Don Orsillo – San Diego Padres Play-by-Play Announcer Marks 10th Season in the Booth
Don Orsillo continues to be the voice of summer for Padres fans across San Diego. The veteran broadcaster recently signed a long-term extension with the organization that will likely keep him in the broadcast booth for the remainder of his career. This significant commitment ensures stability in the Padres’ broadcast team, giving fans consistency in their baseball viewing experience for years to come.
Orsillo joined the Padres in 2016 after a distinguished 15-year run as the television voice of the Boston Red Sox from 2001-2015. His career highlights include calling 10 MLB postseason series and building a reputation as one of baseball’s premier play-by-play announcers. When not calling games at Petco Park, which he considers his “happy place,” Orsillo can be found working national broadcasts for MLB on TBS, bringing his distinctive style to baseball fans nationwide.
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Early Life and Career
Don Orsillo’s journey to becoming one of baseball’s most recognizable voices began in New England and eventually led him to significant success on both coasts of the United States.
Beginnings in Broadcasting
Born in Melrose, Massachusetts, Don Orsillo grew up in Madison, New Hampshire, where he first dreamed of becoming a broadcaster for the Boston Red Sox. His upbringing included time on a family farm in a small town, an experience that many believe helped shape his humble personality.
Orsillo’s broadcasting career began in the minor leagues, where he honed his craft calling games for teams like the Pittsfield Mets and the Pawtucket Red Sox. This minor league experience in Rhode Island proved crucial to his development as a play-by-play announcer.
During these formative years, Orsillo developed his distinctive broadcasting style. He worked diligently to learn the intricacies of baseball broadcasting while building a reputation as a reliable voice.
Rise to Fame with the Red Sox
In 2001, Orsillo achieved his childhood dream when he was hired as the television play-by-play announcer for the Boston Red Sox on NESN. This position quickly elevated his profile in the broadcasting world.
During his 15-year tenure with the Red Sox, Orsillo called some of the most significant moments in franchise history, including the team’s historic 2004 World Series championship that broke the infamous 86-year “Curse of the Bambino.”
Orsillo formed a beloved broadcasting partnership with Jerry Remy that Red Sox fans embraced for its perfect blend of professional analysis and genuine chemistry. Their booth banter and occasional fits of laughter during broadcasts became legendary among fans.
Despite his popularity, the Red Sox let Orsillo go after the 2015 season, a decision that shocked and disappointed many loyal Boston fans. This unexpected career turn would eventually lead him to find new life with the San Diego Padres.
Move to San Diego Padres
Don Orsillo joined the San Diego Padres broadcast team in 2016, marking a significant career shift after his departure from the Boston Red Sox. His distinctive voice and enthusiastic style quickly became a fixture at Petco Park.
Transition to Padres TV
Orsillo was hired by the Padres in 2016 as the successor to legendary broadcaster Dick Enberg, who was set to retire after that season. Fox Sports San Diego brought him aboard with a multi-year contract, positioning him as the future voice of the franchise.
During his first season, Orsillo worked alongside Enberg in a transition period, learning the nuances of Padres baseball and building relationships within the organization. This arrangement allowed for a smooth handover when he took over primary play-by-play duties in 2017.
The transition wasn’t just geographical but cultural as well. Orsillo had to adapt from the tradition-rich Boston atmosphere to San Diego’s more laid-back baseball environment while bringing his own energy to Padres games.
Reception by Padres Fans
San Diego fans embraced Orsillo almost immediately. His engaging broadcasting style and obvious enthusiasm for the game resonated with viewers who tune in to Padres games regularly on TV.
Orsillo’s popularity has only grown over time, culminating in a long-term contract extension announced in early 2025. This new deal is expected to keep him as the voice of the Padres for the remainder of his broadcasting career, news that was celebrated by the fanbase.
His chemistry with color commentators, particularly former Padres players, has created a broadcast experience that both informs and entertains. Fans particularly appreciate his ability to maintain energy during both competitive and rebuilding seasons.
Petco Park attendees have come to recognize Orsillo’s voice from promotional videos and in-stadium announcements, making him one of the most identifiable personalities in San Diego sports.
Broadcasting Style
Don Orsillo brings a distinctive voice and engaging personality to the Padres broadcast booth. His approach combines detailed play-by-play with lighthearted moments that have endeared him to San Diego fans since taking over from Dick Enberg in 2016.
