Broadcaster Doc Emrick Joined SportsNet Pittsburgh Team
The legendary hockey voice will contribute to Pittsburgh Pirates coverage.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Baseball
Legendary broadcaster Doc Emrick has announced he will join the SportsNet Pittsburgh broadcast team. This move follows his attendance at a recent Pittsburgh Pirates game against the Tigers at Comerica Park.
Why it matters
Emrick brings over four decades of professional broadcasting experience to the network, transitioning from his storied career calling hockey games. His addition marks a significant new chapter for the Pittsburgh-based sports outlet.
Emrick called the Stanley Cup Finals 22 times over his 47-year broadcasting career. He witnessed three World Series championships and previously taught speech and broadcasting at Geneva College.
The players
Doc Emrick
He is a legendary sports broadcaster known for his long-tenured career as the voice of the NHL.
SportsNet Pittsburgh
It is the regional sports network that carries Pittsburgh Pirates and Penguins broadcasts.
Greg Brown
He is a veteran play-by-play broadcaster and long-time member of the Pittsburgh Pirates broadcast team.
John Wehner
He is a former Major League Baseball player who serves as a color commentator for the Pittsburgh Pirates.
The details
Emrick, who retired from hockey broadcasting in October 2020, will work alongside Greg Brown and John Wehner on the network. He recently returned to baseball at Comerica Park, marking five years since he last attended a live game.
Timeline
August 9, 1959: Emrick attended his first live Pirates game at Wrigley Field.
2012: Emrick participated in a Pirates fantasy camp.
October 2020: Emrick retired from hockey broadcasting.
September 25, 2026: Emrick attended the Pirates-Tigers game.
Season Trajectory
This addition signals a major shift in the broadcast booth for the Pittsburgh Pirates as the organization looks toward the next season. It follows the 2020 retirement of Doc Emrick, who is now returning to a regular role in professional sports media.
Viewers can expect a change in the broadcast booth rotation alongside established commentators Greg Brown and John Wehner. The hiring provides a fresh perspective for the upcoming season, though specific game assignments remain to be finalized.
The takeaway
Emrick transitions from his iconic hockey legacy to a new role covering the diamond for local fans. His return to the booth highlights the enduring influence of seasoned broadcasters in regional sports media.
Further reading
For more on local team coverage, visit Pittsburgh Baseball.
