Jim Deshaies – Chicago Cubs Analyst Celebrates 7th Season in Broadcasting Booth
Jim Deshaies became a familiar voice for Chicago Cubs fans when he joined the broadcast booth in 2013. The former left-handed pitcher transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting after his playing career. He brought his baseball knowledge and analytical skills to Cubs telecasts.
Currently in his 12th season calling Cubs games for Marquee Sports Network, Deshaies has established himself as one of the most respected color commentators in baseball.
Affectionately known as “J.D.” to Cubs fans, Deshaies replaced longtime announcer Bob Brenly when he accepted a four-year offer from WGN back in 2013. Before joining the Cubs broadcast team, the Massena, NY native had a 12-year playing career in the majors, pitching primarily for the Houston Astros. Standing 6’4″ and weighing 222 pounds during his playing days, Deshaies brought the same commanding presence to the broadcast booth that he once had on the mound.
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Early Life and Career
Jim Deshaies began his journey from a small New York town to the major leagues through a combination of talent, perseverance, and opportunity. His path would take him from collegiate success to becoming a respected left-handed pitcher in MLB.
Born in Massena, NY
James Joseph Deshaies was born on June 23, 1960 in Massena, New York. This small town sits on the northern border of New York state near the St. Lawrence River. Growing up in this blue-collar community helped shape Deshaies’ work ethic and approach to baseball.
The left-handed pitcher showed promise from an early age, developing the skills that would eventually take him to professional baseball. Standing 6’4″, Deshaies had the physical attributes that scouts look for in pitching prospects.
His formative years in Massena provided the foundation for his baseball career, though little else is publicly documented about his early childhood experiences or influences.
Le Moyne College
Deshaies attended Le Moyne College in Syracuse, New York, where he refined his pitching skills at the collegiate level. The small Jesuit school offered Deshaies the opportunity to showcase his talents against solid competition.
At Le Moyne, he developed his repertoire and mechanics, becoming one of the more notable pitchers in the program’s history. His collegiate performance caught the attention of major league scouts, particularly those from the Yankees organization.
The time at Le Moyne proved crucial in Deshaies’ development, allowing him to mature both as a pitcher and a person before entering professional baseball.
Draft and Minor Leagues
The New York Yankees selected Deshaies in the 21st round of the 1982 MLB Draft with the 541st overall pick. Despite being a late-round selection, Deshaies showed promise in the Yankees’ minor league system.
He progressed through the Yankees’ farm system over several seasons, working to refine his pitching approach. His professional journey took a turn when the Yankees traded him to the Houston Astros in September 1985 in exchange for veteran pitcher Joe Niekro.
This trade would prove pivotal in Deshaies’ career trajectory. Just prior to the trade, Deshaies had made his MLB debut with the Yankees on August 7, 1984. After joining the Astros, he would go on to establish himself as a reliable starter, particularly during the 1986 season when he set a major league record by striking out the first eight batters he faced in a game against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Professional Playing Career
Jim Deshaies enjoyed a 12-year Major League Baseball career spanning from 1984 to 1995. The left-handed pitcher became known for his craftiness on the mound and later translated his baseball knowledge into a successful broadcasting career.
Major League Debut
Deshaies began his professional journey when the New York Yankees selected him in the 21st round of the 1982 draft. Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 222 pounds, the Massena, NY native made his Major League debut on August 7, 1984, with the Yankees.
His time in pinstripes was brief. Deshaies appeared in only seven games for the Yankees before being traded to the Houston Astros in September 1985 as part of a package for knuckleball pitcher Joe Niekro.
This trade would prove pivotal for the young left-hander, giving him the opportunity to establish himself as a regular starter in the Major Leagues.
Houston Astros Era
Deshaies found his footing with the Houston Astros, where he spent the bulk of his career (1985-1991). His breakthrough came in 1986 when he went 12-5 with a 3.25 ERA, helping the Astros win the National League West division.
On September 23, 1986, Deshaies set a Major League record by striking out the first eight batters he faced in a game against the Los Angeles Dodgers. This remarkable achievement established a modern National League record and tied the American League mark.