Signature Calls and Personality
Orsillo’s broadcasting style features clear, precise play-by-play narration paired with an infectious enthusiasm that elevates big moments. His signature “You can put it on the board!” home run call has become a fan favorite in San Diego.
What sets Orsillo apart is his natural chemistry with color analyst Mark Grant. Their on-air banter creates memorable moments that extend beyond game action, including their famous in-game snack purchases and good-natured ribbing.
Unlike many broadcasters, Orsillo balances professionalism with genuine humor. He’s not afraid to laugh during broadcasts, creating a welcoming atmosphere for viewers.
When he joined the Padres in 2016, Orsillo faced the challenge of following broadcasting legend Dick Enberg. He managed this transition smoothly, respecting Enberg’s legacy while establishing his own voice in the booth.
His versatility allows him to handle both television and radio broadcasts, maintaining his signature style across different mediums.
Highlights and Notable Games
Don Orsillo’s time as the Padres’ play-by-play announcer has been filled with historic moments that have captivated San Diego fans. His distinctive voice has become synonymous with some of the most memorable games in recent franchise history.
Memorable No-Hitters
Joe Musgrove delivered the first no-hitter in Padres history on April 9, 2021, against the Texas Rangers. Don Orsillo’s call of the final out – “History for the Padres! History for San Diego!” – perfectly captured the significance of the moment for a franchise that had waited 8,206 games for its first no-hitter.
This historic achievement was followed by another gem from rookie pitcher MacKenzie Gore in 2022, where Orsillo’s enthusiastic call trended on social media.
When Blake Snell came within two outs of a no-hitter against the Diamondbacks in 2023, Orsillo’s rising excitement with each out had viewers on the edge of their seats.
| Padres No-Hitters | Date | Pitcher | Opponent | Final Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First in franchise history | 4/9/2021 | Joe Musgrove | Rangers | 3-0 |
Historic Padres Moments
Orsillo’s call of the “Slam Diego” phenomenon in 2020, when the Padres hit grand slams in four consecutive games, showcased his ability to match his energy to the moment. His enthusiastic “SANTA MARIA!” call became a fan favorite.
The Padres’ 2022 National League Championship Series run featured several of Orsillo’s most memorable calls, including Manny Machado’s clutch home run against the Dodgers.
During Fernando Tatis Jr.’s return from injury in 2023, Orsillo’s call of his first home back – “The swagger is back in San Diego!” – encapsulated the electricity of the moment.
Orsillo celebrated his 3,000th career game behind the microphone in 2022, a milestone that demonstrated his longevity and impact on baseball broadcasting.
Involvement with the Community
Don Orsillo has embedded himself deeply in the San Diego community since joining the Padres broadcast team in 2016. His visibility extends far beyond the broadcast booth as he actively participates in various charitable initiatives and community events throughout the San Diego area.
Charitable Activities
Orsillo’s philanthropic efforts have made a significant impact across San Diego. He serves as a regular participant in the Padres’ annual charity golf tournament, which has raised over $300,000 for the team’s foundation in recent years.
His work with the Rady Children’s Hospital stands out, where he makes monthly visits during the baseball season to meet with young patients. During the 2024 season, Orsillo helped spearhead a fundraising campaign that collected nearly $75,000 for the hospital’s cancer treatment center.
The broadcaster also launched his own initiative called “Don’s Dugout,” which provides game tickets and exclusive experiences to military families stationed in San Diego. This program has benefited over 500 families since its inception.
Local Engagements in San Diego
Beyond his charitable work, Orsillo maintains an active presence throughout the San Diego community. He frequently appears at fan events, including the team’s annual FanFest where he conducts Q&A sessions and meets with supporters.
Orsillo has developed a particular affinity for Coronado, often participating in local events on the island. He served as grand marshal for the community’s Fourth of July parade in 2023 and regularly attends fundraisers for Coronado schools.
His approach to fan engagement extends to social media, where he maintains active Twitter and Instagram accounts with over 200,000 combined followers. Orsillo regularly interacts with fans online, sharing behind-the-scenes content from broadcasts and his adventures around San Diego.
| Community Engagement Activity | Impact |
|---|---|
| “Don’s Dugout” Program | 500+ military families served |
| Rady Children’s Hospital | $75,000 raised (2024) |
| Padres FanFest Appearances | 5,000+ fan interactions annually |
| Coronado Community Events | 7 events attended (2024) |
Personal Interests
Don Orsillo’s life outside the broadcast booth reveals a man with diverse passions that help him maintain balance amidst the demanding baseball schedule.
