Barry Larkin to join ESPN

[missionhockey21]

Shame he is leaving MLB Network, but it is a step-up for him. Did they ever sort out who is doing Sunday night game announcing?

Former Reds shortstop Barry Larkin is leaving the MLB network according to a report by USA Today writer Bob Nightengale.

The Reds Hall of Famer will reportedly take a job with ESPN.

It's unclear exactly what role Larkin will take on at ESPN, but he has experience both in the announcing booth and in studio.

ESPN broadcasts several national games per week during the season along with its flagship nightly highlights and analysis show Baseball Tonight.

Larkin took a role with MLB Network shortly before it launched on Jan. 1, 2009. Since his retirement in 2004, Larkin has also served as the bench coach for Team USA at the 2009 World Baseball Classic and as an adviser in the Washington Nationals' front office.

Larkin reportedly is headed to ESPN | Cincinnati.com | cincinnati.com

[love_that_reefer]

I wouldn't say this is a step up for him. ESPN's baseball coverage is pretty weak and stale since the MLB Network came around. As far as the Sunday Night crew, its Orel, Bobby V and Dan Schulman. I'm not impressed.

[missionhockey21]

In terms of coverage MLB Network is way better, and the obvious authority. In terms of national exposure and helping to make his name, for broadcasting, more known, ESPN is the definite improvement. Maybe he is selling his soul a bit, but he is taking the generic big budget versus the awesome indie role approach.