This is probably true. The term "Superstar" in sports doesn't really apply to talent or skill, it applies to marketability. Even though Chapman is very talented, he's famous for his fastball, and it has turned him into a superstar.
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I HATE national broadcasts. I love the FSO crew by comparison. I know he's not well liked by some, but I could listen to the Cowboy do color all day long...he makes listening to or watching a game fun. Let ESPN focus on the big markets.
THIS! Even intentional talk, MLBN's "silly" show is better than Sportscenter. They have a show where they break down stories by sabremetrics...ESPN is TMZ for dudes. I think watching ESPN actually makes you dumber as a sports fan. I watch MLB Network every day.
I can't imagine the intrigue of Astros-Rangers outshining a Reds-Angels matchup. The star power of Pujols, Hamilton, Weaver, Trout, Votto, Cueto, Chapman, Phillips, etc. certainly would offer more attraction/entertainment than what the other game features.
Next time the Reds are approached about changing a game's start time to accommodate one of MLBN or ESPN telecasts, I would tell 'em to stuff it up their network!