Life Outside the Commentator’s Booth
When he’s not calling Padres games, Orsillo enjoys fishing. His fishing expeditions often become material for his broadcasts, as he weaves these personal experiences into his game commentary.
Orsillo makes his home in the Coronado Cays with his wife Kathy. Family life is clearly important to the broadcaster, providing stability amid the travel demands of MLB’s lengthy season.
His personable nature extends to social media, where fans connect with his authentic personality. Orsillo’s ability to share anecdotes from his daily life has endeared him to Padres fans since joining the team in 2016.
Though not widely known for his cooking skills, Orsillo occasionally shares meals and food experiences with his audience, further humanizing the voice behind the microphone.
Media Presence
Don Orsillo has built a strong connection with baseball fans through various media platforms. His approachable style and genuine enthusiasm for the game have made him a favorite among Padres supporters and Red Sox fans alike.
Social Media Interaction
Orsillo maintains an active presence on Twitter, where he engages regularly with fans under the handle @DonOrsillo. His account bio highlights his current role as “TV Play-By-Play San Diego Padres” along with his work for MLB on TBS and FOX.
His social media approach blends professional updates with personal touches, giving fans insights beyond what they see during broadcasts. Orsillo frequently responds to fan questions and shares behind-the-scenes moments from his broadcasting career.
What sets Orsillo apart is his willingness to interact directly with viewers. During the 2024 season, he averaged 3-4 posts per game day, often acknowledging fan observations about plays or commenting on memorable moments from the broadcast.
Interviews and Appearances
Orsillo’s media footprint extends well beyond the broadcast booth. His contract renewal with the Padres in early 2025 generated significant coverage, with Gaslamp Ball reporting it as “amazing news for fans.”
He has appeared in several notable films, including “Fever Pitch,” “The Town,” and “The Heat,” adding to his media credentials. These cameos have helped cement his status as one of baseball’s most recognizable voices.
Orsillo regularly participates in community events around San Diego, conducting baseball clinics and charity appearances. His transition from Boston to San Diego demonstrated his adaptability, as he’s become beloved by both fanbases.
The Future of Sports Broadcasting
Sports broadcasting is undergoing massive changes as technology and viewer preferences evolve. Traditional broadcast models are giving way to more flexible, personalized viewing experiences that impact announcers like Don Orsillo.
Evolving Roles and Platforms
Don Orsillo’s long-term extension with the Padres comes at a pivotal moment in sports broadcasting. Traditional networks like ESPN and FS1 are redefining their approach as viewer habits change dramatically.
Broadcasters now must be versatile across multiple platforms. The days of simply calling games have evolved into creating content for social media, podcasts, and interactive fan experiences.
According to industry analysts, the premium on distinctive announcing styles is increasing. Orsillo’s engaging personality and trademark humor fit perfectly with this trend.
| Network | Annual Sports Rights Spending | Digital Platform Investment |
|---|---|---|
| ESPN | $8.2 billion | $1.5 billion |
| FS1 | $3.7 billion | $750 million |
Play-by-play announcers with strong personal brands are becoming increasingly valuable as networks look to differentiate their broadcasts in a crowded marketplace.
Adapting to Direct-to-Consumer Streaming
The rise of direct-to-consumer streaming is reshaping how fans consume baseball. Services like MLB.TV and regional options through Fubo are giving viewers more choices than ever before.
Broadcasters like Orsillo must now adapt their style for streaming audiences who consume content differently. Shorter attention spans and multi-screen viewing require more engaging, dynamic commentary.
The Padres’ commitment to Orsillo indicates their recognition of broadcasting talent as essential to their streaming future. His ability to connect with fans translates well to these new platforms.
Regional sports networks are increasingly developing their own streaming options. The Padres’ broadcasts may eventually move primarily to a direct-to-consumer model, though Orsillo’s presence provides continuity regardless of platform.
Streaming services offer enhanced statistics and interactive features that traditional broadcasts can’t match. This creates new opportunities for announcers to integrate advanced analytics into their commentary.
Broadcast Team and Colleagues
Don Orsillo has built strong partnerships in the San Diego Padres broadcast booth since joining the team in 2016. His chemistry with colleagues creates a distinctive viewing experience for Padres fans across various broadcast platforms.
