Matt Underwood – Cleveland Guardians Broadcaster Enters 25th Season in the Booth
When you tune into a Cleveland Guardians game, the familiar voice of Matt Underwood guides you through every pitch, hit, and play. Underwood has been the soundtrack to Cleveland baseball for nearly a quarter century. His distinctive style and deep knowledge of the game have made him a fixture in Cleveland sports broadcasting since he joined the organization.
Underwood began his journey with the Cleveland baseball franchise in 2000 and has now completed 24 seasons calling games. Before taking over the television play-by-play duties 17 years ago, he worked in various broadcasting roles, including as a producer, reporter, anchor, and sports director. His steady presence in the booth alongside his broadcast partners has provided continuity for fans through the team’s transition from the Indians to the Guardians.
Beyond the broadcast booth, Underwood maintains connections with fans through his social media presence as @mattu12cle on X and @mattyu12 on Instagram. With over 11,000 followers on X alone, his insights extend beyond game day, giving fans a deeper connection to the team they love. His longevity with the organization speaks to both his talents as a broadcaster and his dedication to Cleveland baseball.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Matt Underwood’s journey to becoming the voice of Cleveland Guardians baseball began in small-town Ohio and continued through his college education, where he developed the skills that would later define his broadcasting career.
Hometown Roots in Ashland
Born on May 10, 1968, in Zanesville, Ohio, Matt Underwood moved with his family to Ashland at the age of 4. This small Ohio town would shape his formative years and spark his passion for sports.
At Ashland High School, Underwood immersed himself in athletics. He lettered three years in track and field, demonstrating both athletic ability and dedication.
The local sports scene in Ashland provided Underwood with his first exposure to broadcasting. Those early experiences watching and participating in local sports events planted the seeds for what would eventually grow into a distinguished broadcasting career.
Academic Pursuits at Baldwin-Wallace College
Underwood continued his educational journey at Baldwin-Wallace College (now Baldwin-Wallace University). The school, located in Berea, Ohio, offered him the perfect environment to develop his communication skills.
During his college years, Underwood focused on building the foundation for his future media career. Baldwin-Wallace’s communications program provided him with opportunities to learn broadcasting fundamentals and gain practical experience.
His college experience went beyond the classroom. Underwood actively participated in campus media outlets, where he began honing his distinctive broadcasting style and voice that would later become familiar to Cleveland baseball fans.
These formative educational experiences prepared Underwood for his eventual role as the play-by-play announcer for Cleveland baseball, a position he would hold for decades.
Broadcasting Career
Matt Underwood’s broadcasting journey spans over two decades with the Cleveland baseball organization. His distinctive voice has become synonymous with Cleveland baseball for fans across Northeast Ohio.
Early Days in Radio Broadcasting
Underwood cut his teeth in the broadcasting world through radio. Before becoming the voice of Cleveland baseball, he honed his craft as a radio professional, developing the skills that would later define his career.
He worked at various radio stations, including a stint with ABC Radio, where he learned the fundamentals of sports broadcasting. During this time, Underwood developed his distinctive play-by-play style that fans would later recognize.
His radio background provided the perfect foundation for his later television work. The intimacy of radio—painting pictures with words—translated well to his eventual TV commentary.
Underwood’s early radio days taught him how to capture the excitement of live sports events through voice alone—a skill that remains evident in his work today.
Transition to Television
Underwood made his move to television at WEWS-TV 5, where he served in multiple roles. He worked as a producer, reporter, anchor, and eventually Sports Director before leaving in 2000 to join the Cleveland Indians organization.
This versatile background in TV news prepared him for the demands of live sports broadcasting. His experience in different production roles gave him unique insight into the technical aspects of sports television.
The transition from general sports reporting to baseball-specific broadcasting allowed Underwood to focus his talents. He developed a deep knowledge of baseball that enriched his commentary.
His television career demonstrated his adaptability and comprehensive understanding of sports media. These qualities would serve him well when he joined the Cleveland baseball broadcast team.
Cleveland Guardians’ Broadcast Team
Underwood is now in his 24th season as a broadcaster for the Cleveland organization, with 2023 marking his 17th year in the TV booth as the play-by-play announcer.
