David Cone’s Future with ESPN in Question
ESPN’s updated baseball schedule may lead to a significant change for one of its top analysts, David Cone.
Starting next season, ESPN is moving its marquee games from ‘Sunday Night Baseball’ to midweek slots. This shift could interfere with Cone’s commitments to the Yankees-affiliated YES Network, potentially leading to a conflict. Sources suggest a split might be on the horizon.
Cone’s current contract is expected to end just as the 2026 MLB season kicks off on March 25, when the Yankees will face the Giants.
“ESPN values Cone highly and wants to retain him, but managing two different network schedules could be tough,” a source commented. “We’ll see how things unfold.”
At 62, Cone stands out as one of the sport’s premier analysts. His 17-year career in the majors has garnered him a reputation for providing viewers with insightful analysis on pitchers and hitters alike.
The traditional Sunday game broadcasts suited Cone’s schedule. He often missed the last day of a series and had weekends free during certain seasons, making it easier to align his YES Network obligations with ESPN’s format.
The 2025 season marked Cone’s fourth year announcing for Sunday Night Baseball, following his previous roles with the YES Network that began in 2011, along with short tenures in 2002 and 2008-2009.
Jared Boshnak, executive producer and vice president of production for YES, noted that Cone participated in 40 games for the Yankees last year and plans to cover even more in the upcoming season.
“David is exceptional. He elevates our team,” Boshnak shared. “We’re thrilled to have him.”
Cone’s prominence rose as the network transitioned away from analyst John Flaherty.
If a resolution can’t be reached between ESPN and Cone, there’s a possibility he could explore opportunities with NBC or Netflix.
NBC plans to resume airing MLB games, including a schedule of 25 Sunday night games for the 2026 season. The network is currently searching for a new “star game analyst” to cover these games and wildcard events.
Netflix is also entering the fray, although with a more limited selection of games, including a home run derby.
The streaming platform will showcase the opening game between the Yankees and Giants and other select matchups during the season.
