How do broadcasters handle accusations of bias in the playoffs? ‘You really can’t win’

National MLB broadcasters Joe Davis and Brian Anderson explained the difficulties of managing fan accusations of bias during postseason coverage, especially when calling games involving their regular-season teams. Davis, the local voice of the Los Angeles Dodgers, faced heavy criticism following his call of a Michael Harris II hit during Game 2 of the NLDS against the Atlanta Braves. Both commentators noted that home fans often view them as disloyal while opposing fans perceive them as biased.

To manage public scrutiny and instant social media vitriol, Davis deleted his social media accounts prior to calling his first World Series in 2022. Anderson, who regularly calls Milwaukee Brewers games, stated that he prefers avoiding assignments involving his local club entirely, noting that legendary announcers such as Vin Scully and Bob Costas similarly encountered widespread criticism during national playoff broadcasts.