Dave Jageler – Washington Nationals Radio Voice Celebrates 20 Years in the Booth

Dave Jageler brings Washington Nationals baseball to life for countless fans. He formed one of baseball’s most enduring broadcast partnerships with Charlie Slowes after joining the team in 2006. As Jageler enters his 20th season with the Nationals in 2025, he stands as half of the longest-running radio play-by-play duo in Washington Nationals history.

The Massachusetts native, born October 16, 1971, came to the Nationals from the PawSox (then the Triple-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox) and quickly established himself as a fixture in the Washington sports scene. His clear delivery, baseball knowledge, and chemistry with Slowes have made the radio broadcasts on 106.7 The Fan a must-listen for Nationals supporters.

Jageler’s dedication extends beyond the booth. The broadcaster has made a habit of maintaining his fitness regimen even during the demanding MLB schedule, with team staff noting that he’s made working out on road trips a priority. This professionalism and consistency mirror the approach that has kept him calling Nationals games for two decades, delivering the highs and lows of the franchise to listeners through rebuilding years and the 2019 World Series championship run alike.

Dave Jageler’s Early Life and Education

Dave Jageler’s journey to becoming a respected voice of the Washington Nationals has roots in his New England upbringing and foundational education at one of America’s premier broadcasting schools.

Birth and Upbringing

Dave Jageler was born on October 16, 1971, in the northeastern United States. He grew up in Windsor, Connecticut, a small town just north of Hartford with deep baseball traditions. The New England location positioned him in a region rich with sports culture, particularly baseball with the nearby Boston Red Sox influence.

His early years in Connecticut likely contributed to his passion for baseball, as the state has long maintained strong connections to both professional and amateur baseball leagues. While specific details about his family and childhood activities remain private, his Connecticut upbringing clearly fostered the foundation for what would become a distinguished broadcasting career.

Syracuse University

Jageler’s professional path took shape at Syracuse University’s S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, widely regarded as one of the nation’s elite broadcasting programs. At Syracuse, he didn’t simply study broadcasting theory – he actively began his play-by-play career while still a student.

The Newhouse School provided Jageler with both technical skills and practical experience that would prove invaluable in his future career. Syracuse’s strong alumni network in sports broadcasting likely offered connections and mentorship opportunities that helped shape his distinctive broadcasting style.

His college years coincided with a golden era of Syracuse sports, giving him ample opportunity to develop his craft calling games across multiple sports platforms. This education established the foundation for what would eventually lead him to the Washington Nationals’ broadcast booth.

Professional Journey Before the Major League

Dave Jageler’s path to the Washington Nationals broadcast booth was built on years of experience across multiple levels of sports broadcasting. His career trajectory showcases a broadcaster who honed his craft through various leagues and sports before landing his long-term role with a Major League Baseball team.

Early Broadcasting Career

Jageler’s broadcasting roots trace back to his college days at Syracuse University, a powerhouse for sports broadcasting education. After graduation, he quickly established himself as a versatile play-by-play talent in the Northeast region.

His early work included covering college basketball and football games for various radio networks. This foundation proved crucial as he developed his distinctive broadcasting style – clear, descriptive, and knowledgeable about the games he covered.

The mid-1990s saw Jageler taking on increasingly prominent assignments, building a reputation for thorough preparation and smooth delivery. These formative years shaped his approach to game calling that would later become familiar to Nationals fans.

Minor League Endeavors

Jageler’s baseball broadcasting career gained significant momentum in the minor leagues. His work with the Syracuse Chiefs gave him valuable experience calling baseball on a daily basis.

His most notable minor league position came in 2005 when he served as the lead radio voice for the Pawtucket Red Sox, the Triple-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox. This high-profile minor league role put him on the radar of major league teams.

The PawSox position proved to be the final stepping stone before the majors. His work there caught the attention of the Washington Nationals, who hired him following the 2005 season.

Team	League	Position	Year
Pawtucket Red Sox	Triple-A	Lead Radio Voice	2005
Syracuse Chiefs	Triple-A	Broadcaster	Prior to 2005

Diverse Sports Coverage

Beyond baseball, Jageler demonstrated remarkable versatility by covering multiple sports. He called games for the Boston Celtics, showcasing his ability to transition between the different rhythms of basketball and baseball.

His résumé also includes NFL coverage, further highlighting his adaptability across sporting disciplines. This multi-sport experience gave Jageler a breadth of knowledge that enriched his baseball commentary.

