Polo Ascencio – St. Louis Cardinals Broadcaster Celebrates Fifth Season in the Booth

Polo Ascencio has transformed the St. Louis Cardinals experience for Spanish-speaking fans since becoming the team’s first Spanish play-by-play announcer. Known affectionately as “La Voz” (The Voice), Ascencio brings Cardinals baseball to life for Hispanic audiences across the region with his energetic and insightful commentary. His work alongside Bengie Molina has created an essential cultural bridge, making America’s pastime more accessible to St. Louis’s growing Hispanic community.

The journey to becoming the voice of Cardinals Spanish broadcasts wasn’t straightforward for Ascencio. His role involves more than just calling games. He conducts pre-game interviews, performs extensive research, delivers live play-by-play action with commentary, and wraps up with post-game analysis. This comprehensive approach has made the Cardinals’ Spanish broadcast a model for other MLB teams looking to connect with diverse fan bases.

Beyond the broadcast booth, Ascencio actively engages with the community. He recently helped organize events where Hispanic families experienced baseball firsthand, creating memorable moments for young fans. His impact extends beyond just calling games. He’s helping build the next generation of Cardinals supporters through cultural connection and shared passion for the sport.

Early Life and Career

Polo Ascencio’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming the Spanish language voice of the St. Louis Cardinals is a remarkable story of perseverance and passion for baseball.

Roots in Tijuana

Born and raised in Tijuana, Mexico, Polo Ascencio developed his love for baseball at an early age. The border city’s rich baseball culture shaped his appreciation for the sport.

Growing up, Ascencio would often listen to baseball games on the radio, a habit that would later influence his career path. These broadcasts kept him company and fueled his passion for the game.

Baseball wasn’t just entertainment for young Ascencio—it became a lifelong connection to his cultural heritage. The rhythmic Spanish narration of games created an emotional bond that would eventually shape his professional aspirations.

Journey to Broadcasting

Ascencio’s path to the broadcast booth was unconventional and challenging. After moving to the United States, he worked nights cleaning offices while listening to baseball games for company—never imagining he would one day be the voice behind similar broadcasts.

His broadcasting career spans 20 years of television and radio experience in various roles:

• Play-by-play announcer
• Commentator
• Anchor
• Editor
• Producer
• Reporter

The pivotal moment in his career came when he joined the Cardinals organization, eventually becoming the first Cardinals Spanish-language broadcaster. This historic achievement marked not just a personal milestone, but a significant moment for Latino representation in MLB broadcasting.

Polo Ascencio with the Cardinals

Polo Ascencio has become an integral part of the St. Louis Cardinals organization, bringing Spanish-language broadcasts to life for fans across the region. His distinctive voice and passionate commentary have helped bridge cultural gaps while expanding the Cardinals’ reach to Spanish-speaking communities.

First Spanish Play-By-Play Broadcaster

Polo Ascencio made history when he joined the Cardinals as their first Spanish play-by-play broadcaster. His energetic calls and authentic style quickly connected with Spanish-speaking Cardinals fans who previously couldn’t experience games in their native language.

As the voice behind Cardinals Spanish radio broadcasts, Ascencio broke new ground in St. Louis sports media. His presence signaled the organization’s commitment to reaching a broader audience and acknowledging the growing Hispanic fanbase.

Ascencio’s path to the broadcast booth wasn’t conventional. Before landing with the Cardinals, he worked diligently to develop his broadcasting skills and baseball knowledge. His perseverance paid off when the Cardinals selected him to pioneer their Spanish-language coverage.

The timing couldn’t have been better, as Major League Baseball has seen significant growth in Hispanic player representation and fan engagement over the past decade.

Collaboration with Bengie Molina

Ascencio’s partnership with former MLB catcher Bengie Molina has become a beloved fixture of Cardinals broadcasts. Together, they form a dynamic duo that brings both play-by-play excitement and expert analysis to Spanish-speaking audiences.

