Phillies announcer Ben Davis is set for an expanded role this season, as part of several changes for fans watching on NBC Sports Philadelphia.
The changes will be introduced on opening day when the Phillies host the Texas Rangers.
Davis to Provide Dugout Insight
Ben Davis, who has been part of the Phillies’ broadcast team since 2015, will be in the dugout more often. He spent time in the dugout during a couple of games last season and during spring training. Alexandra Matcham, the vice president of content for NBC Sports Philadelphia, believes Davis being at field level will give viewers greater insight, particularly with the introduction of the Automated Ball-Strike Challenge System.
Matcham said having Davis, as a former catcher, at field level will give viewers greater insight about what they’re seeing with the replay system.
Davis’s new role will also help fill the void created by the departure of Taryn Hatcher, whose contract was not renewed after several seasons as an in-stadium reporter for Phillies broadcasts.
Booth Rotation and Returning Favourites
Davis will still call games in the booth as part of a rotation. The rotation includes former Phillies general manager Rubén Amaro Jr. and John Kruk, who will be in the booth for opening day. Tom McCarthy is also returning for his 20th season as the TV voice of the Phillies.
Cole Hamels, the 2008 World Series MVP, is slated to call six to eight Sunday games. Hamels will fill part of the void left by Mike Schmidt, who decided not to return after 12 seasons as part of the broadcast crew.
Schmidt said he will still be visiting Citizens Bank Park on a regular basis in 2026, but will focus on spending time with sponsors and not in the broadcast booth.
In-Stadium Experience and Reporting Team
Matcham, who has experience with sideline reports at NFL Media, wants to bring the ballpark atmosphere to viewers, since injuries or issues don’t often arise during games. Digital video producer Spencer McKercher will be interacting more with fans at Citizens Bank Park.
NBC Sports Philadelphia is bringing back veteran Phillies reporter Jim Salisbury and pairing him with new hire Cole Weintraub, who will handle breaking news.
Studio Coverage Unchanged
Michael Barkann is returning for his 29th season as the host of Phillies pre- and postgame coverage. He’ll be joined most nights by Ricky Bottalico, along with Davis and Amaro.
New Camera Angles
Matcham said they’re adding a camera in the dirt of the infield (once it’s approved by the league) and expanding the use of a wire camera that runs along the third base line.
Matcham said the wire camera gives a unique, almost 360-degree view of what’s happening on the field.
The Phillies opening day game against the Texas Rangers will be broadcast on NBC10 and NBC Sports Philadelphia.