When Joe Buck made the move from Fox to ESPN back in 2022, it meant that Joe Davis would be elevated to the lead MLB play-by-play announcing role alongside commentator John Smoltz. But fans will likely notice a different voice for Tuesday's Game 3 of the NLDS.
Davis — who also works as the Dodgers' play-by-play announcer during regular season broadcasts — won't be on the call for the Dodgers vs. Braves game at Truist Park. Instead, longtime play-by-play announcer Kenny Albert will step in to fill the role next to Smoltz.
According to The Athletic's Andrew Marchand, Davis lost his voice and won't be able to work Tuesday night. It's unclear if he'll be back for Wednesday's Game 4 broadcast.
Kenny Albert will be on the call for Game 3 and of the Dodgers
vs. Braves on Fox as Joe Davis is under the weather, The Athletic has learned. I'm told Davis (who has lost his voice) is day-to-day.
— Andrew Marchand (@AndrewMarchand) October 6, 2026
Davis had received some criticism this postseason for toning down his excitement while calling positive moments for Dodgers opponents. That was especially apparent during the Braves' Game 2 rally.
Joe Davis is one of the best announcers baseball has… whenever he is not calling a Dodgers game.
— Calico Joe (@CalicoJoeMLB) October 5, 2026
You’re calling the playoffs. Not just a Dodgers game. This enthusiasm here is equivalent to me stubbing my toe.
Get home broadcasters off their own games. pic.twitter.com/64c2Lni8qw
But Davis being sidelined on Tuesday is health related and has nothing to do with his performance. Albert is slated to call NHL on TNT on Wednesday. We'll have to see what Fox does if Davis is unable to go for a second night.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Why Joe Davis won't be calling Game 3 of Dodgers-Braves NLDS for Fox