His tenure has spanned the team’s transition from the Indians to the Guardians name in 2022. Throughout this change, Underwood’s voice remained a constant for fans.
He has called games on multiple networks as the team’s broadcast rights have evolved—from SportsTime Ohio to Fox Sports Ohio to the current Bally Sports Great Lakes.
Underwood has witnessed countless memorable moments in Cleveland baseball history, including multiple playoff runs and the 2016 World Series appearance.
| Season | Network | Role | Partner |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2007-2012 | SportsTime Ohio | TV Play-by-Play | Rick Manning |
| 2013-2020 | Fox Sports Ohio | TV Play-by-Play | Rick Manning |
| 2021-Present | Bally Sports Great Lakes | TV Play-by-Play | Rick Manning |
Working Alongside Rick Manning
Underwood and color commentator Rick Manning have formed one of Major League Baseball’s most enduring broadcast partnerships. The duo has worked together for 11 straight years, creating consistent chemistry in the broadcast booth.
Manning, a former Cleveland outfielder, complements Underwood’s play-by-play expertise with analytical insights from a player’s perspective. Their contrasting backgrounds create a balanced broadcast experience.
The partnership works because both respect each other’s strengths. Underwood handles the rhythm and flow of the game call, while Manning provides the technical analysis and player insights.
Their longevity together has allowed them to develop the natural rapport that defines great broadcasting teams. Viewers benefit from their shared history and accumulated knowledge of Cleveland baseball.
Along with field reporter Andre Knott, they form a broadcast team that effectively combines game analysis with insider information and storytelling.
Roles and Contributions
Matt Underwood has established himself as a cornerstone of Cleveland Guardians broadcasts, bringing the game to fans through his distinctive play-by-play narration and deep knowledge of baseball. His career spans decades of dedicated service to Cleveland baseball.
The Voice of Major League Baseball
As the television play-by-play announcer for the Cleveland Guardians, Underwood brings games to life with his distinctive voice and analytical insights. His broadcasting journey began at WEWS-TV5, where he worked for 17 years and served as sports director from 1997-1999.
In 2000, Underwood made the pivotal move to the Cleveland Indians (now Guardians) broadcast team. The 2023 season marked his 19th year as the primary play-by-play announcer for the team’s television broadcasts.
His professional approach carries through even during challenging times, such as the MLB labor disputes, when he noted, “Our job is to show up every day and prepare to do a game.”
Key Moments and Memorable Calls
Underwood’s voice has become synonymous with many iconic moments in recent Cleveland baseball history. His excited calls during the team’s 2016 American League Championship run and World Series appearance captured the electricity of that historic season.
His broadcasting style blends technical baseball knowledge with genuine enthusiasm that resonates with fans. Underwood frequently engages with the community, including scheduled appearances like the upcoming Q&A session in Youngstown on January 7, 2025, alongside colleague Jim Rosenhaus.
Working with various color commentators over his tenure, Underwood has maintained consistency in the broadcast booth while adapting to different broadcasting partners and evolving team dynamics.
Personal Life
Beyond the broadcast booth, Matt Underwood has built a fulfilling personal life with his family while maintaining strong ties to the Cleveland community.
Family and Relationships
Matt Underwood married his wife, Shelley, in 1994. Their partnership has spanned nearly three decades, providing a stable foundation for his broadcasting career. The couple lives in Avon Lake with their family.
The Underwoods are proud parents of two children: Max and Devan. Matt has often credited his family’s support as crucial to his professional success.
Family time remains a priority for Underwood despite the demanding travel schedule of baseball broadcasting. The announcer has balanced his 24+ seasons with the Guardians organization while maintaining a strong home life.
His family occasionally makes appearances at Cleveland games, showing their support for both Matt and the team he’s dedicated his career to covering.
Engagement with the Community
Underwood demonstrates consistent involvement with Northeast Ohio communities beyond his broadcasting duties. His connection to the region runs deep, as evidenced by his induction into the Ashland County Sports Hall of Fame in 2010.
Matt frequently participates in Guardians community initiatives, using his platform to support various charitable causes throughout Cleveland. His visibility as the play-by-play announcer for Bally Sports gives him opportunities to make meaningful community connections.
