I've said some nice things already about FSN's coverage of the Kansas City Royals broadcasts this year. I think everything I've mentioned is related to moves FSN made after taking over for the now-defunct RSTN. Coincidence? I think not.
I don't have a vendetta against Ryan Lefevbre or anyone else who has been part of the Royals announcing crew for years. I even took his side in the whole Milton Bradley mess. Generally, though, I am a radio guy and am prejudiced against people who don't take an active and enthusiastic interest in the ballgame — two qualities that describe a lot of TV announcers, including our own. The Orioles' TV guy, Gary Thorne, may not be the guy you go to for Red Sox updates, but he brings a refreshing hockey sensibility to the broadcast (has Lefevbre ever called a home run with as much gusto as Thorne called Alex Gordon's moonshot last night?).
Fortunately, there is an exception to the rule and his name is Frank White. Royals Hall of Famer and one of those guys you just assumed would be big-league managing someday, White stepped into the announcer's booth this season, and he's been great. That same disadvantage of TV actually works to White's favor: As a new guy, he's not expected to do too much, which would also be the perfect description of Fox's ideal TV announcer.
Even in his limited role in the booth (20 games this season), White has brought an enthusiasm that is sorely lacking in the Royals telecasts. Like every converted ballplayer, he tends to hold his fire, but most former managers eventually find their voice on the air, and I expect White to be no different.
The real test will be if White stays informed on the entire Royals organization, down to Pioneer League ball, because the number one rap against players-turned-announcers is they're out of touch. Paul Splittorff, who provides color on all the other games, has indicated he'd like to reduce his role after this year. So I think he sees more Frank in the future, too. Hope so.
The reason I post about this now is a new half-hour special this weekend. See below. Also, if you didn't notice, this morning FSN finally replaced its St. Louis listings in the Kansas City area this morning on systems that were still getting them (including mine).
FSN KANSAS CITY PRESENTS IN MY OWN WORDS: FRANK WHITE 30-Minute Special Premieres Friday Following the Royals Postgame Show
In My Own Words: Frank White on FSN Kansas City -- Clip
Kansas City Royals great Frank White shares his story of growing up and winning a World Series in Kansas City in In My Own Words: Frank White, a 30-minute special premiering Friday, July 4 on FSN Kansas City.
FSN Kansas City’s Joel Goldberg conducts the long-form interview, in which White talks about growing up in Kansas City, participating in the Royals Academy, beating the Yankees in the ALCS but losing to the Phillies in the World Series in 1980, the 1985 World Series, the current state of the Royals and more.
White, a Royals Hall of Famer, played 18 seasons in the Major Leagues and currently serves as part of FSN Kansas City’s broadcast team for Royals baseball.
Air dates for In My Own Words: Frank White
Friday, July 4 following the Royals Live postgame show (approximately 7:15 p.m.)
Tuesday, July 8 at 10:30 p.m.
Thursday, July 10 at 6 p.m.
Sunday, July 13 at 4:30 p.m.
Monday, July 14 at 6:30 p.m.
Thursday, July 24 at 6 p.m.
Monday, July 28 at 8 p.m.
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