With the recent departure of Chip Caray to the St. Louis Cardinals, the Atlanta Braves now find themselves in need of a new play by play broadcaster. Many names are getting thrown around, and with how exciting this Braves team is to watch, the job figures to be highly coveted. According to Braves beat writer, Mark Bowman, the names to watch in the early going are Ben Ingram and Tom Hart.
Tom Hart and Ben Ingram are among those who could replace Chip Caray. Former Marlins broadcaster Rich Waltz has ties to some Bally Sports South execs. But Bally’s financial woes could influence the decision
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) January 24, 2023
Ben Ingram has voiced radio play by play for the Braves on 680 The Fan, the flagship station for Braves baseball, alongside Braves hall of famer Joe Simpson since 2019. Ingram has been with the Braves since 2011, and among the most respected broadcasters amongst his peers. Personally, I have yet to meet a Braves fan that doesn’t enjoy listening to Ingram and I think he would be a great fit for the TV broadcast.
Tom Hart currently is doing play by play in college athletics for the SEC Network. Hart previously spent time with the Braves from 2011-2014 where he hosted Braves Live and served as an on-field reporter. I do fondly remember Hart’s time with the Braves when I was younger and having heard him call some college football games, I can say he has the voice and does a great job bringing life to the broadcast. Hart certainly figures to be a strong candidate.
The other name that was mentioned by Bowman, is former Marlins lead man Rich Waltz. He served as the Marlins lead man from 2005-2017 and has currently been calling college football and basketball for CBS Sports. Waltz does have previous ties with MLB Network and has experience calling postseason baseball as well.
However, as Bowman mentioned, Bally’s financial situation could influence the decision. The Braves are approaching the end of their current 20-year TV contract as it is set to expire in 2027.
These few are just the first names to be reported for the Braves new play by play lead, and I expect more will come in following days. Make sure to stay on the lookout for all the latest on the Braves play by play search, as everyone here at the site will have any of the latest rumblings posted as soon as they come in.