Pelicans, Cumulus extend radio deal
"We are thrilled to continue our relationship with ESPN Radio. It's a natural fit for professional baseball in Myrtle Beach and ESPN Radio to team up for the presentation of our broadcast," said Pelicans General Manager North Johnson. "We are equally thrilled that this will continue our broadcast on not just one, but two FM signals, which ensures that our fans on the Grand Strand and beyond will have the opportunity to listen to Pelicans baseball."
"The Team," which has served as the home for Myrtle Beach Pelicans baseball on the radio since the start of 2004, received a complete studio renovation and equipment upgrade during the Fall and Winter months to guarantee the best quality sports radio on the Grand Strand.
"We're very excited about the direction in which the Pelicans are headed, and proud to continue our partnership with their organization," said Market Manager of Cumulus Broadcasting Layne Ryan. "It's a very natural fit; the Pelicans and ESPN Radio. We make a great team and part of being 'The Leader in Sports' involves active relationships with the highest level of local and regional sports. With our exclusive broadcast rights in the area for Coastal Carolina University, Clemson University, the Carolina Panthers, and with our beloved Myrtle Beach Pelicans, I believe we, at ESPN Radio "The Team," are poised to lead again in 2007."
Ryan Ibbotson returns for his fourth season behind the microphone in the Pelicans radio booth. The 25-year-old graduate of the University of Tennessee will partner with veteran Minor League voice Rob Sinclair during the `07 campaign. Sinclair, 27, returns to the Carolina League where he served as the play-by-play broadcaster for the Kinston Indians in 2004 and 2005. He joins the Pelicans Radio Network after spending last season as the voice of the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes in the California League.
"We are excited to have Ryan back broadcasting Pelicans games," said Johnson. "He has become a familiar voice and personality for the Pelicans and his broadcast style and description is certainly one that our fans truly enjoy."
"I had the pleasure to work with Rob last year in Rancho Cucamonga," mentioned Johnson. "I know that pairing Rob and Ryan will give the Pelicans one of the best tandems in Minor League Baseball. We're glad to have them both in the booth."
The Pelicans' next broadcast is scheduled for Thursday, April 5 (Opening Day 2007). Addy's Harbor Dodge will remain the presenting sponsor of the Pelicans Radio Network for a third straight season. Fans listening to the Pelicans broadcasts are encouraged to email the broadcast team at [email protected] with any questions or comments throughout the season.