Kelsey Wingert Colorado Rockies Reporter Celebrates Three Years Covering MLB Team
Kelsey Wingert has become a familiar face for baseball fans in Denver as the Colorado Rockies field reporter. After previously covering the Atlanta Braves, Wingert now reports on approximately 100 Rockies games each season for AT&T Sports Networks. She brings viewers closer to the action with her pre-game and post-game interviews. Her dedication to baseball coverage was highlighted in 2022 when she bravely returned to broadcasting after suffering a serious injury. She was struck by a foul ball while working near the dugout.
Beyond her regular season duties with the Rockies, Wingert has expanded her media presence through work with Jomboy Media and MLB.tv. The LSU alumna brings a blend of professionalism and personal connection to her broadcasts. She has built strong relationships with players and coaches that translate into insightful coverage for viewers. Her journey from Atlanta to the Rocky Mountain region has added a respected voice to Colorado’s sports broadcasting landscape.
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Early Life and Career Beginnings
Kelsey Wingert’s journey to becoming a prominent sports reporter began long before she joined the Colorado Rockies. Her foundation in sports media was built through dedicated academic pursuits and early professional experiences.
High School and Education
Wingert’s passion for sports journalism took root during her high school years in Texas. She showed early promise in communication and media studies, participating in school broadcast programs that helped develop her on-camera presence.
After high school, Wingert continued her education at Louisiana State University (LSU), where she earned her degree in broadcast journalism. The SEC powerhouse provided an ideal training ground for her sports reporting ambitions.
At LSU, she gained valuable experience working with the university’s sports media department. There, she covered Tigers athletics and built a foundation of knowledge in sports reporting techniques.
Entry into Sports Broadcasting
Wingert’s professional career began shortly after graduating from LSU. She quickly established herself in the competitive world of sports broadcasting, landing a position with FOX Sports South and FOX Sports Southeast in Atlanta.
In this role, Wingert covered Atlanta Braves baseball as a reporter and host. Her work at FOX Sports demonstrated her ability to conduct insightful interviews, deliver concise game analysis, and connect with viewers.
By age 26, Wingert had already made significant strides in her career, establishing herself as a rising talent in sports media. Her early work featured a blend of sideline reporting, pre-game coverage, and player interviews that showcased her knowledge and professional demeanor.
This early experience with baseball coverage proved invaluable, preparing her for her future role with the Colorado Rockies organization.
Kelsey Wingert with the Atlanta Braves
Before joining the Colorado Rockies broadcast team, Kelsey Wingert established herself as a respected sports reporter during her time with the Atlanta Braves. Her work in Atlanta helped build her reputation in baseball broadcasting circles.
Role with Fox Sports South
Kelsey Wingert served as the sideline reporter and host for Atlanta Braves telecasts on Fox Sports South from 2016 to 2019. She covered approximately 140 games each season while handling both reporting and hosting duties for the network.
During her tenure, Wingert became a familiar face to Braves fans, conducting pre-game interviews, delivering in-game reports, and providing post-game analysis. Her coverage spanned several notable seasons for the franchise, including the team’s rebuild and eventual return to playoff contention.
When not covering baseball, Wingert expanded her portfolio by reporting on ACC Football during the MLB offseason, demonstrating her versatility as a sports journalist.
Transition to the Rockies Broadcast Team
Wingert’s departure from the Braves came somewhat unexpectedly after the 2019 season when Fox Sports South opted not to renew her contract. This decision surprised many fans who had grown accustomed to her presence on Braves broadcasts.
After leaving Atlanta, Wingert took the next step in her career by joining the Colorado Rockies broadcast team as a field reporter and television host. She currently covers the Rockies for MLB.tv during the baseball season.
The transition allowed Wingert to continue her baseball reporting career while expanding her national profile. She has also extended her media presence by working with Jomboy Media, a popular sports content platform, further cementing her status in baseball media circles.
The Colorado Rockies Era
Kelsey Wingert’s career took a significant turn when she joined the Colorado Rockies broadcast team, bringing her energetic reporting style and baseball knowledge to the Denver market. Her work at Coors Field quickly established her as a fan favorite while expanding her professional portfolio in sports broadcasting.