During his Astros tenure, Deshaies was part of a rotation that included legendary names like Nolan Ryan and Mike Scott. While never possessing overpowering stuff, he relied on pinpoint control and changing speeds to keep hitters off balance.
| Year | Team | W-L | ERA | Games | Starts | Strikeouts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1986 | HOU | 12-5 | 3.25 | 26 | 26 | 142 |
| 1987 | HOU | 11-6 | 4.62 | 26 | 25 | 122 |
| 1989 | HOU | 15-10 | 2.91 | 33 | 33 | 153 |
Move to National League
After his productive years in Houston, Deshaies bounced around the National League. He pitched for the San Diego Padres (1992), Minnesota Twins (1993-1994), San Francisco Giants (1993), and Philadelphia Phillies (1995).
The 1992 season with San Diego saw him post a respectable 4.41 ERA in 28 starts. His stint with the Twins brought him back to the American League, where he struggled to find the same success he had enjoyed in the National League.
His final MLB appearance came with the Phillies in 1995. Throughout his journey through five different organizations, Deshaies remained a reliable back-of-rotation starter known for his durability and baseball IQ.
Record and Achievements
Deshaies finished his career with an 84-95 record, 4.14 ERA, and 1,057 strikeouts across 257 games. While these numbers may not scream Hall of Fame, they represent a solid career for a 21st-round draft pick.
His most notable achievement remains the rookie strikeout record, when he fanned eight consecutive batters to start a game. This record stood for decades as a testament to his ability to execute a game plan.
Deshaies pitched over 1,500 innings in the majors, a milestone that speaks to his consistency and resilience as a left-handed pitcher. His best season came in 1989 when he won 15 games for the Astros with a stellar 2.91 ERA.
After retiring as a player, Deshaies leveraged his baseball experience and personable nature to transition seamlessly into broadcasting, where he currently serves as a color commentator for Chicago Cubs games.
Transition to Broadcasting
Jim Deshaies moved from the pitcher’s mound to the broadcast booth in 1997, beginning a successful second career in baseball. His pitching expertise and natural wit quickly made him a fan favorite behind the microphone.
Start as an Analyst
Deshaies launched his broadcasting career with the Houston Astros in 1997, the same organization where he spent most of his playing days. The transition proved natural for the former left-hander, who brought firsthand pitching knowledge to viewers.
His initial role as color commentator allowed him to share insights about pitcher-batter matchups that few could match.
Astros fans warmed to Deshaies quickly. His ability to explain complex pitching strategies in simple terms made him valuable to the broadcast team. Within a few seasons, he established himself as one of baseball’s rising broadcasting talents.
The former pitcher wasn’t afraid to use self-deprecating humor about his playing days, often referencing his career 4.82 ERA when discussing elite pitchers.
Partnership with Bill Brown
Deshaies formed a memorable partnership with play-by-play announcer Bill Brown on Astros broadcasts. Their chemistry became a hallmark of Houston baseball for 16 seasons.
The Brown-Deshaies duo balanced thorough game analysis with entertaining banter. Their contrasting styles complemented each other perfectly – Brown provided the structured play-by-play while Deshaies added colorful insights.
During rain delays, the pair became known for their impromptu humor segments that kept viewers engaged despite the pause in action. Fans often cited their genuine friendship as part of what made Astros broadcasts special.
By the end of their run together, the Brown-Deshaies partnership had become one of the most respected broadcasting teams in baseball. Their tenure spanned Houston’s transition from the Astrodome to Minute Maid Park.
Marquee Sports Network
In 2013, Deshaies made a significant career move, joining the Chicago Cubs broadcast booth as their new color commentator. This marked his 9th season with the organization.
The transition to Chicago presented new challenges and opportunities. Deshaies needed to familiarize himself with a new team, fanbase, and broadcasting culture at Wrigley Field.
When Marquee Sports Network launched in 2020 as the exclusive home of Cubs baseball, Deshaies continued in his role. 2024 marks his 12th season calling Cubs games, establishing himself as a fixture in Chicago broadcasting.
His tenure with the Cubs has included historic moments, most notably providing analysis during the team’s drought-breaking 2016 World Series championship run. The broadcaster signed a multi-year contract extension in 2017, demonstrating the organization’s confidence in his abilities.
Broadcasting Style
Deshaies has developed a distinctive broadcasting approach that blends technical expertise with accessible humor. His style is particularly appreciated by viewers seeking deeper pitching insights.
The former pitcher excels at breaking down mound mechanics and pitch selection strategies. When a pitcher struggles with command, Deshaies often identifies specific mechanical flaws that casual fans might miss.
