Report: ESPN, SEC Network broadcaster Tom Hart named finalist for position with Atlanta Braves

If you’re a fan of SEC football, play-by-play commentator Tom Hart has been a part of your Saturdays in the fall. Alongside Jordan Rodgers and Cole Cubelic, Hart was called the conference’s primetime games, mostly airing on the SEC Network. Basketball and baseball are in the repertoire as well for the broadcaster.

Hart is one of the industry’s best and may now have a chance to get called up to the big leagues. According to Mark Bowman of MLB.com, Hart is considered a “top finalist” to be the Atlanta Braves play-by-play man. He would be replacing Chip Caray, who left to work for the St. Louis Cardinals.

“Tom Hart remains a top finalist to replace Chip Caray in the Braves’ television booth,” Bowman said. “Sounds like Ben Ingram will remain in his preferred role on the radio side. Ben is as good as it gets on radio.”

There are reportedly other finalists in the running for the job but no specific names were given. At the moment, Hart is the only name publicly connected as a decision looms before spring training begins in February.

Hart has worked for the Braves in the past, working during the pre and postgame shows. From 2011-2014, he was a host and field reporter for Braves Live. Games are now locally broadcasted on Bally Sports South. Although, Atlanta is one of the more nationally beloved franchises in baseball.

If Hart does earn the job, Opening Day for the Braves falls on March 30 against NL East foe, the Washington Nationals. Atlanta will have its home opener at Truist Park a week later against the San Diego Padres on April 6.

As for what working for the Braves would mean for Hart’s status with ESPN — it’s unknown. There is some overlap between the tail end of regular season baseball and the beginning of football. In what would be a major gain for Atlanta, it would be just as huge of a loss for ESPN/SEC Network.