, but someone else needs to step it up

So that is what people do as the racing analyst? They tell you what drink to buy? You work for NBC or NTRA?

I dont get that watching say Fox's broadcast this year, which have been very well done, very informative, and is the better direction the sport should follow.

I am clearly in the minority on this, which in this sport makes me even more confident I am right.

Durkin is the Sinatra of race callers.

Battaglia is more like a Barry Manilow or Neil Diamond. ;)

I don't work for either but last year I witnessed, in person, NBC and their reporter (not Battaglia) as it was a woman in a big hat, going over the drink options available with Grey Goose, who of course was a sponsor.

All one needs to do is look at the bottom of the program for what Battaglia will predict, 90% of the time. Won't it at least be refreshing for an analyst to go past the four favorites?

If NBC was serious about a putting forth a 'quality' program focused on 'the more than casual fan', they'd hire Byk as Producer and start from scratch.

Battaglia isn't a huge bettor?

That's news to me.

Never been a fan of his and I avoid listening to the "Experts" which I would not say he is anytime I am handicapping a race. I have changed some picks and wagers in the past based on the "knowledge" and most every time it's cost me.

or the guy who sang feelings

I like mike B but I think Eddie O is "fresh" more of real guy
Jill Byrne is good she lives young imo

I think in all sports a relevant broadcaster can enhance the experience.
Just seems nowadays there in cookie cutter mode:eek:

There's nothing wrong with a little cross-promotion and Eddie O knows what he's talking about. Don't see how this can be anything but positive.

I agree. Eddie O was a regular at the local Piitsburgh OTB when he was a broadcaster for the Penguins(before he coached them). Real nice guy who would hang out and wager in the main bar and talk racing with anyone who was interested in discussing the race. Still comes on local radio to discuss triple crown and breeders cup etc.... Has given out quite a few winners in this manner while giving fans of other sports the incentive to push a few bucks through the windows.

Johnny weir was already booked

http://www.paulickreport.com/news/br...-cup-telecast/

Please tell me that isn't really Barry Irwin in the comments section.

The issue isnt that they are making a change away from Mike Battaglia, who I think most would agree is very average in what exactly he provides, but that the way they are going to provide color commentary on the race analysis is to hire a hockey guy who happens to own and bet on horses.

Essentially I am sure with the brass at NBC there is not much difference in the two expertise.

At least they didn't replace him with Ronan Farrow or the other hipster who is a Rachel Maddow look-a-like.

I am sure it was considered, we are talking about NBC and reaching their "core" audience. :D

So, there is a god after all.

IC, you and I in trouble!