Few things get MLS fans talking quite like the weekly announcer list. When the mls announcer assignments drop for the weekend, the online debate ignites. At the center of the storm is often the polarizing figure of Taylor Twellman. Some fans celebrate his passionate, unfiltered commentary, while others find his style grating. This passionate fan reaction highlights a bigger conversation about what makes a great broadcast. From excitement over certain pairings to frustration about perceived favoritism towards teams like Inter Miami, it’s clear these choices deeply impact the fan experience.
Breaking Down the MLS Announcer Lineup
- The comments revealed a mixed reception among fans regarding the announcers, particularly highlighting Taylor Twellman’s controversial status.
- Some users expressed excitement for the return of specific announcers while others complained about repetitive choices and a lack of variety.
- Fans showed a strong interest in the behind-the-scenes dynamics of remote and on-site broadcasting options.
- User discussions suggested that announcer choices could impact the viewing experience significantly, showing how passionate fans can be about their preferred commentators.
The Lead Broadcast Teams
When you tune into the marquee “Sunday Night Soccer” matches on MLS Season Pass, you’re greeted by a consistent crew of voices guiding you through the action. Apple and MLS have designated lead broadcast teams for both English and Spanish-language broadcasts, ensuring a familiar and expert presence for their biggest games of the week. These teams are responsible for not just calling the plays, but also for weaving the narrative of the match, providing context, and analyzing the critical moments that define a game. Having dedicated teams for these high-profile slots helps build a rapport with the audience, though as fan discussions show, familiarity can sometimes breed strong opinions.
English-Language Announcers
The English-language broadcast booth for Sunday night games features a trio of well-known personalities: Jake Zivin, Taylor Twellman, and Andrew Wiebe. Zivin is often praised for his sharp play-by-play, while Wiebe brings a deep analytical perspective. Twellman, a former MLS MVP and USMNT player, is arguably the most discussed figure of the group. His passionate, and at times blunt, commentary style makes him a polarizing figure among fans. Much like the controversy that can follow top athletes, Twellman’s presence often sparks intense debate, with some viewers appreciating his raw honesty and others wishing for a different voice.
Spanish-Language Announcers
For Spanish-speaking viewers, the broadcast is in the capable hands of Sammy Sadovnik and Diego Valeri. This duo brings a wealth of experience and a distinct flavor to the call. Sadovnik is a veteran voice in soccer broadcasting, known for his eloquent and exciting play-by-play. He’s paired with Diego Valeri, a true MLS legend and former league MVP, whose recent transition from the pitch to the booth provides viewers with incredibly fresh and relevant insights. Their partnership ensures that the Spanish-language broadcast is not just a translation, but a world-class viewing experience in its own right, tailored for a massive and passionate segment of the MLS fanbase.
Your Pre-Game and Halftime Crew
The gameday experience extends beyond the 90 minutes of play, and the pre-game and halftime shows are crucial for setting the stage and breaking down the action. The English-language studio show, “Countdown,” is hosted by Kaylyn Kyle and features a panel of insightful analysts. Bradley Wright-Phillips, another former MLS star, provides his expert take alongside a rotating cast that includes Sacha Kljestan and Dax McCarty. On the Spanish-language side, “La Previa” is anchored by host Antonella Gonzalez. This crew is tasked with building anticipation, dissecting tactics, and providing the stories that make each match compelling. Their chemistry and knowledge are key to keeping viewers engaged during breaks in the on-field action.
The dynamic between the hosts and analysts is just as important as the on-field action itself. Kyle and Gonzalez guide the conversation, while the analysts, all recently retired players, offer perspectives that are grounded in modern soccer. Wright-Phillips, Kljestan, and McCarty can speak firsthand about the pressures of the league, the tactics being deployed, and the mindsets of the players. This blend of hosting talent and expert analysis creates a comprehensive broadcast that enriches the viewer’s understanding. Much like a doubles team in pickleball needs to perfect the art of mixing their shots, a broadcast team relies on the interplay of different skills and personalities to deliver a winning performance.