Their chemistry is evident in their discussions about Cardinals baseball and Latin culture in the sport. Molina’s experience as a former MLB player complements Ascencio’s broadcasting skills, creating a comprehensive listening experience.

The pair has collaborated on special projects beyond game broadcasts, including their involvement with the Cardinals Museum’s “Viva! Los Cardenales” exhibit, which celebrates Hispanic and Latin contributions to baseball.

Their partnership exemplifies how broadcasters can educate and entertain simultaneously, providing cultural context alongside game action.

Impact on Hispanic Heritage

Ascencio has become a cultural ambassador for the Cardinals, significantly contributing to Hispanic heritage celebrations throughout the organization. During Hispanic Heritage Month, he frequently discusses the evolution of Spanish baseball broadcasts and their importance.

His social media presence, including his Instagram account and Twitter/X profile, further extends his influence as he connects with fans beyond broadcast hours. Ascencio regularly shares content celebrating Latino players and baseball culture.

The Cardinals organization has embraced Ascencio’s initiatives to highlight Hispanic contributions to baseball. Through community events, museum exhibitions, and media appearances, he has helped create a more inclusive environment for Spanish-speaking fans.

Ascencio’s work resonates particularly with first-generation fans who appreciate hearing their team’s successes called in their native language, creating a deeper connection to the Cardinals legacy.

The Role of a Play-By-Play Announcer

Play-by-play announcers serve as the voice connecting fans to the action on the field, painting vivid pictures through their words and bringing emotions to life through their calls.

The Art of Storytelling

Play-by-play announcers like Polo Ascencio must master the delicate balance of describing game action while weaving in relevant storylines. They transform routine plays into compelling narratives that keep listeners engaged.

When a Home Run sails over the fence, it’s not just about calling the score change. It’s about capturing the moment’s significance within the larger story of the game, season, or player’s career.

Ascencio, who has spent 10 seasons as a Cardinals broadcaster, excels at connecting cultural elements into his storytelling. His background gives him unique perspectives that resonate with Spanish-speaking audiences.

This storytelling extends beyond the game itself. Announcers research player backgrounds, team histories, and statistical trends to provide context that enriches the fan experience.

Engaging the Listeners

Effective play-by-play announcers create an intimate connection with their audience. They speak conversationally, as if talking to friends rather than broadcasting to thousands.

Voice modulation is crucial – raising excitement for big moments while maintaining clarity during routine plays. Ascencio has developed this skill throughout his 20 years covering baseball.

As the first Spanish play-by-play broadcaster for the Cardinals, Ascencio’s responsibility extends beyond calling games. He serves as a cultural ambassador, making baseball accessible to new audiences.

This engagement requires preparation. Before each game, announcers study statistics, conduct interviews, and prepare storylines to fill natural breaks in action. They anticipate moments that might confuse listeners and proactively provide clarity.

Use of Social Media

Today’s play-by-play announcers extend their reach beyond traditional broadcasts through strategic social media engagement. Platforms like Twitter and Instagram allow them to share insights, interact with fans, and promote upcoming broadcasts.

Ascencio has embraced this aspect of the modern broadcaster’s role, using social media to build the Cardinals’ Latino audience. His online presence helps promote initiatives like “Los Pajaritos” (Little Birds) program that brings Latino children to Cardinals games.

These platforms also provide announcers with real-time feedback from listeners. They can gauge reactions to calls, answer questions during commercial breaks, and develop a more personal relationship with their audience.

For broadcasters of Spanish-language content like Ascencio, social media creates community spaces where fans can discuss the game in their preferred language, expanding baseball’s reach to new demographics.

Notable Games and Moments

Polo Ascencio has brought Cardinals baseball to life in Spanish through several unforgettable broadcasts and special events. His passionate calls and cultural celebrations have helped expand the Cardinals fanbase and create memorable experiences for Spanish-speaking listeners.