Joining AT&T SportsNet Rocky Mountain
Wingert became a TV host and field reporter for the Colorado Rockies after previously covering the Atlanta Braves. Her transition to AT&T SportsNet Rocky Mountain marked a new chapter in her career, allowing her to build on her baseball reporting experience in a different market.
The move to Denver came with new challenges and opportunities as she adapted to covering the National League West. Wingert’s background covering the Braves provided her with a solid foundation of MLB knowledge that translated well to her Rockies coverage.
Her hiring was part of AT&T SportsNet’s effort to enhance their broadcast team with engaging talent who could connect with viewers both at Coors Field and watching from home.
Contributions to Rockies Broadcasts
Wingert’s role with the Rockies extends beyond standard reporting. She provides in-depth player interviews, game analysis, and behind-the-scenes features that give fans unique insights into the team.
Her work can be seen on MLB.tv during the baseball season, where she delivers comprehensive coverage of the Colorado Rockies. Wingert’s reporting style balances technical baseball knowledge with accessible presentation.
Unfortunately, Wingert experienced a frightening incident when she was struck in the head by a 95 MPH line drive while reporting. She showed remarkable resilience, recovering from the injury and returning to her broadcasting duties.
Fan Engagement and Popularity
Wingert has cultivated a strong following among Rockies fans through her approachable demeanor and interactive social media presence. She regularly engages with the Denver community, building rapport with the local fanbase.
Her Instagram and Twitter accounts provide additional content for fans, featuring behind-the-scenes looks at Coors Field and the Rockies organization. This multi-platform approach has helped her connect with younger demographics that consume sports content across various media.
Beyond her Rockies duties, Wingert has expanded her reach by working with Jomboy Media, a popular baseball content platform. This collaboration has increased her visibility in the baseball community nationwide.
On-Field Incident
Kelsey Wingert’s career as a Colorado Rockies reporter took a dramatic turn when she suffered a serious injury while covering a game. The incident highlighted the risks faced by on-field personnel and sparked an outpouring of support from the baseball community.
Foul Ball Injury
On May 16, 2022, Wingert was struck by a 95 mph line drive off the bat of San Francisco Giants’ Austin Slater during a game at Coors Field. The frightening incident occurred while she was positioned in an unprotected area near the home dugout, working in what’s known as the camera well.
The foul ball struck Wingert directly in the forehead, causing immediate concern among players and staff. This wasn’t Wingert’s first encounter with an errant baseball; she previously suffered a broken right eye socket in 2018 when a foul ball from Philadelphia Phillies’ Odubel Herrera struck her while she was covering the Atlanta Braves.
Game Details When Injury Occurred:
| Teams | Date | Batter | Ball Speed | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rockies vs. Giants | May 16, 2022 | Austin Slater | 95 mph | Coors Field |
Medical Interventions
Wingert was immediately transported to a nearby hospital following the impact. Medical professionals determined she required both internal and external stitches to properly close the wound on her forehead.
The injury assessment revealed the severity of the impact, though fortunately Wingert avoided more serious complications like fractures or significant internal bleeding that can sometimes result from high-velocity impacts. The medical team worked efficiently to stabilize her condition.
Two days after the incident, Wingert shared an update saying she was “hanging in there”, demonstrating her resilience despite the traumatic experience. Her medical treatment represented the standard protocol for high-velocity impact injuries, with careful monitoring for potential delayed symptoms.
Community Support and Recovery
The baseball community rallied around Wingert following her injury. Players, fans, and media colleagues sent messages of support and prayers for her speedy recovery through social media and other channels.
Wingert expressed deep gratitude for the overwhelming support, posting updates about her recovery progress on social media. Her transparent communication about the incident helped raise awareness about safety concerns for media personnel working in proximity to live play.
In a testament to her dedication, Wingert made a triumphant return to the Rockies broadcast after recovery. Her comeback was celebrated by colleagues and fans alike, with many noting her professionalism in the face of such a frightening experience.
The incident prompted renewed discussions about safety measures for reporters and camera operators working in vulnerable positions at baseball stadiums, potentially influencing future protective protocols throughout MLB venues.
Impact and Legacy
Kelsey Wingert’s journey with the Colorado Rockies has left a significant mark on sports broadcasting and player safety discussions. Her resilience after a frightening injury helped spark important conversations across Major League Baseball.