The diverse background allowed him to draw unique comparisons and insights during broadcasts. His experience with different sports’ pacing, terminology, and storytelling approaches created a well-rounded broadcasting style.

This versatility likely contributed to the Nationals’ decision to bring him aboard in 2006, where he would form one of the most enduring radio partnerships in the team’s history alongside Charlie Slowes.

Joining the Washington Nationals

Dave Jageler’s journey to becoming a voice of the Washington Nationals marked a significant career advancement after years of honing his broadcasting skills in the minor leagues. His partnership with Charlie Slowes would become one of the most recognizable radio duos in Major League Baseball.

Transition to MLB Broadcasting

Jageler made the leap to the big leagues in 2006 when he joined the Washington Nationals radio broadcast booth. This opportunity came after he spent the 2005 season as the radio and TV voice of the Pawtucket Red Sox in the Triple-A International League.

The timing couldn’t have been better for Jageler. He arrived as the Nationals were still establishing themselves after relocating from Montreal, giving him the chance to grow alongside the franchise.

Before landing with the Nationals, Jageler paid his dues in minor league baseball, developing the versatility and baseball knowledge that would serve him well in the Major League Broadcasting booth.

Developing a Signature Style

Jageler quickly established himself alongside broadcast partner Charlie Slowes, forming a dynamic duo that Nationals fans have come to love. Their chemistry in the radio booth became apparent almost immediately.

His broadcasting approach blends detailed play-by-play with insightful analysis, making complex baseball situations accessible to casual fans while satisfying hardcore enthusiasts.

What sets Jageler apart is his preparation. Before each game, he meticulously studies statistics and player tendencies, allowing him to provide context beyond just describing the action on the field.

Jageler’s Broadcasting Strengths
Detailed game preparation
Statistical analysis
Player background knowledge
In-game storytelling
Chemistry with Charlie Slowes

Notable Calls and Moments

The highlight of Jageler’s broadcasting career came during the Nationals’ magical 2019 World Series run. His call of the final out against the Houston Astros captured the euphoria of the franchise’s first championship.

“The Nationals are 2019 World Series Champions!” became an iconic line for Washington baseball fans who had waited years for a title.

Opening Day broadcasts hold special significance for Jageler, who treats each season’s first game with appropriate reverence and excitement. His enthusiasm sets the tone for the long baseball season ahead.

Another memorable moment came during Max Scherzer’s 20-strikeout game in 2016. Jageler’s voice rose with each successive strikeout, building tension and communicating the historical significance of what fans were witnessing.

Jageler and Slowes also recently provided their 2025 season preview for Nationals fans, demonstrating their continuing importance to the organization and its fanbase.

Partnerships in the Broadcast Booth

Dave Jageler has built his reputation on strong broadcasting partnerships that have defined Nationals radio for nearly two decades. His voice has become synonymous with Nationals baseball through consistent collaboration and chemistry with colleagues.

Charlie Slowes and Broadcasting Dynamics

Jageler and Charlie Slowes have formed the longest-running radio play-by-play duo in Washington Nationals history, working together since 2006. Their partnership spans nearly 20 seasons, creating a recognizable and reliable broadcast team for fans tuning in across the DC metropolitan area.

The pair developed a natural rhythm that baseball fans have come to appreciate. Slowes handles the play-by-play during certain innings while Jageler provides color commentary, and they swap roles throughout the game. This dynamic creates a balanced broadcast experience.

Their chemistry wasn’t immediate but evolved through thousands of games and countless hours together in the broadcast booth. What makes their partnership work is their complementary styles – Slowes brings energy and catchphrases while Jageler offers analytical insight and statistical context.

Guest Appearances

Throughout his broadcasting career with the Nationals, Jageler has worked alongside various guest commentators who have temporarily joined the booth. Before settling permanently with Slowes, Jageler was considered as part of a rotation that might have included toggling between radio and television broadcasts.

Jageler has occasionally filled in on television broadcasts when regular announcers were unavailable, demonstrating his versatility across broadcast mediums. His experience prior to joining the Nationals included work with Dave Flemming and partnerships similar to his current arrangement with Slowes.

The booth frequently welcomes former players and special guests during broadcasts, with Jageler smoothly integrating these visitors into the conversation. His interviewing skills and baseball knowledge help create engaging segments that enhance the broadcast experience.

