Fans were not happy with John Smoltz’s analysis during Game 4, despite the Texas Rangers leading 10-0.
Fans criticize John Smoltz’s Game 4 analysis, yet he had tough task https://t.co/yydIsTItBB pic.twitter.com/vILctO0svJ
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) November 1, 2023
While the score was clearly in favor of the Rangers, Smoltz and play-by-play man Joe Davis still had six more innings to fill with commentary.
It was a challenging task, considering the lack of drama in the series due to Texas’ dominant performance.
To make matters more difficult, the Rangers’ impressive batting had taken away much of the suspense from the game.
This meant that Smoltz had to find positive aspects about the Arizona Diamondbacks’ situation or performance to keep the broadcasting engaging.
He acknowledged the importance of the Diamondbacks getting good at-bats to potentially force the Rangers to switch pitchers.
However, many fans felt that Smoltz went too far in talking up the Diamondbacks in the final innings of the game.
True. He is the worst at attempting to inject drama that isn’t there
— Thaddeus D. Matula (@thadfilms) November 1, 2023
Rangers are leading 10-0, but you'd have no idea if the score wasn't on the screen if you only listened to John Smoltz.
— B Randon (@onestrikeaway) November 1, 2023
The Texas Rangers have sent Diamondbacks fans streaming for the exits in the 8th, as they close in on a 3-1 series lead pic.twitter.com/WbIrdVhCqu
— Mike Leslie (@MikeLeslieWFAA) November 1, 2023
This criticism was fueled by his previous praise of the D-backs earlier in the series.
In fact, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram published an article titled “Texas Rangers fans complain about Fox broadcaster: ‘John Smoltz is insufferable.'” It seems that Smoltz’s commentary was not resonating well with the Rangers’ fan base.
While it is understandable that Smoltz and Davis had to continue providing analysis throughout the game, even with a significant lead for the Rangers, it is important for broadcasters to strike a balance between acknowledging the performance of both teams and keeping the audience engaged.
Fans want to hear insightful and unbiased commentary that enhances their viewing experience.
