Legendary Broadcaster Bob Costas Returns to NBC Sports to Anchor Sunday Night Baseball Coverage
Veteran sportscaster Bob Costas is officially returning to NBC Sports following a six-year absence, the network announced the move on Thursday to secure an authoritative voice for its new Major League Baseball package. Costas will serve as the studio host for Sunday Night Baseball and contribute to NBA coverage starting in March 2026.
Decades of Broadcasting Excellence Set Stage for Homecoming
Costas previously spent four decades as the face of the network, he hosted 12 Olympic Games and seven Super Bowls during that tenure, this cemented his status as one of the most decorated figures in sports media history. His departure in 2019 followed internal tension regarding his comments on football player safety, he subsequently worked with the MLB Network and CNN before retiring from play-by-play duties in late 2024. This return allows the 29-time Emmy winner to focus on his strengths in studio hosting and storytelling rather than the daily grind of live game narration, the timing aligns with NBC's strategy to revitalize its sports brand using trusted personalities.
Network Reveals Plans for Premier Baseball and Basketball Coverage
The veteran broadcaster will make his on-air debut on March 26, 2026, he is scheduled to cover the MLB Opening Day matchup between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Arizona Diamondbacks at 8:00 p.m. ET. NBC executives describe this new position as an "emeritus role," this designation creates a platform for Bob Costas to provide historical perspective without the physical demands of constant travel. The agreement coincides with the network's acquisition of Sunday Night Baseball rights through 2028, officials aim to restore a "big event" atmosphere to national telecasts by utilizing his familiar presence.
Viewers will also see Costas contribute to the revived NBA on NBC property, he will provide opening narrations and video essays that bridge the gap between the network's golden era and modern coverage. This role specifically excludes play-by-play duties, Costas previously stated a desire to step away from the booth while he retained his ability to deliver sharp analysis in a studio setting. The network plans to use him for major moments such as the NBA Finals and World Series coverage, this ensures his voice remains attached to the most significant events in American sports.
Strategic Move Adds Credibility to New Rights Deals
This hiring signals a major shift in how the network approaches its sports portfolio, executives are prioritizing prestige and established authority over younger personalities for these flagship broadcasts. The move immediately distinguishes NBC's baseball coverage from competitors like ESPN and Netflix, it leverages deep nostalgia to attract older viewers who associate Costas with the peak of sports television. The network secures instant credibility for its multibillion-dollar investment in league rights, fans can expect a broadcast style that emphasizes narrative and history over pure analytics.
Costas views this opportunity as the final chapter of his professional life, he intends to conclude his career at the network where he became a household name while guiding a new generation of viewers.