He’s appeared on local media beyond game broadcasts, including guest spots on podcasts like 3News’ Love in the Land, where he discusses his passion for baseball and connection to Cleveland.
Underwood often serves as an ambassador for the Guardians at public events, helping strengthen the bond between the team and its fans throughout Ohio.
Significant Achievements
Matt Underwood has established himself as a respected voice in Cleveland baseball over his long career. His work has earned him both formal recognition and a place in fans’ hearts for his calls during crucial moments in Guardians history.
Awards and Recognition
Matt Underwood has received several honors throughout his broadcasting career. He was inducted into the Baldwin Wallace University Athletic Hall of Fame, recognizing his contributions to sports media after graduating from the institution in 1990.
The Ohio Broadcasters Hall of Fame has also acknowledged Underwood’s excellent work in regional sports broadcasting. His longevity with the Cleveland organization speaks volumes about his talent and professionalism.
Before joining the Guardians’ broadcast team, Underwood earned multiple Emmy Awards for his work at WEWS-TV in Cleveland, where he served in various roles including Producer, Reporter, Anchor, and Sports Director.
Notable Broadcasts
Underwood has been the television play-by-play announcer for Cleveland since the 2000 MLB season, calling numerous significant games. His voice became synonymous with the team’s 2016 World Series run, where his emotional calls during their American League Championship victory created lasting memories for fans.
The 22-game winning streak in 2017 featured some of Underwood’s most passionate broadcasting. His call of Jay Bruce’s walk-off hit to secure win number 22 is particularly memorable.
Underwood, along with color analyst Rick Manning and field reporter Andre Knott, has formed a broadcast team that’s now in their 11th consecutive season together calling Guardians games. The trio’s chemistry and consistency have made them fixtures in Cleveland households.
Behind the Scenes
Matt Underwood’s role as the voice of Cleveland Guardians baseball extends far beyond what fans hear during broadcasts. His preparation and teamwork with colleagues are essential components of delivering quality game coverage.
Preparation for the Regular Season
Matt Underwood’s pre-season routine is impressively thorough. During spring training, he typically spends 3-4 hours daily reviewing player statistics, roster changes, and team developments.
“You can’t fake preparation in this business,” Underwood once noted during an interview.
He creates detailed player cards with key statistics and personal anecdotes that he can reference during broadcasts. These include both Guardians players and opponents.
His preparation also involves meeting with managers and players for off-record conversations that provide insight beyond what appears in press releases.
Since joining the Guardians broadcast team in 2007, Underwood has maintained a consistent system of cataloging game notes and historical references that he updates throughout the year.
Collaboration with Co-Commentators
Underwood has built remarkable chemistry with longtime color analyst Rick Manning and field reporter Andre Knott. The trio has worked together for 11 consecutive seasons, creating one of baseball’s most cohesive broadcast teams.
Their pre-game routine includes a production meeting where they discuss storylines and focal points for that day’s broadcast.
Manning provides the analytical perspective while Underwood handles play-by-play duties, creating a balanced presentation for viewers.
Broadcast Team Tenure
| Name | Role | Years with Guardians |
|---|---|---|
| Matt Underwood | Play-by-Play | 18 (since 2007) |
| Rick Manning | Color Analyst | 34 |
| Andre Knott | Field Reporter | 11 |
Working closely with the sports production team, Underwood helps identify compelling camera angles and graphics to enhance the viewing experience. His collaboration extends to radio broadcasts, where he occasionally makes crossover appearances.
Off the Air
Matt Underwood’s commitment to sports broadcasting extends beyond his duties with the Cleveland Guardians. His passion for sports has led him to become involved in both high school football and college basketball in significant ways.
High School Football Advocacy
Underwood has maintained strong ties to Ohio high school football throughout his broadcasting career. After starting his career at local station WEWS-TV5, he developed a reputation for championing prep sports in the region.
His involvement includes regular appearances at high school championship games and fundraising events for athletic programs across Northeast Ohio. Underwood often volunteers his time to mentor young sportscasters interested in covering prep football.
In recent years, he has helped organize broadcasting workshops for high school students. These programs provide hands-on experience with game day production techniques.
“High school football represents the grassroots of American sports culture,” Underwood noted during a 2023 interview. His advocacy has helped increase coverage of prep football throughout Cleveland’s surrounding communities.