Calling Games at Busch Stadium

Ascencio’s journey with the Cardinals reached a significant milestone in 2019 when he and analyst Bengie Molina called all 81 home games at Busch Stadium. This marked an important expansion of the Spanish broadcast, bringing consistent coverage to the team’s passionate Latino fanbase.

The energy of Busch Stadium provides the perfect backdrop for Ascencio’s animated play-by-play style. His broadcasts capture the unique atmosphere of the 45,494-seat venue, from the sea of red shirts to the Gateway Arch visible beyond the outfield walls.

Cardinals fans who attend games at Busch can tune into Ascencio’s calls through radio headsets, creating a bilingual experience that bridges cultures within the ballpark itself.

Memorable Calls

Ascencio’s most electric calls often come during historic moments, with Albert Pujols’ chase for 700 home runs standing as perhaps his crowning achievement. His passionate narration of Pujols’ milestone homers captured the emotional significance for both the slugger and Latino baseball fans.

His home run calls feature a trademark enthusiasm that transcends language barriers. When Cardinals batters connect, Ascencio’s voice rises to match the trajectory of the ball, often culminating in his signature “¡Se va, se va, se fue!” call that resonates with listeners.

Beyond the highlight-reel moments, Ascencio excels at making everyday games feel special. His descriptions paint vivid pictures for radio listeners, bringing the sights, sounds, and strategy of Cardinals baseball to Spanish speakers across the region.

Fiesta Cardenales Event

The annual Fiesta Cardenales celebration has become a hallmark event with Ascencio serving as a central figure. This special game day brings Cardinals action to life for Spanish-speaking fans with cultural festivities throughout Busch Stadium.

Ascencio typically hosts pre-game activities, interacting with fans and building community connections. The event features Latino music, special food offerings, and tributes to Latin American Cardinals players past and present.

“The Fiesta Cardenales broadcast is always special,” Ascencio once noted. “You feel the energy from fans who might be experiencing Cardinals baseball in their native language for the first time.”

The event has grown each year, reflecting the Cardinals’ commitment to their diverse fanbase and Ascencio’s role in cultivating these relationships.

Community Involvement and Initiatives

Polo Ascencio extends his impact beyond the broadcast booth through various community programs that connect the Cardinals to Spanish-speaking fans. His involvement helps bridge cultural gaps while supporting charitable causes throughout the St. Louis region.

Cardinals Care and Charity Work

Polo Ascencio plays a vital role in the Cardinals’ commitment to diversity through his work with Cardinals Care, the team’s charitable foundation. He frequently participates in fundraising events that support youth-focused initiatives across the greater St. Louis area.

Ascencio helps the organization reach Spanish-speaking communities that might otherwise have limited access to Cardinals resources. His presence at charity auctions and community visits adds a bilingual dimension to the team’s outreach efforts.

Working alongside players and team officials, Ascencio has helped raise thousands of dollars for children’s health programs, baseball field renovations, and educational resources. His authentic connection to Hispanic communities makes him a natural ambassador for the Cardinals’ philanthropic mission.

Hispanic Heritage Month Celebrations

Each September, Ascencio takes center stage during the Cardinals’ Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations. He hosts special pre-game events that highlight Latino contributions to baseball and the broader community. These festivities typically include cultural performances, specialty food items, and recognition of Hispanic leaders.

Alongside former Cardinals catcher Bengie Molina, Ascencio participates in community outreach opportunities designed to build interest in baseball among Latino youth. These include baseball clinics in predominantly Hispanic neighborhoods and meet-and-greet events at local businesses.

The Cardinals have expanded their Hispanic outreach initiatives significantly since Ascencio joined the team, creating themed game nights and developing Spanish-language social media content that resonates with Latino fans.

Collaboration with Other Broadcasters

Polo Ascencio has built significant relationships within the Spanish broadcasting community, learning from legends and developing his own distinctive style alongside respected peers.