Influence on Sports Broadcasting
Wingert has carved out a distinctive place in baseball broadcasting through her work with the Colorado Rockies. As a TV host and field reporter, she brings an authentic approach to sideline reporting that resonates with fans.
Her return to broadcasting after suffering a serious injury demonstrated remarkable professionalism. Wingert didn’t just come back – she turned a frightening moment into an opportunity to connect more deeply with viewers and players alike.
The incident humanized the role of reporters in ways fans rarely see. By sharing her recovery journey publicly, Wingert broke down barriers between media professionals and audiences.
Her dual presence on Rockies broadcasts and Jomboy Media has expanded her influence beyond regional coverage to national baseball conversations.
Safety Discussions in MLB
Wingert’s injury became a catalyst for renewed safety discussions throughout baseball. When she was struck in the forehead by a foul ball while working in an unprotected area near the dugout, it highlighted vulnerable areas in stadiums.
The incident, involving a 95 mph line drive, prompted immediate conversations about extending protective netting and creating safer working environments for broadcast personnel.
Many teams accelerated reviews of their press areas and camera positions following her injury. The Rockies, in particular, made several adjustments to protect media members stationed near the field.
Wingert’s return to broadcasting after recovery became a powerful moment that spotlighted the dangers faced by on-field personnel who aren’t players.
Her experience has influenced MLB’s ongoing safety evaluations, particularly regarding areas where broadcasters and reporters position themselves during games.
Personal Life
Kelsey Wingert-Linch balances her professional baseball reporting career with a rich personal life that spans from her Texas roots to her current connections in Denver.
Interests Outside of Baseball
Beyond the diamond, Wingert stays connected with fans through various media platforms. She’s active on Instagram where she shares glimpses of her life both on and off the field. Her faith forms an important part of her identity, something she references in her social media bio with the phrase “My sin was great, His love was greater.”
As a proud LSU alum, Wingert maintains strong ties to her collegiate roots. Her educational background in Broadcast Journalism with a focus on Sports has served as the foundation for her successful reporting career.
Wingert has also expanded her media presence by appearing on Jomboy Media, broadening her reach beyond traditional baseball coverage.
Public Personal Events
Wingert’s personal life made headlines when she married Casey Linch shortly after a frightening incident where she was struck by a foul ball. The wedding demonstrated her resilience during a challenging time.
Originally from Sugar Land, Texas, Wingert now splits her time between Acworth, Georgia and her work in Denver with the Rockies.
Most recently, Wingert has embraced motherhood while maintaining her professional commitments. She described the 2023 MLB season as “the most challenging & rewarding season” of her career as she worked a full MLB schedule while expecting.
The balance between her growing family and demanding career showcases Wingert’s dedication to both her personal and professional lives.
Online Presence and Fan Interaction
Kelsey Wingert-Linch has built a strong digital connection with Colorado Rockies fans through consistent engagement across multiple platforms. Her authentic approach and behind-the-scenes content have made her a favorite among the team’s fanbase.
Social Media Activities
Wingert maintains an active presence across major social media channels. On Instagram (@kelswingert), she identifies herself as a “TV host & field reporter @rockies” and mentions her work with Jomboy Media. Her profile also reflects her faith with the phrase “My sin was great, His love was greater” and acknowledges her LSU alma mater.
On Twitter (X), Wingert shares similar professional identifiers, emphasizing her dual bases in Atlanta and Denver. This platform serves as a primary channel for her real-time game insights and team updates.
Her LinkedIn profile further showcases her professional experience as a freelance sideline reporter. She has expertise spanning MLB, NBA, NHL, and college sports.
Engagement with Followers
Wingert’s interaction style with fans stands out for its authenticity and accessibility. She frequently responds to fan questions about the Rockies and shares behind-the-scenes moments from broadcasts and team activities.
Reddit discussions reveal that fans appreciate her reporting style. After her move to Colorado, one Braves fan commented: “She’s a really fun personality and a great field reporter.”
Her role has become even more significant as she’s part of the core broadcasting team that includes Drew Goodman, Jeff Huson, and others during a challenging time for local sports journalism in Denver.
Wingert often conducts informal polls and Q&A sessions. This creates an interactive experience that helps bridge the gap between the team and its supporters.
