Mike Claiborne – St. Louis Cardinals Broadcaster Celebrates 20 Years Behind the Mic
Mike Claiborne has become a legendary voice in St. Louis sports broadcasting, particularly known for his work with the Cardinals. His career spans decades, covering seven St. Louis Cardinals World Series appearances including the championship years of 1982, 2006, and 2011. Claiborne’s contributions to sports broadcasting were formally recognized when he was inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame in 2021 and the Missouri Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame in 2024.
Beyond the broadcast booth, Claiborne brings a unique perspective as a former multi-sport athlete from St. Louis’ DeAndreis High School. He currently serves as part of the Cardinals’ broadcasting team, where his insights and voice have become familiar to generations of fans. His work extends into the community as well, contributing to the Cardinals’ school programs and various outreach initiatives.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Mike Claiborne’s roots run deep in St. Louis, Missouri, where his early experiences shaped his future broadcasting career. His athletic background and education provided a foundation for his later success in sports media.
DeAndreis High School
Mike Claiborne was born and raised in St. Louis, establishing his lifelong connection to the city’s sports scene. At DeAndreis High School in St. Louis, Claiborne distinguished himself as a
Broadcasting Career
Mike Claiborne has become a fixture in St. Louis sports broadcasting since the early 1980s, building a versatile career that spans radio, television, and digital media. His distinctive voice and deep knowledge of sports have made him a trusted source for Cardinals fans across multiple platforms.
KMOX Radio
Claiborne’s broadcasting journey began at the legendary KMOX Radio in February 1981. This iconic radio station served as his home base for covering St. Louis sports for many years. At KMOX, he started by co-hosting “Sports Open Line”, which quickly established him as a knowledgeable voice in local sports.
His early years at the station saw him covering not just baseball, but a wide spectrum of St. Louis sports including the Blues hockey team, basketball, and football. The versatility he demonstrated at KMOX built his reputation as a well-rounded sports journalist who could speak authoritatively across different disciplines.
His tenure at KMOX coincided with several significant eras in St. Louis sports, including the Cardinals’ World Series appearances in 1982, 1985, and 1987.
Play-by-Play Announcing
Claiborne has distinguished himself as a play-by-play announcer primarily with the St. Louis Cardinals. Since joining the Cardinals radio broadcast team in 2006, he’s become known for his clear, descriptive style that helps listeners visualize the action on the field.
His play-by-play work extends beyond just calling the action. Claiborne excels at weaving in relevant statistics, player backgrounds, and historical context that enriches the listening experience. His preparation is evident in his broadcasts, with a seemingly encyclopedic knowledge of Cardinals history at his disposal.
During his career, Claiborne has called numerous memorable moments, including postseason games and milestone achievements by Cardinals players. His voice has become synonymous with Cardinals baseball for many fans who follow the team on radio.
Color Analyst Roles
Beyond play-by-play duties, Claiborne has served effectively as a color analyst across various sports broadcasts. In this role, he provides expert insight and analysis rather than just describing the action.
His approach as a color analyst draws on his extensive knowledge of not just the rules but the strategy and nuances of each sport. Claiborne’s experience covering multiple sports gives him a unique perspective when analyzing games, often drawing parallels between different athletic competitions.
What sets Claiborne apart in his color work is his ability to break down complex game situations in accessible language. Whether analyzing a manager’s bullpen decision or a defensive alignment, he translates the strategic elements for casual and dedicated fans alike.
TV and Fox Sports Midwest
Claiborne’s television work, particularly with Fox Sports Midwest (now Bally Sports Midwest), expanded his broadcasting footprint beyond radio. On television, his familiar face and voice brought Cardinals coverage to viewers throughout the region.
His TV duties have included pre-game and post-game analysis, special features, and occasional booth work. The visual medium allowed Claiborne to utilize graphics and video elements to enhance his analysis in ways radio couldn’t accommodate.
Fox Sports Midwest provided Claiborne a platform to cover Cardinals baseball from spring training through the World Series. His television presence has helped make him one of the most recognizable sports personalities in St. Louis media.
| TV Role | Network | Years | Coverage Areas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre/Post Game Analyst | Fox Sports Midwest | 2006-Present | Cardinals Baseball |
| Studio Host | Various Networks | 1990s-Present | MLB, NFL, NBA |
| Special Features | Bally Sports | Recent | Player Profiles, Team History |
Daily Radio Sports Show
Claiborne’s daily radio sports show has been a staple for St. Louis sports fans seeking in-depth coverage and analysis. This platform allowed him to explore topics beyond the time constraints of game broadcasts.