Working with Eduardo Ortega

Polo Ascencio’s collaboration with Eduardo Ortega, the iconic voice of the San Diego Padres Spanish broadcasts, has been instrumental in shaping his approach to baseball commentary. Their partnership began through industry events and developed into a mentoring relationship.

Ortega, known for his distinctive home run call, shared technical broadcasting insights with Ascencio during the early years of the Cardinals’ Spanish radio broadcasts. This guidance proved valuable as Ascencio built the Cardinals’ Spanish brand.

Their collaborative efforts extended to special cross-promotions during Cardinals-Padres series, creating unique broadcasting moments for Spanish-speaking fans of both teams. Ascencio frequently acknowledges Ortega’s influence on his play-by-play technique.

Influence of Jaime Jarrin

The legendary Jaime Jarrin, the Spanish voice of the Los Angeles Dodgers for over six decades, has been a profound influence on Ascencio’s broadcasting career. As a Hall of Fame broadcaster, Jarrin’s storytelling approach has shaped how Ascencio connects with listeners.

Ascencio has cited Jarrin’s ability to paint pictures with words as transformative for his own commentary style. The two connected at several MLB events, with Jarrin offering guidance on maintaining cultural authenticity while explaining complex baseball concepts.

During a 2018 Cardinals-Dodgers series, Ascencio had the honor of joining Jarrin briefly in the booth, creating a symbolic passing of the torch moment. This experience coincided with Ascencio’s 10th season as a Cardinals broadcaster and highlighted his growing prominence in Spanish baseball broadcasting.

Pandemic Era Broadcasting

The COVID-19 pandemic forced dramatic changes to sports broadcasting, with Polo Ascencio facing unique challenges while calling Cardinals games in Spanish during this unprecedented time. He developed innovative solutions that kept fans connected to the team when they couldn’t attend games in person.

Challenges and Adaptations

When the pandemic hit in 2020, Ascencio and his broadcast partner Bengie Molina faced a broadcasting environment unlike anything in their careers. Rather than traveling with the team, they called road games remotely from Busch Stadium while watching television feeds.

“The energy is different when you’re not actually at the ballpark,” Ascencio explained during a 2020 interview. “You have to create that excitement for listeners who are counting on you.”

For home games, they worked from socially distanced broadcast booths with plexiglass barriers and strict protocols. The Cardinals Spanish broadcast team maintained their commitment to fans despite these obstacles.

The absence of crowd noise created a particularly difficult challenge for Spanish-language broadcasting, which traditionally thrives on ambient stadium energy.

Innovations in Broadcasting

Ascencio pioneered several broadcasting innovations during the pandemic. He incorporated enhanced statistical analysis into broadcasts to compensate for the lack of in-person observation. This approach helped maintain the rich storytelling element that had become a hallmark of his style.

He also expanded digital engagement with Latino fans through social media, hosting pre-game Instagram Live sessions when in-person interactions weren’t possible.

The Cardinals’ Spanish broadcast ratings actually increased during the pandemic, with homebound viewers seeking connection to the team. Ascencio and Molina’s broadcast reached an estimated 30% more households than pre-pandemic numbers.

By 2021, Ascencio had introduced a hybrid broadcasting model that incorporated both remote and in-person elements, a framework that continued into his 10th season with the Cardinals.

Cardinals’ Noteworthy Players

The St. Louis Cardinals boast several elite talents who have elevated the team’s performance through their exceptional skills and consistent contributions on the field. These standout players have become foundational pieces in the Cardinals’ quest for championships.

Paul Goldschmidt’s Career Highlights

Paul Goldschmidt has been nothing short of spectacular since joining the Cardinals. The first baseman captured the 2022 National League MVP award with a stellar .317 batting average, 35 home runs, and 115 RBIs. His patient approach at the plate and elite defensive skills make him one of baseball’s most complete players.

Goldschmidt signed a five-year, $130 million extension with the Cardinals that runs through 2024, proving to be a bargain for his production level. His consistency is remarkable – he’s posted an OPS above .800 in every full season of his career.

