In a surprising pre-season shakeup, ESPN has decided to make a major change to its broadcast lineup, parting ways with veteran analyst and five-time World Series champion David Cone. The network confirmed on Friday that the former Cy Young Award winner will not return for its 2026 Major League Baseball coverage, ending his tenure on the flagship 'Sunday Night Baseball' broadcast where he worked alongside Eduardo Pérez and Karl Ravech.

A Sudden Shift in the Broadcast Booth

With Opening Day still months away on March 25, this move signals a significant shift in ESPN's baseball presentation. A network spokesperson expressed gratitude for Cone's contributions, stating, "We appreciate David's many contributions to our Major League Baseball coverage and wish him the best." The decision comes as ESPN adjusts its scheduling following its move away from exclusive Sunday night broadcasts.

Cone brought unparalleled pitching insight to the booth, leveraging his 17-year major league career that included 194 wins, a 3.46 ERA, and 2,668 strikeouts. While he played for multiple franchises including the Mets, Royals, Blue Jays, and Red Sox, he is most celebrated for his key role in the New York Yankees' dynasty, capturing five World Series rings in pinstripes.

What's Next for the Broadcasting Veteran?

Fortunately for baseball fans, Cone's voice won't be absent from the airwaves. According to reports, he is expected to continue his work with the YES Network, maintaining his presence calling New York Yankees games. This softens the blow of his ESPN departure, ensuring his expert analysis remains available to a dedicated audience.

"David Cone will not be returning to ESPN," confirmed a report from The Athletic. "No hard feelings, but ESPN's schedule has changed due to moving off of Sunday Nights. He will remain on YES and call Yankee games." This indicates the split was more about logistical changes than performance, as Cone was widely regarded as one of the sharpest pitching analysts in television.

The YES Network, however, is undergoing its own changes. In a separate but coinciding move, the regional sports network has parted ways with longtime analyst John Flaherty. Flaherty, who spent two decades with YES, expressed his gratitude upon the news: "So I was informed yesterday that I will not be offered a contract from YES for next season. I am very grateful for my 20 years at the Network. I want to thank the Yankees and especially the Yankee fans."

These dual announcements mark a period of transition for baseball broadcasting as networks refine their on-air talent rosters. Cone's departure from the national stage removes a respected former player known for his ability to break down complex pitching mechanics in an accessible way for viewers.

As the 2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on how ESPN reshuffles its 'Sunday Night Baseball' crew. Replacing a personality of Cone's caliber—a champion with direct, recent experience in the game's biggest moments—presents a challenge. The network's decision underscores the ever-evolving nature of sports media, where even beloved and knowledgeable analysts are subject to broader strategic shifts.

For now, fans can expect to hear Cone's familiar insights during Yankees broadcasts on YES, while ESPN searches for a new voice to help lead its national baseball coverage into a new era.