Albert and Dolan
Generally, I don't look for news about the world at IMDB.com. In fact, I am a little confused as to why this story is on the site.
But one passage in particular caught my attention. The Knicks are ditching Marv Albert as play-by-play voice, and the reasoning should pique the interest of certain cynical Indians--yes, Indians--fans.
following Albert's refusal to agree to take a more positive stance towards the team, published reports said today (Thursday). The New York Times quoted two industry executives as saying that Albert particularly angered Cablevision President James Dolan, whose company owns Madison Square Garden and the Knicks. "Jim felt all broadcasters had to be cheerleaders and sell tickets," one of the executives told the Times. Albert himself told the newspaper that his dealings with Dolan sometimes made him feel as if he were working for the "theater of the absurd" instead of the MSG Network.
Now, why should this interest Indians fans?
Well, you may have noticed how positive Indians announcers have been this season. And who owns the tribe? Larry Dolan, who if I'm not mistaken is James' brother.
The only Indians' announcer--television or radio, who has been willing to take the team to task is part-time tribe coach Rick Manning, who is, not by coincidence, the best announcer the Indians have.
I used to love radio voice Tom Hamilton, until Herb Score retired and Tom started to become a little overbearing. He praises the Indians and management and players, yet is not shy when voicing displeasure towards other team's cities and players.
He made a remark in April about former Indian Juan Gonzalez that was fairly uncalled for.
Mike Hegan is pretty good, and I really believe he's the best of the radio trio. He has a good delivery, and despite being a former player, does not ever use the phrase, "back when I played ..."
John Sanders is not my favorite announcer in the world, and Matt Underwood--well if you can't say something nice about someone ...
Anyway, just my take.