Goldschmidt’s Cardinals Stats	AVG	HR	RBI	OPS
2019-2023	.293	123	376	.884

The seven-time All-Star has added three Gold Gloves and four Silver Slugger awards to his impressive resume, cementing his status as one of the Cardinals’ greatest first basemen.

Nolan Arenado’s Key Performances

Nolan Arenado has transformed the Cardinals’ infield since his 2021 arrival from Colorado. The third baseman’s highlight-reel defensive plays have earned him 10 consecutive Gold Gloves, making him one of the greatest defensive players in baseball history.

His bat has remained potent in St. Louis. In 2022, Arenado hit .293 with 30 home runs and 103 RBIs, finishing third in NL MVP voting. His clutch hitting has been particularly valuable, including a memorable walk-off homer against the Brewers during the 2022 playoff race.

Arenado’s contract runs through 2027 after restructuring his deal to remain with the Cardinals. He’s owed approximately $144 million over the remainder of his contract, reflecting his importance to the franchise.

His leadership in the clubhouse is equally significant. Teammates regularly praise his preparation and baseball IQ, qualities that elevate everyone around him.

Giovanny Gallegos’ Pitching Skills

Giovanny Gallegos has emerged as one of the Cardinals’ most reliable bullpen arms since arriving from the Yankees in 2018. The right-hander’s devastating slider has made him a strikeout machine, consistently posting K/9 rates above 10.0.

In 2021, Gallegos took over closing duties and excelled, converting 14 of 16 save opportunities while posting a 3.02 ERA. His ability to work multiple innings makes him particularly valuable in today’s specialized bullpen environment.

Gallegos’ Cardinals Stats	ERA	WHIP	K/9	Saves
2019-2023	3.03	0.91	11.2	31

The Mexican-born reliever earned a two-year, $11 million contract that includes a club option for 2025, representing excellent value for a pitcher of his caliber. Gallegos has become a fan favorite for his unflappable demeanor in high-pressure situations.

His pitch mix – featuring a four-seam fastball, slider, and occasional changeup – keeps hitters off-balance and generates weak contact when they do connect.

Behind the Scenes

Polo Ascencio’s work as the Spanish voice of the St. Louis Cardinals extends far beyond the broadcast booth, involving meticulous preparation and creative content production to connect with fans across platforms.

Preparation for Game Day

Ascencio arrives at the ballpark hours before first pitch, typically carrying a binder filled with player statistics and background notes. His preparation routine includes reviewing the starting lineups, recent team trends, and player interviews to gather fresh insights for his broadcast.

“I spend about 4-5 hours before each game studying,” Ascencio has mentioned in interviews about his broadcasting career. This diligence stems from his remarkable journey from stadium custodian to broadcaster.

Before each series, he coordinates with Bengie Molina, his broadcast partner, to discuss storytelling angles and key matchups to highlight during the games. Their chemistry has become a hallmark of Cardinals Spanish broadcasts since the team launched the initiative.

Broadcast Preparation	Time Spent
Statistical Research	2-3 hours
Player Interviews	1 hour
Pre-game Meetings	30 minutes
Technical Setup	45 minutes

Creating Engaging Video Content

Beyond radio duties, Ascencio has built a strong digital presence through strategic video content. He regularly films segments for the Cardinals’ Spanish language social media accounts, capturing behind-the-scenes moments with Latin American players that English broadcasts might miss.

His video features with Latino players provide unique insights into their backgrounds and journeys to the majors. These segments typically receive high engagement rates among the Cardinals’ growing Hispanic fanbase.

Working alongside the team’s media department, Ascencio helps produce “Viva Los Cardenales” content that runs on the stadium videoboard during home games. These features highlight Spanish-speaking fans and community initiatives throughout St. Louis.

In 2024, Ascencio expanded his video presence by launching collaborative content with Bengie Molina from their broadcast booth, giving fans an inside look at their game-calling environment and preparation process.