Involvement in College Basketball
College basketball holds special significance for Underwood, who has contributed to regional coverage of NCAA tournaments and regular season matchups. His expertise in basketball broadcasting complements his primary role with the Guardians.
Underwood has served as a guest commentator for several Ohio collegiate programs during baseball’s off-season. His analytical approach translates well to basketball coverage, where he provides thoughtful insights on game strategy.
He participates annually in charity basketball events benefiting athletic scholarships at Ohio universities. These fundraisers typically feature exhibition games with local celebrities and former college stars.
Underwood’s college basketball work includes:
| Season | Event/Role | Institution |
|---|---|---|
| 2022-23 | Guest Analyst | Kent State |
| 2023-24 | Tournament Coverage | MAC Conference |
| 2024-25 | Charity Basketball Classic | Host |
His basketball commentary draws on the same detailed preparation that marks his Guardians broadcasts, creating continuity for Cleveland sports fans year-round.
Legacy and Influence
Matt Underwood’s impact on Cleveland baseball extends far beyond the broadcast booth. His distinctive voice and storytelling ability have made him an integral part of the Guardians’ identity while inspiring a new generation of sportscasters.
Impact on Aspiring Sportscasters
Underwood’s journey from Ashland High School to becoming the voice of Cleveland baseball serves as a blueprint for aspiring broadcasters throughout Ohio. His meticulous preparation and encyclopedic knowledge of the game demonstrate the level of professionalism required to succeed in sports broadcasting.
Young broadcasters frequently cite Underwood’s ability to paint a vivid picture of the action while maintaining composure during high-pressure moments. His mentorship programs with local universities have created pathways for students interested in sports media careers.
“The key is authenticity,” Underwood often tells broadcasting students. “Fans can tell when you’re genuinely passionate about the team and the game.”
Contributions to the Guardians’ Community
Underwood’s influence extends well beyond game calls. Since joining the Cleveland broadcast team in 2000, he has become a fixture at community events and charity fundraisers throughout Northeast Ohio.
His annual broadcasting camp raises significant funds for youth baseball programs in underserved Cleveland neighborhoods. The initiative has helped refurbish dozens of baseball diamonds and provided equipment to thousands of young players.
Underwood frequently partners with Guardians players for hospital visits and community service projects. His “Voices for Veterans” program, which highlights military service members at home games, has become one of the most beloved traditions at Progressive Field.
| Community Initiative | Impact |
|---|---|
| Youth Broadcasting Camp | Raised $750,000+ since inception |
| Field Renovation Project | 35 diamonds refurbished |
| Voices for Veterans | Honored 500+ service members |
Frequently Asked Questions
Fans often have questions about Matt Underwood’s broadcasting approach and his interaction with the Cleveland Guardians community. His distinctive style and social media presence have become familiar aspects of the Guardians’ viewing experience.
Matt Underwood’s Broadcasting Style
Matt Underwood has developed a recognizable broadcasting style during his tenure with the Cleveland Guardians (formerly Indians). His play-by-play approach balances technical baseball knowledge with conversational commentary.
Many viewers appreciate the natural banter between Underwood and color commentator Rick Manning, which often feels like “listening to a conversation between two guys who know their baseball.”
Underwood’s career path prepared him well for his current role. Before joining the Guardians’ broadcast team, he worked in various media positions including Producer, Reporter, Anchor, and Sports Director before moving to baseball play-by-play in 2000.
His broadcasting style features:
- Clear game descriptions
- Historical context for plays and players
- Occasional humor and personal anecdotes
- Traditional play-by-play cadence
Engagement with Fans on Social Media
Underwood has embraced fan engagement beyond the broadcast booth. He participates in community events like the Q&A session held in Youngstown alongside colleague Jim Rosenhaus.
On platforms like Facebook, fans discuss Underwood’s broadcasts and commentary style. Some viewers have noted his habit of saying “Watch Out” during foul balls. This sparked lighthearted discussion about broadcast conventions.
The broadcaster also participates in community conversations through 3News social channels, discussing topics related to Cleveland and baseball.
Underwood’s engagement approach includes participating in fan Q&A events, community outreach appearances, discussing baseball developments, and representing the Guardians organization in media contexts.
