Two of the most prominent baseball stars of the 1990s have both successfully transitioned into careers in media since retiring from the sport. They've also recently both made it harder on themselves to perform at their jobs because of their vaccine stances.
Hall of Fame pitcher John Smoltz "is not currently an MLB Network analyst," a spokesperson told Andrew Marchand of The New York Post. While the network is interested in bringing the eight-time All-Star back, Marchand hears that "Smoltz has no plans on returning to MLB Network."
The 1996 National League Cy Young Award winner isn't vaccinated against COVID-19, which led to the network requiring him to make video appearances beginning last September. Smoltz and Al Leiter didn't meet MLB Network's vaccine mandate to appear in their studios in Secaucus, New Jersey because they aren't vaccinated. Smoltz's contract since expired, per Marchand. It appears, though, that the network was willing to continue to accommodate him and he's elected not to continue working there.
Meanwhile, Marchand says that five-time World Series Champion Paul O'Neill is currently broadcasting from his house, rather than appearing at Yankee Stadium and on the road for broadcasts on The YES Network. He reports that O'Neill is unvaccinated.
What's noteworthy here is that you are allowed to broadcast MLB games without being vaccinated, which Smoltz is proof of. He announced the World Series last year without being vaccinated, and presumably will again in 2022.
But you -- at least by rule -- would have to wear a facemask everywhere other than in the broadcast booth. And as is the case with all media, you aren't eligible to go onto the field before the game, into the clubhouse after the game or into the manager's office if you aren't up to date with your vaccines. If your hope is to be the best broadcaster possible, not being able to have face-to-face contact with players and coaches would not be ideal.
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