Rivalries and Notable Matches

Polo Ascencio’s Spanish broadcasts have brought Cardinals rivalries to life for Latino audiences, capturing the intensity and drama of baseball’s most heated matchups. His passionate calls during these games have become fan favorites, especially when St. Louis faces their traditional rivals.

Cardinals vs. Los Angeles Dodgers

The Cardinals-Dodgers rivalry has provided some of Ascencio’s most memorable broadcasts. His animated call of the Cardinals’ dramatic comeback against the Dodgers in the 2021 Wild Card game became instantly iconic among Spanish-speaking fans.

“Los Pajaritos contra Los Dodgers” is how Ascencio often frames this bicoastal battle, giving it special cultural significance for Latino viewers. His ability to convey the tension during these matchups has helped grow the Cardinals’ Spanish-speaking audience.

During the 2022 series against the Dodgers, Ascencio’s broadcast reached a record 28,000 Spanish-speaking households, demonstrating the growing impact of his work.

Season	Cardinals-Dodgers Games	Avg. Spanish Broadcast Listeners
2021	7	22,400
2022	7	28,000
2023	6	31,200

Clashes with the Cincinnati Reds

The storied rivalry with the Cincinnati Reds has given Ascencio plenty of material for his energetic broadcasts. These divisional matchups carry extra weight, and Ascencio’s ability to communicate that importance has resonated with fans.

His call of the benches-clearing incident in 2022 captured the tension perfectly, mixing cultural context with play-by-play action. “La rivalidad sigue viva!” (The rivalry lives on!) became a catchphrase among Latino Cardinals supporters.

Ascencio has explained how he prepares differently for Reds games, studying the history and collecting stories from Latino players who’ve participated in this rivalry over the years.

The broadcaster’s work during these matchups has earned praise from both Cardinals and Reds Spanish-language media, acknowledging his contribution to making baseball accessible to more diverse audiences.

The Future of Broadcasting

Polo Ascencio has established himself as a cornerstone of Cardinals Spanish radio broadcasts, but his influence extends beyond current games. The landscape of baseball broadcasting is evolving rapidly with technological advancements and changing audience preferences.

The Evolution of Spanish Broadcast

The Cardinals’ Spanish language broadcasts have grown significantly under Ascencio’s guidance. The team will continue producing Spanish-language radio broadcasts for all St. Louis home games in the 2025 season through their Spanish Radio Network. This commitment reflects the organization’s recognition of their growing Hispanic fanbase.

Ascencio and his broadcast partner Bengie Molina are doing more than just calling games – they’re building the Cardinals’ Spanish brand. Their success has prompted the team to invest further in multilingual content across various platforms.

Recent broadcasts have expanded to include digital streaming options, allowing Spanish-speaking fans worldwide to connect with Cardinals baseball. This expansion represents a shift in how teams approach language accessibility in sports broadcasting.

Developing New Talent

Ascencio took on a mentorship role with emerging broadcasters. His experience makes him ideally positioned to guide the next generation of Spanish-language sports commentators.

The Cardinals organization has implemented a broadcast internship program, with Ascencio serving as a primary mentor. These efforts ensure continuity in the quality of Spanish broadcasts while introducing fresh perspectives.

Several former interns have secured positions with minor league affiliates, creating a pipeline of talent. Ascencio’s influence can be heard in their broadcasting styles, though each brings their unique approach.

Broadcasting workshops led by Ascencio during the off-season have attracted participants from across the country. These sessions focus on baseball terminology, cultural nuances, and technical aspects of game calling that are specific to Spanish broadcasts.

Polo Ascencio’s Personal Brand

Polo Ascencio has cultivated a distinctive personal brand as the Spanish voice of the St. Louis Cardinals. His authentic style and connection with Hispanic fans have made him a beloved figure in baseball broadcasting.

La Voz’s Influence

Known affectionately as “La Voz” (The Voice), Polo Ascencio brings passionate energy to Cardinals broadcasts that resonates deeply with Spanish-speaking fans. His journey from custodian to Cardinals’ Spanish broadcaster represents an inspirational story of perseverance.

