Former ESPN broadcaster still calling games for network after being laid off

In a move that surprised many viewers, longtime ESPN broadcaster Karl Ravech was back on the microphone for Thursday night's Braves vs. Nationals game, just one week after being laid off by the network.

A Final Stretch for a Veteran Voice

According to The Athletic’s Andrew Marchand, who reported the development on X, Ravech was extended an offer by ESPN to finish out a portion of the summer baseball schedule. Despite his departure from the company, Ravech accepted the opportunity to continue his play-by-play duties over the coming weeks.

"Karl Ravech is calling the Braves-Nationals for ESPN tonight. He has still been laid off. Since it is in-season, Ravech was given the option to work some more summer dates and has chosen to do that, according to a source," Marchand wrote. Fans can expect to hear his voice again for a Yankee game in August and throughout the upcoming Little League World Series.

A Storied Career

Ravech’s presence on Thursday highlighted a tenure that spanned more than 30 years after he first joined ESPN in 1993. Throughout his career, he became a pillar of the network's sports coverage, anchoring SportsCenter and Baseball Tonight while providing play-by-play for everything from college basketball to the College World Series.

Mixed Reactions from the Fanbase

The broadcaster's decision to return to the booth following his layoff drew significant attention on social media. One post on X praised his professionalism, stating, "True class act. Head held high, doing what he loves." Others were more skeptical, with one user adding, "He’s a better man than I am. I would’ve told them I’m working it and quit right before first pitch."

Ravech was not the only familiar face impacted by the network's recent staffing changes; NFL analysts Ryan Clark, Cam Newton, and Bart Scott were also laid off by ESPN last week.