New Faces for the 2025 Season
To keep the broadcast fresh and incorporate new perspectives, MLS Season Pass is welcoming five new personalities to its talent roster for the 2025 season. The new additions include Ramses Sandoval, Dax McCarty, Osvaldo “Ozzie” Alonso, Ashley Gonzalez, and Michele Giannone. This infusion of new talent is a great way to evolve the coverage, bringing in individuals with different experiences and analytical styles. Sandoval and Giannone are seasoned broadcasters, while Gonzalez brings her own unique on-air presence. The additions of recently retired legends like McCarty and Alonso are particularly exciting, as they can offer immediate, relevant insights straight from the modern locker room.
The introduction of new faces signals an exciting new chapter for the broadcast, much like when a team undergoes a major change. It’s a chance to build on what works while exploring new dynamics. Dax McCarty is in a unique position, joining the team as both a new face and a rotating analyst for the “Countdown” pre-game show, showing the league’s confidence in his on-camera abilities. For fans, this means more voices, more opinions, and a richer tapestry of stories. Just as fans have to say a heartfelt goodbye to old traditions, they also get to welcome a new era of talent that will shape how they experience the game for years to come.
The Taylor Twellman Debate: Love Him or Hate Him?
The most notable figure stirring up emotions is Taylor Twellman, a former player turned commentator who aimed to add color commentary to MLS games. His presence seems to elicit love-hate sentiments from fans. Comments like, “Two weeks in a row having to listen to Taylor Twellman… makes sense that today is Good Friday, because *GOD IS DEAD*” reflect the frustrations some viewers have with his style. His frequent assignments to key matches, particularly featuring big names like Lionel Messi, yearn for more diversity among announcers. Even users like AFrozen_1 voiced annoyance, lamenting, “Oh god. So not only is the Crew match not in Columbus, but they got TT to suck off Messi for all the crew fans at their watch parties. What a crock of shit.” This strong reaction signals that while some find Twellman entertaining, many feel he dominates the narrative at crucial games, overshadowing other announcers.
The Announcers Fans Can’t Get Enough Of
Amid the chatter about Twellman, some voices in the crowd cheered for their beloved announcers making a return. Comments such as, “Pumped to see Ian Joy on the list!” and “Always love Kyndra on Loons matches” indicate that certain announcers have built a loyal fanbase. For these users, the excitement of seeing their preferred commentators is what enhances their game-watching experience. This nostalgia combined with appreciation for engaging commentary creates a unique blend that draws fans to specific games. When announcers like Lloyd Sam return, it’s like a warm embrace for fans—their excitement is palpable, as one user quipped, “Finally got Lloyd Sam back… to watch his two former MLS clubs duke it out in an easy victory for NJ!” Such sentiments show that when the chemistry feels right, fans are all in, eager to hear the familiar voices guiding them through matchday narratives.
The MLS and Apple Partnership: A New Era of Soccer Broadcasting
All this passionate discussion around announcers is happening inside a completely new media environment for Major League Soccer. The league kicked off a massive partnership with Apple that has centralized everything onto one platform: MLS Season Pass. This move fundamentally shifted how fans access games, creating a single destination for every match and eliminating the old, fragmented model of regional sports networks. It’s a bold strategy that puts every team, every player, and yes, every announcer, under one digital roof, making the viewing experience more consistent and accessible than ever before.
The 10-Year Exclusive Deal
This isn’t just a temporary arrangement. Apple and MLS have committed to a 10-year partnership, giving the tech giant exclusive worldwide rights to broadcast every single MLS and Leagues Cup match from 2023 through 2032. For fans, this means a decade of stability and predictability. You no longer have to hunt down which channel or service is carrying your team’s game each week. Everything is in one place, under one subscription. This long-term vision allows both MLS and Apple to invest heavily in the quality of the broadcast and build a comprehensive home for American soccer.