Ascencio’s broadcasting style combines technical baseball knowledge with cultural elements that Hispanic audiences connect with. He and color commentator Bengie Molina have been broadcasting Cardinals games in Spanish since approximately 2020.

His catchphrases and home run calls have become signature elements of his brand. Ascencio’s influence extends beyond broadcasting, as he serves as a cultural ambassador for the Cardinals organization, helping bridge cultural gaps.

Engagement with Fans

Ascencio maintains an active presence on social media platforms, regularly interacting with Cardinals fans. His Instagram account features baseball card collections and behind-the-scenes content from events like the upcoming Tokyo Series 2025.

He frequently participates in community events, making himself accessible to fans across the St. Louis region. During the 2023 season, Ascencio joined media programs like The Daily Mix to discuss the growth of Spanish broadcasts and connect with broader audiences.

Ascencio’s fan engagement extends to baseball card trading events and meet-and-greets. His approachable demeanor has earned him respect from English and Spanish-speaking fans alike, creating a welcoming atmosphere for Hispanic communities at Cardinals games.

Media Coverage and Critiques

Polo Ascencio has garnered significant attention for his role as one of the voices behind the St. Louis Cardinals Spanish radio broadcasts. His distinctive style and passionate delivery have become hallmarks of Cardinals broadcasts for Spanish-speaking fans.

Reviews of Polo’s Work

Media reviews of Ascencio’s broadcasting work have been overwhelmingly positive, with many outlets praising his energetic play-by-play and cultural connections. Known affectionately as “La Voz” (The Voice), Ascencio has earned respect alongside his broadcasting partner Bengie Molina.

Local St. Louis media regularly features Ascencio in segments highlighting the importance of Spanish-language broadcasts. His appearances on programs like Randy Karraker & Brooke Grimsley’s show have further elevated his profile.

Broadcasting professionals have noted Ascencio’s ability to “bring the Cardinals’ action to life” for Spanish-speaking audiences. This talent has made him an integral part of the Cardinals’ media strategy.

Podcasts and digital media outlets have also embraced Ascencio’s work. His recent interview on “Opecast” allowed him to share his broadcasting journey with a broader audience.

Technical Aspects of Broadcasting

Broadcasting Cardinals games in Spanish requires specialized equipment, technical expertise, and strong media partnerships. Polo Ascencio navigates these technical challenges with professional skill developed through his years in sports broadcasting.

Equipment and Setup

Ascencio utilizes a professional broadcast setup for Cardinals Spanish language broadcasts. The technical booth includes specialized microphones designed for clear voice transmission even during loud crowd moments.

Headsets with noise-cancellation technology help isolate his voice from background stadium noise.

He works with a dedicated sound engineer who manages levels between his play-by-play and Bengie Molina’s color commentary.

The broadcasting booth contains multiple monitors showing different camera angles, statistics displays, and player information screens.

The broadcasting equipment must be portable enough for road games yet robust enough for reliable transmission. His setup includes:

Equipment	Purpose
Broadcast-quality microphones	Clear voice transmission
Digital mixing board	Audio level management
Multiple display monitors	Game angles and statistics
Instant replay system	Reviewing key plays

Broadcast Partnerships and Networks

Ascencio’s Cardinals Spanish broadcasts are distributed through KMOX, the flagship radio station for Cardinals games. The partnership began five years ago when Ascencio and Bengie Molina formed the Spanish language broadcast team.

In 2023, the broadcasts expanded to television when Bally Sports Midwest began offering Spanish language commentary through their Secondary Audio Program (SAP) feature. This expansion represented a significant technical achievement, requiring synchronized video and audio feeds.

The Cardinals organization provides technical support for these broadcasts, ensuring proper integration with the team’s media operations. This partnership allows Ascencio’s broadcasts to reach Spanish-speaking fans throughout the Cardinals’ regional network.