http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/co ... 428.column
Ed Sherman
On media
5:45 p.m. CDT, July 31, 2014
Dan McNeil has been on the radio host sidelines since the end of June and might remain there for a long time.
That's OK with him.
He says the time off would allow him to work on his short game in golf, and more importantly, pursue writing a book about his son Patrick's struggle with autism.
"I've been thinking about this for five years," McNeil said Thursday. "I want to write about how autism has affected the journey through life for a family in Northwest Indiana. I'd like to leave a greater footprint in my career than just talking about point spreads and pucks."
McNeil should get a definitive answer on whether he can start writing in the next couple of weeks. He has been off the air as co-host of WSCR-AM 670's midday show with Matt Spiegel since the end of June when his contract expired. Negotiations are at impasse with McNeil seeking a substantial raise over a reported salary in the $275,000 range.
McNeil said he wants to remain with the station. But this could be the end of that road for him.
"Everything has been amicable," McNeil said. "It just has taken a bit longer than either side would want it to."
WSCR officials declined to comment on the situation.
McNeil said it was his desire to be out for most of July for family trips while he was in between contracts. However, he regrets he didn't inform listeners of his plans.
"In retrospect, it could have been handled better," McNeil said. "I apologize to my many loyal fans who were left in the dark."
This hardly marks the first time McNeil has been gone for long periods. During his career as a host at WSCR and WMVP-AM 1000, he was suspended for various transgressions. More recently at WSCR, he had two extended breaks while dealing with depression and substance abuse issues.
McNeil said he always will be "grateful" for WSCR's patience during the tough times. However, he carefully chose his words when asked if the station deserved a "home-team discount" for sticking with him.
"Yes, they were loyal to me," McNeil said. "They were rewarded for their loyalty by me continuing to provide big ratings."
Indeed, while he can give headaches to his bosses, McNeil's mix of sports talk and pop culture always has produced listeners, especially in the coveted age 25-54 male demographic.
"As blemished as the 'Macker' can be, he brings in large quantities of male ears," he said.
WSCR, though, could be already looking at alternatives if it can't reach a deal with McNeil. Former Bears Jim Miller and Pat Mannelly did well in fill-in roles with Spiegel. Nothing moves the needle in this town more than the Bears, especially with the football season just around the corner.
McNeil also might have limited options when it comes to sports talk locally. It is highly unlikely he will return for a second spin at WMVP; ESPN reportedly is weary of the baggage that comes with McNeil.
There will be interest from "The Game" on 87.7 FM. McNeil covets a return to afternoon drive. However, his current price-tag probably is too high for the new sports station.
McNeil, though, is optimistic. Noting his love of music and pop culture, he even remains open to do something away from sports.
"I will work somewhere," he said.
If anything, McNeil said he is enjoying the uncertainty of what's going to happen next.
"While some people might find it unnerving, for me, this is very exhilarating," McNeil said. "I enjoy life on the precipice. It keeps me from getting bored."
In the stands: In an attempt to liven up a dog-days of an August White Sox-Texas game, Ken Harrelson and Steve Stone will broadcast Chris Sale's start Wednesday from the "K Zone" at U.S. Cellular Field on CSN.
The K Zone comprises sections 154 and 155 down the left field line. On the days Sale starts, fans are given special T-shirts and strikeout placards.
To the booth: It appears as if the post-football career has begun for Brady Quinn. Thursday, it was announced the former Notre Dame quarterback will be a college and NFL studio and game analyst for Fox Sports. Quinn will work college games with Tim Brando and pro games with Dick Stockton.
Remote patrol: NBCSN says its average daily audience at 148,000 viewers is up 80 percent from a year ago. Huge numbers for Blackhawks playoffs games on the network definitely contributed. … The debut of the 2014 edition of "Hard Knocks" featuring the Atlanta Falcons is Tuesday at 9 p.m. on HBO. … More than 500,000 viewers tuned in for the Hall of Fame ceremonies on MLB Network Sunday. … Fox Sports has added Brad Faxon to its golf coverage team. Fox will air next year's U.S. Open.
Special contributor Ed Sherman writes at shermanreport.com. Follow him @Sherman_Report
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(Calls him back.) Ok. 300k.