Impact on Listeners and Fans

Dave Jageler’s voice has become a cornerstone of the Washington Nationals experience for radio listeners. His detailed play-by-play and baseball insights have created a strong connection with the fanbase beyond just calling games.

Community Engagement

Jageler has established himself as more than just a voice on the radio. He regularly participates in Nationals Park events, meeting fans and signing autographs during special occasions. These face-to-face interactions have helped humanize the broadcast booth.

His active Twitter presence gives fans additional insights and commentary outside of game broadcasts. During the Nationals’ 2019 World Series run, Jageler’s calls became rallying moments for the fanbase.

After calling an incredible 2,016 consecutive games, Jageler finally broke his iron-man streak in 2018 to attend his son’s graduation. The outpouring of support from listeners demonstrated the personal connection fans feel toward him.

Educational Contribution

Jageler’s broadcasts serve as baseball classrooms for listeners of all ages. His ability to explain complex situations and rules makes the game accessible to casual fans while providing depth for diehards.

Young Nationals fans often cite Jageler as their introduction to understanding baseball’s nuances. His methodical breakdown of defensive shifts, pitch sequencing, and managerial decisions provides listeners with a graduate-level baseball education during each broadcast.

Working alongside Charlie Slowes, the duo has created what many consider a premier radio broadcast experience in baseball. Their chemistry and complementary styles enhance the educational aspect of their broadcasts.

Baseball teachers and youth coaches have reported using Jageler’s explanations as teaching tools for young players learning the game’s finer points.

Personal Insights and Anecdotes

Dave Jageler has built a rich life both inside and outside the broadcast booth, balancing professional excellence with personal commitments. His genuine personality and encyclopedic baseball knowledge have earned him respect throughout the Nationals organization.

Life Beyond the Microphone

Jageler demonstrated his commitment to family when he broke his remarkable broadcasting streak of 2,016 consecutive games to attend his son’s graduation—a rare moment away from the microphone that ended his iron-man streak. This decision underscored his priorities outside of baseball.

Players and coaches often remark on Jageler’s professionalism and preparation. His pre-game routine involves extensive research that builds trust with the team.

When not calling games, Jageler enjoys golfing with fellow broadcasters and spending time with his family. His colleagues describe him as having a quick, dry wit that doesn’t always make it to air.

His broadcasting style reflects his personality: detail-oriented, prepared, and authentic.

Memorable Game Reflections

Jageler had the privilege of calling some of the most significant moments in Nationals history, including three no-hitters and the team’s historic 2019 World Series championship run. His voice became the soundtrack to Max Scherzer’s dominant performances and other pivotal moments.

When reflecting on memorable calls, Jageler often mentions the electricity of Game 7 of the 2019 World Series. His voice cracked with emotion as the final out was recorded.

A particularly funny moment occurred during a rain delay when Jageler and broadcast partner Charlie Slowes entertained listeners with impromptu comedy for nearly two hours. Their chemistry has become legendary among Nationals fans.

The pair’s catchphrases and signature calls have become part of Nationals culture, with their partnership widely praised for its balance of insights and entertainment.

The Craft of Baseball Broadcasting

Baseball broadcasting demands precise technical skills, deep game knowledge, and adaptability. These elements combine to create the immersive experience fans enjoy through the voices of seasoned professionals like Dave Jageler.

Technical Skills and On-Air Strategies

Dave Jageler, the voice of the Washington Nationals since 2006, exemplifies broadcasting excellence through his technical precision. His partnership with Charlie Slowes has created one of baseball’s most recognizable radio duos, delivering play-by-play that brings the game to life for listeners.

A skilled broadcaster must master microphone technique, voice modulation, and timing. Jageler excels at these fundamentals while maintaining conversational flow during the game’s natural breaks.

His preparation is legendary among peers. Before each series, he compiles detailed statistics and player information that allows him to seamlessly weave stories between pitches.

Baseball broadcasters like Jageler must paint the complete picture for radio audiences. This includes describing the field conditions, player positioning, and even the weather – elements television viewers take for granted.

Challenges and Rewards

The baseball broadcasting schedule presents unique challenges – 162 regular-season games means approximately 500 hours of airtime annually. This demands tremendous stamina and vocal endurance from professionals like Jageler.

Road trips create additional hurdles. Broadcasters travel with the team, facing disrupted sleep schedules and unfamiliar broadcast booths while maintaining consistent energy and insight.

