In a significant move for sports broadcasting, Bob Costas is making a celebrated return to NBC Sports to host the "Sunday Night Baseball" pregame show. The network confirmed this exciting development on Thursday, 22 January 2026, signalling a reunion with one of baseball's most iconic voices.
A Legendary Broadcaster Comes Home
Bob Costas, whose career has been synonymous with NBC for decades, will anchor the pregame coverage, bringing his unparalleled expertise back to the network. This announcement coincides with NBC's return to broadcasting baseball, adding a layer of nostalgia and prestige to the upcoming season.
Making Sunday Night Baseball Feel Big
NBC Sports President Rick Cordella emphasised the importance of this appointment in a statement to The Associated Press. "We're trying to make 'Sunday Night Baseball' feel big. There's no bigger name associated with baseball than Bob, and it's also great to have him back in the NBC fold," Cordella said. He highlighted Costas's historical significance, noting, "Bob was the face of NBC Sports and maybe the network for a period of time. To bring him back as he sort of winds down his career is the right thing to do. And when we got baseball back, it made a lot of sense."
Costas's Storied Career with NBC
Costas spent an impressive 39 years with NBC before departing in 2019, during which he became a household name. His tenure included hosting 12 Olympics, with 11 as the primetime host, and covering seven Super Bowls. He also played roles in 10 NBA Finals and seven World Series, cementing his status as a versatile and respected broadcaster.
Reflecting on his return, Costas expressed deep gratitude. "As appreciative as I am of other aspects of my career, especially HBO and the MLB Network, for 40 years, my true broadcasting home was NBC," he said in a statement. "So many great moments, memories, and friendships. Now, I am very grateful to Rick Cordella and Sam Flood for inviting me back in an emeritus role to conclude my career where so much of it played out."
A Lifelong Passion for Baseball
Baseball has always held a special place in Costas's heart. He called games on NBC from 1982 to 1989 and again from 1994 to 2000. His notable contributions include being one of the announcers for the 1995 World Series and serving as the main play-by-play voice for the Fall Classic in 1997 and 1999.
Beyond NBC, Costas has been a prominent voice for TBS and MLB Network, where he has been involved since its inception in 2009. He recently announced his retirement from play-by-play after the 2024 American League Division Series between the Kansas City Royals and New York Yankees, but continues to contribute to baseball coverage, such as the Hall of Fame announcement.
Accolades and Ongoing Contributions
In recognition of his excellence, Costas received the Hall of Fame's Ford C. Frick Award for broadcast excellence in 2018. His return to NBC is not limited to baseball; he has already been involved with the network's NBA coverage this season, narrating opening teases. As a 29-time Sports Emmy winner, Costas previously served as a host or play-by-play announcer during NBC's initial NBA coverage from 1990 to 2002.
NBC has confirmed that Costas will continue to contribute to NBA games this season, with further details to be announced. His role in the "Sunday Night Baseball" pregame show will kick off with NBC's coverage of the season opener, featuring the two-time defending World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers hosting the Arizona Diamondbacks on Thursday, 26 March 2026.
This return marks a full-circle moment for Bob Costas, blending his legendary past with NBC's renewed commitment to baseball broadcasting, promising fans an enhanced and memorable viewing experience.
