Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd Episode: Dodgers/Cubs Tokyo Opener, Caitlin Clark’s Massive Impact, College Football Playoff Changes
Release Date: March 7, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, host Colin Cowherd engages in a deep and insightful conversation with Michael Mulvihill, President of Insight and Analytics at Fox Sports. They delve into pivotal topics shaping the sports landscape, including Major League Baseball's international ventures, the evolving dynamics of sports broadcasting amidst the rise of streaming platforms, and the burgeoning influence of standout athletes in the WNBA.

Dodgers/Cubs Opening Series in Tokyo

[00:00 - 07:41]

Colin Cowherd initiates the discussion by highlighting Fox Sports' strategic decision to launch the MLB season with a high-profile series between the Dodgers and Cubs in Tokyo. He raises pertinent questions about the financial viability and strategic intent behind hosting games abroad, especially considering the substantial costs associated with international broadcasts.

Colin Cowherd [06:03]: "We had such just a remarkable National League playoffs in the World Series. I mean, it just baseball, probably the best baseball ratings in a decade."

Michael Mulvihill responds by emphasizing the importance of innovation and global branding in maintaining MLB's prominence. He underscores that while the Tokyo series may not be immediately profitable, it serves as a monumental event to kickstart the season and strengthen international ties, particularly in Japan—a market with a fervent baseball fanbase.

Michael Mulvihill [04:02]: "We did Field of Dreams, Rickwood Field, and now Tokyo. It's a great way to start the season and bring excitement."

The State of Baseball and TV Broadcasting

[07:41 - 16:29]

Colin transitions the conversation to the broader health of baseball as a television product compared to other major sports like the NFL, NBA, and emerging sports like UFC. He notes the cyclical popularity of sports and the inherent challenges baseball faces due to its regional appeal and economic disparities among teams.

Colin Cowherd [07:41]: "Does it not feel like baseball is probably the healthiest it's been from a television product since the Cubs year?"

Mulvihill elaborates on the persistent gap between high-revenue "haves" like the Dodgers and Yankees and the lower-revenue "have nots." He contrasts baseball's brand-driven model with the NBA's player-driven branding, highlighting the difficulty in elevating a team's national profile solely through star players.

Michael Mulvihill [08:53]: "In baseball, it's really hard to become a national star unless you're playing for one of the big brands."

Colin further explores the implications of this brand-centric model, pondering whether baseball's current momentum is sustainable or a short-lived peak.

Cable vs. Streaming: The Future of Sports Broadcasting

[16:29 - 29:49]

The discussion shifts to the evolving landscape of sports broadcasting, particularly the tension between traditional cable networks and the rise of streaming platforms. Colin expresses skepticism about the long-term viability of cable, citing the industry's struggles despite its integral role in sports broadcasting.

Colin Cowherd [22:06]: "I'm 60, Michael. I can't give cable up because I like college football and I'm not giving it up."

Mulvihill defends the profitability and continued relevance of cable TV, arguing that despite narratives of decline, cable remains a significant revenue driver for major media companies. He acknowledges the rise of streaming but contends that traditional broadcasting and streaming can coexist, each serving different facets of the sports-viewing audience.

Michael Mulvihill [16:29]: "Cable is going to continue to be certainly viable, very profitable."

Colin challenges the notion by pointing out the resilience of legacy media companies versus tech giants, questioning whether streaming platforms can match the production quality and community engagement fostered by traditional broadcasters.

Colin Cowherd [25:18]: "I think network television has a role in sports, even with streamers."

Mulvihill reiterates the unique position of legacy broadcasters in maintaining relevance through marquee sports rights, emphasizing that sports are pivotal for their identity and profitability.

The WNBA and Caitlin Clark’s Impact

[38:56 - 45:45]

Colin introduces a segment on the WNBA, spotlighting Caitlin Clark's transformative impact on the league's viewership and overall growth. He draws parallels between Clark's influence and that of iconic sports figures who have elevated their respective sports to new heights.

Colin Cowherd [38:56]: "Caitlin Clark is, as I've said, Taylor Swift in tennis shoes. It is just a once in a generation."

Mulvihill acknowledges Clark's pivotal role, citing her ability to triple the average viewership for WNBA games when she plays, likening her influence to that of Tiger Woods in golf. He also highlights the foundational growth of the WNBA independent of individual stars, pointing to emerging talents like Juju Watkins and Paige Bueckers as indicators of the league's sustained trajectory.

Michael Mulvihill [40:29]: "Caitlin Clark is plainly the driving force behind the growth of the league."

Colin pushes further, questioning the long-term sustainability of the WNBA without such standout talents and comparing the developmental stage of women's basketball to where men's college basketball was decades ago.

Colin Cowherd [42:37]: "Women's basketball is a lot like men's college basketball was in 1988."

Mulvihill responds by emphasizing the importance of simplicity and storytelling in building a fan base, arguing that the established history and narratives around players like Clark make the league more accessible and engaging for viewers.

Michael Mulvihill [44:26]: "We're always looking for ways to simplify being a sports fan."

Conclusion

In wrapping up the episode, Colin expresses his appreciation for Michael Mulvihill's insights, highlighting the value of their annual in-depth discussions. They reiterate the importance of strategic branding, the balance between traditional broadcasting and modern streaming, and the influential role of star athletes in propelling sports leagues forward.

Colin Cowherd [60:32]: "I think highly of you and I really do appreciate you taking the time."

Michael Mulvihill [60:53]: "Happy to do it anytime."

This episode offers listeners a comprehensive exploration of the current and future state of sports broadcasting, the enduring challenges and opportunities within Major League Baseball, the evolving dynamics of cable versus streaming, and the transformative impact of standout athletes in emerging leagues.

Notable Quotes:

• Colin Cowherd [38:56]: "Caitlin Clark is, as I've said, Taylor Swift in tennis shoes. It is just a once in a generation."

• Michael Mulvihill [40:29]: "Caitlin Clark is plainly the driving force behind the growth of the league."

• Colin Cowherd [25:18]: "I think network television has a role in sports, even with streamers."

• Michael Mulvihill [16:29]: "Cable is going to continue to be certainly viable, very profitable."

This detailed summary encapsulates the core discussions and insights from the episode, providing a clear and structured overview for those who haven't had the chance to listen.