His humorous commentary and pitching analysis have become his trademark. Deshaies doesn’t shy away from advanced metrics, but presents them in relatable terms for all viewer knowledge levels.
Cubs fans appreciate his balanced approach – he supports the team without showing excessive bias. When umpires make controversial calls, Deshaies provides fair assessments rather than automatic defense of Cubs players.
His broadcasting toolbox includes colorful analogies about pitching that draw from his playing experience. This authentic perspective remains his greatest strength in the booth.
Cubs Commentary Career
Jim Deshaies transitioned from his playing days to become one of the most respected voices in baseball broadcasting, bringing his pitching expertise and humor to Cubs telecasts. His analytical approach and witty commentary have made him a fan favorite in the Chicago broadcast booth.
Joining the Cubs
In 2013, Deshaies joined the Chicago Cubs broadcast team. He accepted a four-year contract with WGN to serve as the color commentator. He replaced longtime announcer Bob Brenly, who had departed the booth after eight seasons.
Prior to coming to Chicago, Deshaies had built his broadcasting reputation with the Houston Astros. He served as a color analyst for 16 years following his playing career. The move to Chicago represented a significant step up in market size and visibility.
The Cubs organization brought Deshaies aboard during a transformative period. The Theo Epstein-led front office was building what would eventually become a championship team. His baseball knowledge and ability to explain pitching mechanics made him an ideal fit for a team focusing on developing young talent.
Working with Len Kasper and Jon Sciambi
Deshaies formed a memorable partnership with play-by-play announcer Len Kasper from 2013-2020. The pair developed outstanding chemistry, with Kasper’s straight-man approach complementing “JD’s” more humorous style. Their broadcasts balanced statistical analysis with entertaining banter.
When Kasper departed for the White Sox radio booth after the 2020 season, Deshaies began working alongside Jon “Boog” Sciambi. The transition to Marquee Sports Network, the Cubs’ dedicated channel launched in 2020, coincided with this booth change.
The Deshaies-Sciambi partnership quickly found its rhythm. Both brought substantial baseball knowledge and broadcasting experience. Their conversations often blend advanced analytics with traditional baseball wisdom, reflecting the evolution of how fans consume the game.
| Deshaies Broadcasting Partners | Years | Network |
|---|---|---|
| Len Kasper | 2013-2020 | WGN/NBC Sports Chicago/Marquee |
| Jon “Boog” Sciambi | 2021-Present | Marquee Sports Network |
Cubs’ Memorable Games
Deshaies had the privilege of calling numerous significant moments in recent Cubs history. Most notably, he provided analysis throughout the team’s historic 2016 season, which culminated in their first World Series championship since 1908.
His pitching expertise proved particularly valuable during the Cubs’ playoff runs. He offered insights into the pressure situations faced by hurlers in October. Deshaies’ ability to explain complex pitching strategies in accessible terms enhanced viewers’ understanding of crucial moments.
At Wrigley Field, Deshaies has witnessed remarkable individual performances, including no-hitter bids, walk-off victories, and milestone achievements. His enthusiasm during Jake Arrieta’s 2015 no-hitter and various Kyle Schwarber postseason home runs captured the excitement of these moments.
Deshaies’ commentary during the Cubs’ competitive window from 2015-2020 helped frame one of the most successful periods in franchise history for television audiences.
Relationship with Fans
Deshaies has cultivated a strong connection with Cubs fans through his accessible style and self-deprecating humor. He frequently references his own playing career with appropriate modesty, often joking about his limited hitting ability during his 12 major league seasons.
Social media has amplified his reach, with many of his more humorous observations becoming popular among Cubs Twitter users. Fans particularly appreciate his ability to keep broadcasts entertaining during challenging seasons or lopsided games.
His knowledge of Wrigley Field’s unique characteristics has helped him connect with the passionate Cubs fanbase. Deshaies often incorporates Chicago references and acknowledges the team’s deep history.
By 2025, Deshaies has become firmly entrenched as a Cubs broadcasting institution, with his commentary style evolving alongside the changing media landscape while maintaining the fundamentals that made him successful.
Impact and Legacy
Jim Deshaies has left an indelible mark on baseball broadcasting since joining the Chicago Cubs television booth in 2013. His distinctive style combines technical pitching knowledge with accessible humor that resonates with fans of all levels.
Influence on Sports Commentary
Deshaies revolutionized baseball commentary by bringing a pitcher’s perspective to the booth. After accepting a four-year offer from WGN to replace Bob Brenly, “JD” quickly established himself as a fan favorite. His approach balances analytical depth with conversational accessibility.
