The Los Angeles Dodgers setting franchise records during the 2019 regular season extended to their TV network, as SportsNet LA recorded their highest-ever ratings with a +2% increase in household rating (1.77 vs. 1.73) from a year ago.
SportsNet LA additionally registered a +10% increase in A25-54 rating (0.79 vs. 0.72) and a +3% increase in viewers (136,976 vs. 132,626). Postgame airings of “Access SportsNet: Dodgers” recorded a +6% year-over-year increase in A25-54 rating (0.36 vs. 0.34) for the 2019 season.
Furthermore, SportsNet LA produces the Emmy Award-winning “Backstage: Dodgers,” which provides fans with a weekly glimpse into the players’ lives and off-the-field interests.
SportsNet LA’s season-long coverage was again anchored by John Hartung and reporter Alanna Rizzo, with analysts Ned Colletti, Nomar Garciaparra, Jerry Hairston Jr. and Chase Utley rotating throughout the year.
Utley was a new addition in 2019 and surprised himself by enjoying the television role. “If you asked me 10 years ago if I thought I would work for a front office or be on TV, I would’ve said absolutely not,” he told DodgerBlue.com during a visit to the SportsNet LA studios.
“But, I’ve enjoyed my experience here in L.A. One, because we had a great team. Two, because I grew up a Dodgers fan. Putting that all together was amazing.
“The ability to stay in baseball now that I’m not playing but still have some kind of voice, I thought was important. Trying the TV thing out, which is still new to me, but so far I’m enjoying it. It’s actually been fairly seamless.”
Joe Davis handled play-by-play duties and was accompanied in the broadcast booth by color analyst Orel Hershiser, who occasionally would fill in as an analyst as well.
Although postseason games are switched over to national broadcasts, SportsNet LA continued to provide comprehensive coverage via pre- and postgame shows and regular studio programming throughout the National League Division Series.
The Dodgers fell unexpectedly short in October but still gave their broadcasting crew plenty to discuss during the season. The team finished with a franchise record 106 wins and thrilled Dodger Stadium to the tune of an MLB-leading 12 walk-off wins.
Hyun-Jin Ryu remained at the center of the Cy Young Award discussion and Cody Bellinger did so for MVP. There were also eight rookies who made their MLB debut this season.
SportsNet LA will continue their coverage throughout the offseason, including from the Winter Meetings, and with any potential trades or signings. Fans who wish to receive 24/7 coverage of the Dodgers are encouraged to switch to Spectrum.
