Jim Deshaies brings with himself reserve of insight and humour
The splendour and fanfare attached to baseball are unmistakable. And presence of a vivid and well-expressed expert, sharing his critical analysis of the game, makes it all the more interesting. That is what the Chicago Cubs have achieved by bringing in Jim
Deshaies as their new television analyst.
He comes to Chicago after remaining associated with the Houston Astros as analyst – as well as having the 10-plus years of pitching in the Majors. With his enviable experience, and a career that remains illustrious, Deshaies is a valuable addition after
the four-year deal with WGN-TV and the Cubs.
He is replacing Bob Brenly who is now associated with Arizona, having the same position. Deshaies will be part of Cubs’ broadcast team, alongside announcer Len Kesper.
Chicago Cubs’ offer to Deshaies was not only exciting but also promising. Chicago, in Deshaies’ view, retains its own uniqueness when it comes to baseball. Tough as the decision might have been for him to move, the place is different.
"It's so much fun to be in a city where baseball is relevant, regardless of the season the team is having," Deshaies said. "This place is a baseball-mad environment. The Astro guy had a hard time leaving Houston, but the baseball guy said this is the place
to be."
The slot had attracted a number of broadcasters who showed keen interest in it. However, it was Deshaies who eventually won the Cubs’ assent to replace Brenly.
That is largely because, as the Cubs president of business operations Crane Kenney stated, of the understanding that Deshaies has of not only the NL, but also being excellent with insight, colourfulness and humour.
For Deshaies, all the same, this is a rare opportunity because he had always regarded Chicago and Wrigley Field as his favourite road city and ballpark.
Deshaies comes at a different time here. The Cubs have struggled massively lately. Only the past season, they lost over 100 games, something that was disconcerting. But with the recent changes that have come, the rebuilding team has a lot of potential to
change the script.
Therein Deshaies will have a big role to play to only keep the fans enthralled but also buoyant.
"Chicago is a hardcore baseball town, I don't know how much goofy they'll take," Deshaies said. "But from what I've heard from Len and Bob, they've assured me goofy works if you do it right. So get ready for goofy. But get ready for some serious baseball,
too."
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