CBS Exec VP Tony Petitti Tapped To Run New MLB Network

By John Ourand, Staff Writer

MLB Taps Tony Petitti To Run New TV Network

MLB has hired CBS Exec VP & Exec Producer TONY PETITTI to run MLB Network, which is scheduled to launch in January. A formal announcement will be made this afternoon. Petitti's production skills earned him a sterling reputation at CBS Sports, and sources say he is making the move because he wants to run his own show. At CBS, Petitti reported to News & Sports President SEAN MCMANUS, who has deep relationships with several leagues. "Tony was a strong number two to Sean at CBS Sports, but the leadership position was not available to him," according to a source with knowledge of the deal. McManus: "There are not too many executives that have the programming, production and business affairs experience that Tony has. There isn't a better executive in my mind to take on a challenge like the MLB Network." Petitti will remain at CBS until June 1.

SEARCHING FOR A CEO: MLB in March hired executive search firm Spencer Stuart to find a CEO, who will report to the net's board, which consists of five owners, two MLB execs and two network partners: Royals Owner DAVID GLASS, White Sox Chair JERRY REINSDORF, Red Sox Chair TOM WERNER, Mets co-Owner JEFF WILPON and A's Owner LEW WOLFF, MLB President & COO BOB DUPUY and Exec VP/Business TIM BROSNAN, along with DirecTV President CHASE CAREY and Comcast COO STEVE BURKE. The CEO is expected to collaborate on a day-to-day basis with Brosnan. MLB Senior VP/Broadcasting CHRIS TULLY is expected to be tapped as COO, reporting to Petitti.