Weather delays test a broadcaster’s ability to fill airtime with engaging content when no action occurs on the field. Jageler’s encyclopedic knowledge of Nationals history becomes particularly valuable during these stretches.

Despite these challenges, the rewards are substantial. Broadcasters experience historic moments firsthand – Jageler’s call of the Nationals’ 2019 World Series championship stands as a career highlight and permanent part of franchise lore.

Dave Jageler’s Influence in Major League Baseball

Dave Jageler has established himself as one of the most respected voices in baseball broadcasting through his dedicated work with the Washington Nationals. His consistent delivery and baseball knowledge have made him a fixture in MLB radio commentary.

Contributions as a Nationals’ Voice

Dave Jageler joined the Washington Nationals broadcast team in 2006 and has become synonymous with the franchise’s rise to prominence. Alongside Charlie Slowes, Jageler forms half of what many consider one of baseball’s best radio duos.

His dedication to the craft is legendary. Jageler once covered an impressive 2,016 consecutive games for the Nationals, showing remarkable commitment rarely seen in modern broadcasting.

When the Nationals captured their first World Series title in 2019, Jageler’s passionate calls helped immortalize those moments for fans. His Twitter profile proudly displays his status as a 2019 World Series Champion Washington Nationals radio broadcaster.

Jageler’s preparation is meticulous. He studies statistics, player backgrounds, and team histories to provide context during broadcasts. This attention to detail has made Nationals radio broadcasts informative even for casual listeners.

Reputation Among Peers

Within MLB broadcasting circles, Jageler has earned widespread respect. Before joining the Nationals, he built his foundation calling minor league games, including a stint with the PawSox that left a lasting impression.

PawSox President Mike Tamburro once noted that “Dave Jageler is a talented, young broadcaster who, in only one season, left his mark with fans of PawSox Baseball”. This recognition early in his career signaled his potential for success.

Industry professionals admire Jageler’s broadcasting style for its clarity and insight. His voice has become familiar to baseball fans throughout Washington DC and beyond through radio broadcasts and talk show appearances.

Jageler’s preparation methods are often cited as exemplary by broadcasting students and aspiring commentators. He emphasizes that consistent work builds expertise, noting that broadcasting allows you to “develop your timing, your rhythm and cadence” through daily practice.

Each spring, Jageler provides fans with season previews that showcase his analytical skills and deep knowledge of the game. Recently, he joined Grant Paulsen at The Lost Rhino to discuss the Nationals’ 2025 season outlook.

Explicit Recounts of Significant Games

Dave Jageler’s voice has captured some of the most memorable moments in Washington Nationals history. His detailed play-by-play narration brings games to life for listeners, especially during crucial postseason runs and career-defining broadcasts.

Postseason Highlights

Jageler’s call of the 2019 World Series victory stands as his crowning achievement. When the Nationals defeated the Houston Astros in Game 7, his voice cracked with emotion as he declared, “The Washington Nationals are World Series champions!”

His description of Howie Kendrick’s go-ahead home run off the foul pole in Game 7 conveyed both surprise and elation. “It’s off the foul pole! It’s a home run!” The call instantly became legendary among Nationals fans.

During the 2019 Wild Card game against the Milwaukee Brewers, Jageler masterfully narrated Juan Soto’s clutch hit and the Milwaukee outfielder’s error that changed the game’s outcome.

2019 Postseason	Games Called	Memorable Calls
Wild Card	1	Soto’s game-winning hit
NLDS	5	Game 5 comeback vs. Dodgers
NLCS	4	Sweep of Cardinals
World Series	7	Game 7 victory

Career-Defining Moments

Jageler’s call of Stephen Strasburg‘s debut in 2010 captured the electricity of the moment. “Fourteen strikeouts! The phenom has arrived!” he exclaimed as the rookie dominated the Pittsburgh Pirates.

His iron-man streak of 2,016 consecutive games broadcast ended in 2018. He attended his son’s graduation, showing his dedication to his craft. This paralleled the commitment of players like Ryan Zimmerman, whom Jageler frequently praised during broadcasts.

The 2012 playoff series against the St. Louis Cardinals featured Jageler’s painful but honest account of the Nationals’ collapse in Game 5. His voice carried the heartbreak of fans as he described the final outs.

When Max Scherzer threw his second no-hitter against the New York Mets in 2015, Jageler’s call grew increasingly excited with each out. By the final pitch, his voice reached a crescendo that perfectly matched the moment’s significance.