Front Office Sports Today

Latest Episodes:

Record $76M Buyout for Jimbo Fisher Alters Coaching Landscape Nov 13, 2023

Show notes

Texas A&M let go of head coach Jimbo Fisher, who is still owed around $76 million. That’s a record buyout for any college coach, and represents the Aggies’ incredible willingness to spend on their program. Also, Megan Rapinoe ends one of the most impactful careers in U.S. soccer history.

Plus, we hear from Covers.com sports betting journalist Geoff Zochodne on what the launch of ESPN Bet will mean for the sports wagering industry, which is increasingly centered around a small number of major players.

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Federal Government Could Shape Future of College Sports Nov 10, 2023

Show notes

The Biden Administration held an information gathering session with four former college football players, and indicated support for reforms to provide more benefits for athletes. We also look at the NWSL’s transformative new media rights deals and Nick Saban’s growing collection of luxury car dealerships.

Plus, we hear from veteran and Paralympic gold medalist Brad Snyder on the impact of the Paralympic Games, how sponsor deals have helped bring equity and access to para athletes, and the connections between the veteran and para athlete communities.

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Annika Sörenstam Working to Change Narratives in Golf Nov 09, 2023

Show notes

Annika Sörenstam joins us along with Parity CEO Leela Srinivasan to discuss the $3.25 million purse for The Annika LPGA event, which is part of Gainbridge’s Parity Week. We also discuss the golf legend's induction into the Augusta National golf club, and joining forces with Billie Jean King and Lyn St. James to advocate for women athletes.

We also check in on Amazon’s plans for the Black Friday broadcast to marry football and holiday shopping.

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The Shohei Sweepstakes Begins Nov 08, 2023

Show notes

Shohei Ohtani is a free agent, bringing the baseball world to a moment it has been anticipating for years. The two-way star could set the record for highest playing contract in U.S. history. We look at which teams could sign the star.

Plus, New York Mets owner Steve Cohen is looking to develop the area around Citi Field with an $8 billion project, which could be contingent on him landing a coveted casino license.

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Billie Jean King on 50 Years of Progress Nov 07, 2023

Show notes

Billie Jean King, who is being honored at Gainbridge’s Parity Week, has made a seismic impact on sports, civil rights, and culture in the U.S. and the world. This week, she’s joining golf and racing legends Annika Sörenstam and Lyn St. James to celebrate and further the causes of creating space and careers for women in sports.

We also look at issues with the courts designed for the NBA’s midseason tournament and a slew of MLB managers changing teams.

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Why the WNBA Ditched Portland Nov 06, 2023

Show notes

The WNBA’s move to Portland seemed like a foregone conclusion. So why did it reverse course? The league’s stated reasons don’t necessarily hold water, and Bill Oram of the Oregonian joins to provide an alternate theory, based on his reporting.

Plus, we look at a women’s soccer move that will be felt on both sides of the Atlantic, the owner of the Washington Capitals and Wizards seeking $600 million in public funds, and a broken curse in Japanese baseball.

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Prestige and Riches On the Line at Breeders Cup Nov 03, 2023

Show notes

The Breeders Cup, which begins on Friday, offers the largest U.S. prize pool in horse racing. The signature race at the tournament carries a prize of $6 million, but millions more will be won throughout the weekend. Fanduel TV’s Dave Weaver joins us to discuss the race and the state of horse racing amid concerns about equine safety.

Plus, we hear from barrier-breaking racing legend Lyn St. James, who was among the first women to break through in the racing world and has continued to advocate for women in a male-dominated sport.

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How LSU Came to Dominate NIL Era Nov 02, 2023

Show notes

LSU unveiled its lavish women’s basketball locker room, the latest example of how the program has invested in its top-tier program. The school is defending its NCAA tournament title while asserting itself as a top target for recruits and transfers.

Plus, we hear from F2 driver Juan Manuel Correa, who had to leave his home country and overcome long odds to make it to his current position, one step away from Formula 1.

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Did New NBA Rule Catalyze James Harden Blockbuster? Nov 01, 2023

Show notes

After a summer of speculation, James Harden is finally on his way to the Los Angeles Clippers. We look into how the NBA’s new rules around load management for star players may have helped bring the deal to fruition — and how they might give players leverage going forward.

Plus, we take a deep dive into the record-low viewership numbers for the World Series, which present a mix of systemic and circumstantial issues for MLB.

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Harbaugh Feeling Heat of Michigan Sign-Stealing Accusations Oct 31, 2023

Show notes

No sanctions have been issued in the sign-stealing investigation of undefeated Michigan, but it’s reportedly already affecting head coach Jim Harbaugh. Michigan reportedly rescinded an offer that would have made him the highest-paid coach in the Big Ten and fourth among all college coaches — and the NFL will carry over any suspensions he gets from the NCAA, should he return to that league.

We also check in on the latest news regarding the Oakland A’s move to Las Vegas and hear from Hall of Fame MLB catcher Ivan “Pudge” Rodriguez. A special advisor to the Texas Rangers, Pudge discusses their World Series run and what makes the organization different off the field.

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