No More Blackouts: Watch Any Game, Anywhere
Perhaps the single greatest benefit for fans in this new era is the complete elimination of local blackouts. In the past, if you lived in the same market as your favorite team, the game was often blocked on national streaming services to protect local cable broadcasts—a frustrating experience for cord-cutters. Now, with MLS Season Pass, you can watch all games without any restrictions, regardless of where you live. Whether you’re a die-hard supporter or a neutral fan, every game is available to you.
Beyond the Match: The Apple Ecosystem Integration
The partnership also leverages Apple’s massive tech ecosystem to make watching games incredibly convenient. MLS Season Pass is available through the Apple TV app, which you can access on almost any device you own. This includes iPhones, iPads, and Macs, but also smart TVs, streaming devices like Roku and Amazon Fire TV, and even PlayStation and Xbox game consoles. This widespread availability means you can cover the action from your living room or on your commute, making it easier than ever to keep up with your team.
What’s New for the 30th MLS Season in 2025?
As the league heads into its historic 30th season, the partnership with Apple is set to deliver even more for the fans. A milestone anniversary is the perfect time to introduce fresh ideas, and MLS is doing just that. The 2025 season isn’t just another year of soccer; it’s a celebration of how far the league has come and a preview of where it’s headed. From a brand-new club joining the ranks to new programming that will give fans unprecedented access, the upcoming season is shaping up to be the most exciting one yet. It’s a great time to be an MLS fan.
Welcoming San Diego FC
What better way to celebrate 30 seasons than by welcoming a 30th team? In 2025, San Diego FC will officially join the league, bringing Major League Soccer to a passionate new market. League expansion is always an exciting time, as it introduces new rivalries, new fanbases, and a fresh wave of talent. San Diego FC’s arrival marks a significant moment of growth for MLS, reflecting the sport’s rising popularity across North America. Fans will have a whole new club to follow, with a unique identity and culture that will add another vibrant thread to the league’s fabric.
Introducing “Sunday Night Soccer”
For the first time, the 2025 season will feature a special “Sunday Night Soccer” game each week. Think of it as the league’s premier, appointment-viewing event. These matches are slated to receive enhanced production, making them stand out from the rest of the weekend’s slate. This new weekly showcase will likely feature the most compelling matchups and, of course, the top broadcast teams. It gives fans a consistent, high-profile game to look forward to every Sunday, creating a marquee event that will surely generate plenty of buzz and, you guessed it, more announcer debates.
A Look “Onside”: The New Documentary
Going beyond live matches, Apple TV+ will also debut an eight-part documentary series called “Onside: Major League Soccer.” This series promises a behind-the-scenes look at the league, exploring the stories, personalities, and drama that unfold off the pitch. In the spirit of other popular sports docuseries, it’s a fantastic way for both seasoned fans and newcomers to connect with the players and the league on a deeper level. The series will premiere on February 21, adding rich narrative context to the action we see every week.
How is Remote Announcing Changing the Broadcast?
Another significant talking point in the thread is the evolution of announcing technique as a result of modern challenges. A user mentioned how many games are now being called remotely, which is a significant shift from the on-site experience traditionally expected. The post noted that confirmed reporter Tannenwald stated there would be instances of remote commentary throughout the season; this has sparked curiosity around its impact on overall quality. Galactic_crewzer pointed out: “By my count, each week there have been an average of 4-6 games called remotely, usually with a few crews doing multiple games in a weekend.” This diversification hints at an operational strategy driving logistics while creating a debate about the effects on play-by-play commentary clarity and context. Although fans remain divided on their preferences, it reflects how technology reshapes sports broadcasting models in real-time, a discussion that is increasingly relevant in today’s digital-first world.
The Shift to Remote Commentary
The move to remote commentary is a hot topic, and it’s not just a minor tweak—it’s a fundamental change in how we experience the game. For years, we’ve been used to announcers being right there in the stadium, feeding off the crowd’s energy. Now, as one fan pointed out in a recent online discussion, we’re seeing about four to six games a week being called from a studio. This logistical shift has fans wondering if the play-by-play loses some of its magic without the live atmosphere. While some argue it makes no difference, others feel the context and energy just aren’t the same. It’s a clear example of how technology is actively reshaping sports broadcasting, forcing us to reconsider what makes for a great call.