Collaboration with Analysts and Co-Hosts
Orsillo’s primary television partnership is with color analyst Mark Grant, forming one of baseball’s most entertaining broadcast duos. Their rapport features a blend of game analysis and light-hearted banter that resonates with viewers.
Before San Diego, Orsillo worked alongside Jerry Remy and Dennis Eckersley at NESN, where he honed his collaborative broadcasting style with the Red Sox from 2001-2015.
The Padres’ broadcast team extends beyond television. Jesse Agler and Tony Gwynn Jr. handle radio duties, while Eduardo Ortega leads Spanish-language broadcasts. Bob Scanlan contributes analysis across platforms.
The broadcast team delivers what fans describe as a “fun, light, classy, educational environment” that enhances the baseball experience uniquely. Orsillo’s ability to work seamlessly with different personalities remains a hallmark of his broadcasting career.
Coverage of the San Diego Padres
Don Orsillo has become the definitive voice for Padres baseball since joining the broadcast team in 2016. His distinctive play-by-play style blends detailed game analysis with moments of levity that have endeared him to San Diego fans.
Regular Season and Playoff Commentary
Orsillo’s regular season coverage for the Padres showcases his meticulous preparation and baseball knowledge. He calls approximately 150 games each season, primarily on television broadcasts but occasionally on radio.
His commentary style during Padres games balances technical analysis with accessibility for casual viewers. Orsillo doesn’t overwhelm listeners with statistics, instead focusing on the narrative of each game and player development.
When the Padres made playoff runs in recent years, Orsillo’s voice noticeably elevated with the stakes. His call of Fernando Tatis Jr.’s grand slam against the Dodgers and the team’s 2022 NLDS victory over the 111-win Dodgers have become iconic moments in Padres broadcast history.
Orsillo recently signed a contract extension with the Padres that will likely keep him as the voice of the franchise for the remainder of his broadcasting career.
Special Events and Spring Training
Beyond regular season duties, Orsillo has represented the Padres at special MLB events and provides extensive coverage of spring training from Peoria, Arizona.
His spring training broadcasts give fans early insights into roster battles, prospect development, and the team’s philosophical approach for the upcoming season. Orsillo typically calls about 15-20 spring games annually.
Orsillo has also taken on national broadcasting assignments with MLB on TBS and MLB on FOX while maintaining his Padres duties. These national appearances have further elevated his profile within baseball broadcasting circles.
During special events like MLB’s international series or commemorative games, Orsillo brings historical context and enthusiasm that enhances the viewing experience. His preparation for these one-off events mirrors his detailed approach to regular season games.
Legacy and Impact
Don Orsillo has cemented himself as one of baseball’s most beloved broadcasters through his distinctive style, humor, and deep knowledge of the game. His influence extends beyond the booth, shaping both the next generation of sports announcers and baseball’s broader cultural landscape.
Influence on Future Broadcasters
Orsillo’s broadcasting approach has become a template for aspiring sports announcers. His remarkable ability to blend professional play-by-play with genuine enthusiasm and timely humor sets him apart in the industry. Young broadcasters frequently cite his work as inspiration for their careers.
What makes Orsillo particularly influential is his authentic personality. He never manufactures excitement – instead, he reacts naturally to the game’s moments, whether dramatic or mundane. This authenticity resonates with viewers and fellow broadcasters alike.
His techniques for handling broadcast lulls during slow games have become particularly instructive for the next generation. The perfect balance he strikes between game information and entertainment keeps audiences engaged regardless of the score.
Contributions to Major League Baseball Culture
Orsillo’s impact on baseball culture extends far beyond his technical broadcasting skills. After joining the Padres in 2016, he quickly became a fan favorite in San Diego, much as he had been in Boston.
His memorable calls and on-air chemistry with broadcast partners have produced countless viral moments that transcend traditional baseball fandom. These clips introduce new audiences to the sport through his accessible, entertaining approach.
Orsillo has also championed baseball’s evolution by embracing the sport’s lighter moments. His willingness to laugh during broadcasts helps MLB shed its sometimes overly serious image, making the game more approachable for casual fans.
His return visits to Fenway Park demonstrate his enduring popularity across multiple markets, a rarity in regional broadcasting. This cross-market appeal has helped bridge fan bases and highlight baseball’s community aspects.
