Yes, it is a tough business.
Andy Masur recently got a tough reminder. A couple of weeks ago, the San Diego Padres informed him that they “were moving in another direction,” and that he wouldn’t be part of their broadcast plans for 2014. He spent seven years with the team.
“The timing of this move is not ideal obviously since spring training is starting next week,” Masur wrote in an email.
Masur, a Chicago native, asked if I could help him get the word out that he is available and ready to work somewhere else.
He writes: “I’m exploring all options, and I’m trying to get the word out to as many people as possible about my situation to cast a very large net over the industry in hopes it will bring my next great opportunity. I’d love to stay in baseball, but I may have to forgo that this season and try again next.”
On his site, Masur wrote a farewell note to Padres fans. He writes:
I’m sure you’ve heard by now either via social media or somewhere else, that I am no longer with the San Diego Padres organization. I was not offered a new contract after mine expired at the end of the 2013 season. I was notified a couple of weeks ago, that there had been a “restructuring” of the broadcasting department and that I would not be a part of things moving forward. It was very disappointing to hear this news, as I did not want to leave the Padres organization. Today, I’m thinking back to all the good memories from my time with the team, to dwell on the “other” seems counterproductive.
It’s been an emotional time for me, what with the passing of dear friend Jerry Coleman and now with the thought of saying so long to so many great people, it’s been rough. I welcome a challenge, it’s something I’ve always done, something my parents taught me. I will be fine. Trust me.
Masur is a solid announcer and a class guy. His phone will be ringing.
That’s too bad. And I’m sure he’s entirely the reason folks don’t tune in. It’s never the product on the field, right? Here’s hoping Andy can find something.
Several times, I have heard my former colleagues in front offices talk about an announcer as being “not loyal” or “self-centered”. By the end of November, a front office knows what they want to do with their booth. Simple courtesy would mean a team should tell their announcer then. It is because of actions like this that I just can’t blame announcer for looking out for themselves. Something very similar happened recently to post-game radio hosts for the Tampa Bay Rays and the Oakland A’s.
Some Cub fans have been clamoring for him to return to WGN Radio to replace Judd Sirott. I think Sirott is decent, but Maser would be an upgrade. If radio rights weren’t in flux, he might have a better shot in Chicago.