Karl Ravech has spent 30 years as one of the most well-known and respected voices in sports media, particularly for his work in Major League Baseball. The longtime ESPN veteran was part of ESPN's recent layoffs in July, and although he's set to become a (very popular) free agent, there's been no shortage of respect for him. He opted to continue calling games for the 2026 MLB season and the Little League World Series
.On Sunday Night Baseball between the Atlanta Braves and Milwaukee Brewers, Ravech's final broadcast, the support and appreciation from players and his co-workers were on full display, but two notable moments came from Braves pitcher Chris Sale and Brewers outfielder Garrett Mitchell.
Sale was seen alongside Ravech during an interview,
while Mitchell was mic'd up during the game, and each player had their own classy way of sending Ravech off.
"I do want to say before we get out of here, Karl, I have to say congratulations and thank you," Sale said. "Congratulations on playing some more golf, and thank you for the 30 years, man. You were a staple in my living room for 30 years, watching ESPN. You made it fun to watch ESPN, so I just wanted to say thank you for everything you did, man. It was awesome. You're one of the good ones."
Garrett Mitchell and Chris Sale both thanked ESPN's Karl Ravech for his 30+ years covering baseball during Ravech's final broadcast pic.twitter.com/wCNCBdX6TT
— Talkin' Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) August 24, 2026
After Ravech wished Mitchell good luck with his baby, the Brewers outfielder sent his own message to the iconic broadcaster.
"Hey Karl, I wanted to say one thing to you real quick," Mitchell said. "I appreciate all that you've done. I know this is your last broadcast. I appreciate everything that you've done for this game. I've been listening to you for a long time, and it's a pleasure to share this last one with you."
Not surprisingly, Ravech handled the two moments like the ultimate pro, as fans have consistently witnessed throughout his broadcasting career. Ravech was with ESPN from 1993 through 2026, working primarily on SportsCenter and Baseball Tonight, while being a constant at the Little League World Series. He's also done commentary for additional events/sports, including the College World Series, college basketball, golf and ESPN's KBO coverage in 2020.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Chris Sale, Garrett Mitchell had the classiest messages to Karl Ravech on final broadcast