His interviewing skills shine in this format. Claiborne has spoken with countless athletes, coaches, and sports personalities, asking insightful questions that often reveal new perspectives. His rapport with guests creates a comfortable atmosphere that typically yields more substantive conversations.
The daily show format has allowed Claiborne to build strong connections with his audience. His consistent presence has made him something of a companion for sports fans, providing reliable analysis through championship seasons and rebuilding years alike.
Podcasting
Embracing modern media trends, Claiborne has ventured into podcasting, bringing his expertise to digital audiences. This medium offers him greater freedom in format and content than traditional broadcasting.
His podcast work continues the conversational style that’s defined his career while allowing for deeper dives into specific topics. Without the time constraints of radio or TV segments, these discussions can explore nuances often missed in conventional broadcasts.
Claiborne’s podcast presence demonstrates his adaptability in an evolving media landscape. While firmly established in traditional broadcasting, he’s successfully transitioned to new platforms where younger audiences increasingly consume sports content.
Notable Partnerships and Colleagues
Mike Claiborne has worked alongside several legendary broadcasters during his tenure with the St. Louis Cardinals radio broadcast team since 2006. His partnerships with these iconic voices have helped shape Cardinals broadcasts and created memorable moments for fans throughout the years.
Jack Buck
Jack Buck, a Hall of Fame announcer, briefly worked with Mike Claiborne before Buck’s passing in 2002. Though their time together was limited, the impact was significant.
Buck, known for his iconic “That’s a winner!” call, provided Claiborne with invaluable broadcasting wisdom early in his career. Their connection, though short, helped establish Claiborne’s understanding of the Cardinals’ broadcasting tradition and expectations.
The influence of Buck’s straightforward, fan-friendly approach can be heard in Claiborne’s current broadcasting style. Claiborne often references Buck’s mentorship as formative to his development as a sports broadcaster.
Mike Shannon
Claiborne’s relationship with Mike Shannon spanned nearly two decades, with the pair working together from 2006 until Shannon’s retirement in 2021.
Shannon, a former Cardinals player turned broadcaster, brought a unique chemistry to his work with Claiborne. Their contrasting styles – Shannon’s colorful commentary against Claiborne’s more measured approach – created a balanced broadcast experience for listeners.
During Cardinals road trips, Claiborne would often handle middle innings while Shannon took breaks. This partnership allowed Claiborne to develop his voice while learning from a broadcaster who had called Cardinals games since 1972.
Their collaboration during multiple playoff runs, including the 2006 and 2011 World Series championships, solidified their partnership in Cardinals broadcasting history.
John Rooney
John Rooney and Claiborne have been fixtures in the Cardinals broadcast booth since 2006. Their partnership represents one of Claiborne’s longest professional relationships in broadcasting.
Rooney, the lead play-by-play voice, works seamlessly with Claiborne during broadcasts. Their rapport has developed over nearly two decades covering regular season games, seven postseason appearances, and two World Series championships.
The pair has established a broadcasting rhythm that Cardinals fans have come to expect. Claiborne typically handles pre-game interviews and middle innings reporting, while occasionally stepping in for full play-by-play duties when needed.
Their shared experiences covering Cardinals history – from Albert Pujols’ prime years to Yadier Molina’s final season – have created a broadcasting partnership built on mutual respect and baseball knowledge.
Ricky Horton
Ricky Horton, a former Cardinals pitcher, joined the broadcast team and has worked extensively with Claiborne in recent years. Their connection brings a player-journalist dynamic to Cardinals coverage.
Horton’s pitching expertise complements Claiborne’s broader sports knowledge. Together, they provide listeners with both technical analysis and contextual storytelling during broadcasts.
The pair frequently works together on pre-game shows, with Claiborne conducting interviews while Horton offers pitching insights. Their collaborative approach highlights both men’s strengths – Claiborne’s interviewing skills and Horton’s playing experience.
Accomplishments and Recognition
Mike Claiborne has earned significant respect in the St. Louis sports community through decades of dedicated broadcasting work. His professional achievements and community involvement have solidified his place as a beloved figure in Cardinals nation.
Induction into Missouri Sports Hall of Fame
Claiborne received one of the highest honors in state sports when he was inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame in 2021. This recognition came after nearly four decades covering St. Louis sports, including his extensive work with the Cardinals.
His broadcasting career spans an impressive seven St. Louis Cardinals World Series appearances (1982, 1985, 1987, 2004, 2006, 2011). Each October classic added to his reputation as a trusted voice during the team’s most significant moments.
Claiborne joined the Cardinals radio broadcast team in 2006 and quickly established himself as an essential part of the organization’s media presence. His consistent professionalism and deep knowledge of the game earned him this prestigious hall of fame honor.
