Former Miami Marlins president David Samson has acknowledged underestimating the enduring significance of radio broadcasting to Major League Baseball, according to a Yahoo Sports report by Jason Barrett published on October 30, 2026.
The piece examines how radio remains a vital connection between baseball teams and their communities despite the proliferation of digital streaming and television coverage. Samson, who served as the Marlins' president from 2002 to 2017, previously questioned radio's long-term viability in the modern media landscape.
Barrett's analysis highlights radio's unique ability to provide accessible, local coverage that builds generational fan loyalty — particularly during day games, in-car listening, and in markets where television blackouts persist. The article notes that MLB's radio rights continue to command substantial value, with many clubs maintaining robust local broadcast networks alongside national partnerships.