Behind the Scenes with MLS Productions
So, who’s pulling the strings behind the curtain? All MLS game broadcasts are handled by ‘MLS Productions,’ a joint effort between the league, IMG, and NEP Group. According to the list of current broadcasters, they kept all commentators on-site at the stadiums through 2024, ensuring that boots-on-the-ground perspective. However, a major change is on the horizon. Starting in 2025, some English and Spanish language crews will begin calling games remotely from a central hub in Florida. This move confirms what fans have been noticing and signals a more permanent shift in broadcast strategy. It’s a peek into the operational side of sports media, showing how leagues are adapting their production models for the future.
What Do Fans Want from MLS Announcer Assignments?
As the comments rolled in, the sentiment expressed by fans seemed highly individualized, often boiling down to personal experiences with particular commentators. While some fans dread the frequent appearance of specific announcers, others find joy in their unique styles. Amidst gripes like, “Obligatory complaint about Bretos,” and questions such as, “Think TT ever gets tired of only doing Miami and LA games?” it’s clear that discerning fans have their favorites but also strong opinions on who should be behind the mic. This highlights the broad spectrum of fan engagement; announcers are not just voices in the background but characters that impact the atmosphere of the game. The humorous quips and playful jabs add a layer of relatability to the proceedings, but they also illuminate how invested fans are—proving that who gets to call the game can be as critical as the game itself!
Stepping into the world of MLS commentator choices provides an intriguing glimpse into how sports broadcasting elicits passionate reactions from fans both good and bad. While some celebrate the arrival of familiar voices that inject energy and excitement, others express frustration over the repetition of certain narratives that can overshadow the matches themselves. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how these dynamics play out in future games and whether the ongoing discussions will lead to adjustments from producers aiming to keep every fan engaged. The vibrant discussions indicate that fans not only care about who calls the games but also how their presence shapes the overall experience, making this a compelling area to watch as the MLS journey unfolds. Overall, you can count on one thing: in the realm of sports commentary, passion and humor are just par for the course.
How to Watch: Your Guide to MLS Season Pass
Now that you know who’s behind the mic, let’s talk about how you can tune in to hear them. With the league’s partnership with Apple, watching games has become more streamlined than ever. Whether you’re a die-hard supporter who never misses a match or a casual viewer looking to catch a weekend game, there’s an option for you. Here’s a breakdown of how to get access to all the on-field action this season.
Subscription Pricing and Options
If you’re ready to catch every single match, the MLS Season Pass on Apple TV is your go-to ticket. It’s designed to be the central hub for all things MLS, meaning you won’t have to worry about regional blackouts anymore. The standard subscription runs $14.99 per month during the season, or you can opt for the full-season package at $99. This gives you access to every live game, including playoffs and the Leagues Cup, all in one place. It simplifies the viewing experience so you can focus less on finding the game and more on the action on the field.
Discounts for Apple TV+ Subscribers
For those who are already subscribed to Apple TV+, there’s a nice little bonus. You can get the MLS Season Pass at a reduced rate of $12.99 per month or $79 for the entire season. It’s a solid perk that makes adding the soccer package even more tempting if you’re already part of the Apple ecosystem. This integration is all about making it seamless to follow your favorite teams and players without needing a separate service or app.
Special Access and Offers
Before you pull out your credit card, it’s worth checking if you can get MLS Season Pass for free. Apple and MLS have partnered with several organizations and companies to offer complimentary access to certain groups of fans. These deals are a fantastic way to reward dedicated supporters and bring new viewers into the fold. It pays to see if you qualify for one of these special offers.
For Season Ticket Holders
If you’re a full-season ticket holder for an MLS club, you’re in luck. Your dedication is being rewarded with a complimentary MLS Season Pass subscription included with your tickets. This is a huge value-add, ensuring that even when you can’t make it to the stadium, you won’t miss a moment of your team’s journey throughout the season. It’s a great way for clubs to thank their most loyal fans.