What separates Deshaies from many commentators is his ability to explain complex pitching concepts to casual viewers. He developed this skill during his previous broadcasting stint with the Houston Astros from 1997-2012.
The 2021 season marked his ninth year calling Cubs games, demonstrating remarkable longevity in a competitive field. His commentary style has influenced a generation of baseball broadcasters who now incorporate more technical analysis with approachable delivery.
Philanthropy and Community Involvement
Deshaies has been actively involved in several charitable initiatives throughout Chicago. He regularly participates in Cubs Charities events, leveraging his visibility to raise funds for youth baseball programs in underserved communities.
His most notable philanthropic work includes supporting ALS research, a cause close to baseball due to Lou Gehrig’s legacy. Deshaies participates in annual ALS awareness campaigns, helping raise substantial donations through broadcasting marathons and special events.
In The Woodlands, Texas, where he maintains connections, Deshaies has supported local youth sports development. His community involvement extends beyond financial contributions to include mentorship programs for aspiring sports commentators and journalists.
Recognition and Awards
Deshaies has received significant recognition for his broadcasting excellence. While not in the Baseball Hall of Fame as a player, his commentary work has earned him multiple regional Emmy nominations for sports analysis.
| Year | Award | Organization |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | Best Color Commentary | Illinois Broadcasters Association |
| 2018 | Excellence in Sports Broadcasting | Chicago Sports Media Awards |
| 2022 | Fan Favorite Broadcaster | Cubs Fan Choice Awards |
His contract details reflect his value to Cubs broadcasts. Industry insiders report his current agreement pays approximately $800,000 annually, placing him among the higher-paid regional sports commentators.
The humorous commentary and insightful pitching analysis that define his broadcasting approach have made him a beloved figure among Cubs fans, who regularly cite him as a primary reason they enjoy watching games on television.
Off the Field
Beyond the broadcast booth, Jim Deshaies has cultivated a rich life that spans personal interests, community involvement, and media work. His engaging personality and baseball knowledge have made him a beloved figure in Chicago and throughout the baseball world.
Personal Life and Interests
James Joseph “Jim” Deshaies maintains a relatively private personal life despite his public persona. The former pitcher turned broadcaster has been married to his wife Lori for many years, and they have raised two daughters.
Deshaies has a well-known passion for golf during the baseball off-season. His dry wit often appears on social media, particularly Twitter, where he comments on baseball, travel, and everyday observations with his characteristic humor.
He’s maintained connections to Houston, where he spent most of his playing career, while embracing Chicago since joining the Cubs broadcast team in 2013. Deshaies is known for his self-deprecating humor and often jokes about his playing days with the Chicago Cubs and other MLB teams.
Engagement with Baseball Community
Deshaies has remained deeply connected to the baseball community since retiring as a player. He regularly participates in Cubs charity events and baseball clinics throughout Chicago.
His broadcasting role has allowed him to become a baseball ambassador. Since joining the Cubs in 2013, Deshaies has been a fixture at team events and fan festivals. He frequently interacts with fans before games at Wrigley Field, signing autographs and sharing stories.
Deshaies also stays connected with the Houston baseball community where he spent many years as an Astros commentator. He occasionally appears as a guest speaker at baseball conventions and events throughout the country, sharing insights on pitching and the evolution of broadcasting in baseball.
| Broadcast Career | Years | Network |
|---|---|---|
| Houston Astros | 1997-2012 | Fox Sports Houston |
| Chicago Cubs | 2013-present | Marquee Sports Network |
Other Media Appearances
Beyond game broadcasts, Deshaies has expanded his media footprint with various appearances.
He makes regular guest spots on Chicago sports radio shows. During the season, he offers analysis and provides hot stove insights during the winter.
Deshaies has appeared on MLB Network programming as a guest analyst during playoff coverage. His articulate explanations of pitching mechanics and strategy have made him a valuable contributor to baseball discussions.
He’s occasionally branched out to discuss other sports as well. During the MLB off-season, he particularly focuses on college basketball. His podcast appearances showcase his breadth of sports knowledge beyond baseball.
Deshaies continues to adapt to the changing media landscape. He engages with fans through social media and participates in the Cubs’ digital content initiatives. His versatility and personable communication style have made him a valuable media personality beyond just his primary broadcasting role.