Local Community Contributions
Beyond the broadcast booth, Claiborne remains deeply connected to his hometown. Born and raised in St. Louis, his local roots enhance his ability to connect with the community he serves.
His commitment was further recognized when he received the Bob Burnes/Bob Broeg Award, a well-deserved honor celebrating his contributions to sports media in the region. This award highlights his impact beyond just game coverage.
Claiborne frequently participates in community events, charity functions, and youth sports initiatives throughout the St. Louis area. His visibility at these events helps strengthen the connection between professional sports and local neighborhoods.
Mike Claiborne With The St. Louis Cardinals
Mike Claiborne, one of the St. Louis Cardinals’ respected broadcasters, has been a significant voice for the team. He works alongside other announcing talents like John Rooney and Ricky Horton, forming part of the Cardinals’ broadcast team.
Claiborne has covered an impressive seven St. Louis Cardinals World Series (1982, 1985, 1987, 2004, 2006, 2011), giving him extensive experience with the team during their most critical moments.
His contributions to Cardinals baseball were recognized when he was inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame in 2021. More recently, he received another honor by being inducted into the Missouri Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame in 2024.
As a color analyst, Claiborne brings his multi-sport background to the booth. Before his broadcasting career, he was an athlete himself, having played multiple sports at St. Louis’ DeAndreis High School.
Cardinals fans can regularly hear Claiborne discussing the team’s roster moves and game strategies on various platforms. He often engages with fans about roster decisions and team developments.
Beyond just calling games at Busch Stadium, Claiborne has covered other sports events throughout his career, including championship boxing. His versatility as a broadcaster has made him a valuable asset to the Cardinals organization for many years.
Mike Claiborne’s Role in St. Louis Sports
Mike Claiborne has become a cornerstone of St. Louis sports media, bringing his distinctive voice and deep knowledge to multiple sports across the city. His contributions extend well beyond his 16 seasons with the Cardinals broadcast team.
St. Louis Blues
Though primarily known for his baseball coverage, Claiborne has demonstrated his versatility by contributing to St. Louis Blues hockey coverage throughout his career. His voice became familiar to Blues fans during the team’s journey through various eras.
Claiborne offered analysis and commentary during both challenging seasons and triumphant moments for the franchise. His perspective during the Blues’ historic 2019 Stanley Cup championship run provided context that only a long-time St. Louis sports figure could deliver.
His approach to hockey coverage mirrors his baseball work – straightforward analysis mixed with historical perspective that helps newer fans understand the significance of current developments within the team’s broader history.
Supporting Local Teams
Claiborne’s commitment to St. Louis sports extends to his support of local teams across multiple levels. As a multi-sport athlete himself at St. Louis’ DeAndreis High School, he brings personal experience to his coverage of high school and college athletics.
His community involvement includes mentoring young broadcasters and appearing at local events. Born and raised in St. Louis, Claiborne knows the metro area “better than most”, which informs his coverage with local context that resonates with fans.
Claiborne regularly participates in community initiatives involving the Cardinals, Blues, and other St. Louis sports entities. His presence at charity events and willingness to engage with fans has cemented his status as more than just a broadcaster, but a true ambassador for St. Louis sports.
The Impact of Technology on Broadcasting
Technology has dramatically reshaped how Mike Claiborne and other sports broadcasters connect with Cardinal Nation. The transformation spans from traditional radio setups to today’s digital platforms, creating both challenges and opportunities for veteran voices like Claiborne.
Advancement in Radio
Radio broadcasting underwent significant evolution during Claiborne’s 40+ year career. When Claiborne joined KMOX Radio, sportscasters traveled with teams and called games directly from ballparks. Today, things look quite different.
During the 2020 season, Cardinals broadcasters had to call road games remotely from television monitors. This technological shift required Claiborne and colleagues to adapt their craft.
Modern radio equipment now allows for clearer transmission, instant communication with producers, and real-time statistics integration. These tools have enhanced Claiborne’s ability to deliver insightful commentary to listeners.
Emergence of Podcasts
The podcast revolution created new avenues for Claiborne to share his Cardinals expertise beyond traditional radio. These digital platforms offer deeper dives into topics that might receive limited airtime during game broadcasts.
In February 2025, Claiborne joined forces with Randy Karraker and Bob Ramsey to launch an all-digital sports network aimed at redefining fan connections with their favorite teams. This venture represents his embrace of emerging technologies.
Podcasts allow Claiborne to explore longer-format discussions, player interviews, and historical perspectives on the Cardinals organization. The on-demand nature of podcasts also enables fans to consume content at their convenience rather than adhering to broadcast schedules.
For Claiborne, podcasting presents both creative freedom and strategic career diversification as traditional media continues evolving in unexpected ways.