For T-Mobile, Comcast, and DIRECTV Customers
It’s not just season ticket holders who can score a deal. Customers of certain mobile and cable providers might also be eligible for a free MLS Season Pass. For instance, qualified T-Mobile and Metro by T-Mobile customers have been able to get the pass for free. Similar offers have popped up for Comcast and DIRECTV users, so it’s a good idea to check with your provider to see if you can take advantage of a promotion.
Where Else to Find MLS Games
While MLS Season Pass is the most comprehensive way to watch, it isn’t the only option. If you’re not ready to commit to a full subscription, you can still catch some matches through more traditional channels. This is perfect for the casual viewer or for times when you just want to watch a specific nationally televised game. It gives you a taste of the action without needing the all-access pass.
National Broadcasts in the US and Canada
In the United States, a selection of MLS games are broadcast nationally on Fox and FS1. Similarly, fans in Canada can tune into TSN and TSN2 to watch certain matches in English. While this won’t give you access to every game like the Season Pass does, it’s a great way to follow some of the league’s marquee matchups on cable. Just be sure to check your local listings for the schedule.
Local Radio Options
For those times when you can’t be in front of a screen, there’s always the radio. Every MLS team has a local radio partner that provides live play-by-play coverage of their games. What’s especially neat is that if you do have MLS Season Pass, you can choose to listen to the home team’s radio broadcast directly through the Apple TV app. It’s a fantastic feature for fans who love the unique perspective and passion of their local announcers, blending old-school tradition with new-school tech.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Taylor Twellman get so much attention from fans? Taylor Twellman’s commentary style is very different from what many fans are used to. As a former player, he brings a passionate and often unfiltered perspective to the broadcast booth. Some viewers really connect with his raw honesty and analysis, while others find his approach grating or feel he dominates the conversation, especially during big games. This strong divide in opinion is what keeps him at the center of fan discussions week after week.
Are the announcers actually at the stadium for every game? For the first couple of years of the Apple deal, all broadcast crews were on-site at the stadiums. However, a change is happening. The league is beginning to use a centralized production hub, meaning some English and Spanish language crews will start calling games remotely. It’s a shift in broadcast strategy that fans have started to notice, mixing traditional on-site commentary with this newer, remote approach.
I don’t have an Apple TV+ subscription. Can I still watch games on MLS Season Pass? Yes, you absolutely can. MLS Season Pass is a standalone subscription that you can purchase directly through the Apple TV app, regardless of whether you have Apple TV+. If you do happen to be an Apple TV+ subscriber, you get a discount on the price of the Season Pass, but it is not a requirement to sign up.
I love my team’s local radio broadcast. Can I still listen to it? You can, and the new platform makes it incredibly easy. While every MLS team still has its local radio partner for audio-only coverage, the MLS Season Pass has a great feature built in. When you’re watching a game on the app, you have the option to switch the audio feed from the main broadcast to your home team’s local radio call. It’s a fantastic way to pair the high-quality video with the familiar voices you love.
Besides the announcers, what else is new for the 30th MLS season? The league is rolling out some exciting additions to celebrate its 30th anniversary. A new club, San Diego FC, will be joining the league. There will also be a new weekly “Sunday Night Soccer” game, which will be a premier, appointment-viewing match with enhanced production. To top it off, a new behind-the-scenes documentary series called “Onside” will give fans a deeper look into the stories and personalities of the league.
Key Takeaways
- Commentary Is More Than Background Noise: The intense fan debates over announcer assignments, especially figures like Taylor Twellman, prove that the right (or wrong) voice can significantly shape your viewing experience.
- The Apple TV Deal Means No More Blackouts: The league’s partnership created a single home for all matches on MLS Season Pass, ending the frustration of regional blackouts and making every game accessible from one platform.
- Check for Free Access Before You Subscribe: Don’t immediately pay for MLS Season Pass. Many season ticket holders and customers of providers like T-Mobile can get a complimentary subscription, so it pays to look into special offers first.