Thu Oct 02 21:40:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and news article based on the provided text:

**Summary:**

ESPN MLB analyst Ben McDonald drew criticism for his dismissive reaction to an ESPN promotion for an upcoming NHL game between the Chicago Blackhawks and Florida Panthers. During the NL Wild Card Series coverage, McDonald stated he had “zero chance” of watching the hockey game. John Buccigross, a member of ESPN’s NHL coverage team, responded on X by pointing out McDonald’s lack of postseason innings in his MLB career. McDonald clarified his comments on FOX Sports, stating he wasn’t aware ESPN carried NHL games and would always prioritize playoff baseball.

**News Article:**

**ESPN Analyst Ben McDonald Faces Backlash for Dismissing NHL Promotion**

NEW YORK, NY – ESPN MLB analyst Ben McDonald is facing criticism after expressing his disinterest in an ESPN promotion for an NHL game between the Chicago Blackhawks and Florida Panthers. The incident occurred during ESPN’s coverage of the National League Wild Card Series between the Chicago Cubs and San Diego Padres.

When asked about the Panthers’ chances for a three-peat, McDonald responded, “If you say so, good luck to them… Are you asking if I’m going to be watching? … There is zero chance I’ll be watching. I’m just going to be honest with you.”

The remarks drew a sharp response from John Buccigross, a prominent figure in ESPN’s NHL coverage, who took to X (formerly Twitter) to jab at McDonald’s baseball career. “Zero is also how many postseason innings Ben McDonald pitched in his MLB career,” Buccigross wrote.

McDonald addressed the controversy during an appearance on FOX Sports’ “Wake Up Barstool.” He explained that he was unaware ESPN had acquired the NHL broadcast rights and that he would always favor playoff baseball over the start of the hockey season. “As far as the hockey stuff goes, when that thing pops up on the screen, I’ll be honest, I didn’t even know ESPN had the hockey contract,” McDonald stated. “And if I got a choice between preseason or beginning of hockey season and October baseball, I’m probably leaning slightly toward playoff baseball.”

The incident highlights the ongoing debate about sport preferences and perceived bias within sports media. Game 3 of the National League Wild Card Series between the Padres and Cubs is scheduled for later today.

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