Bob Socci is the "new play-by-play voice for Patriots broadcasts" on Boston-based WBZ-FM, according to Chad Finn of the BOSTON GLOBE. Socci replaces Gil Santos, who retired after last season. Socci has "called Navy football games on the radio for the past 16 years." He also is the "lead voice for Patriot League college basketball broadcasts on the CBS Sports Network and is in his first season as one of the two radio voices" of the Triple-A Int'l League Pawtucket Red Sox. Socci will be "paired with analyst Scott Zolak, who will be entering his third season as part of the Patriots broadcast team." Socci interviewed at the station Feb. 15 but "did not have a formal audition with Zolak." Socci will "leave the PawSox job" July 1 (BOSTON GLOBE, 4/25). PawSox President Mike Tamburro said, "It’s a remarkable opportunity for Bob and I know (landing the Pats’ gig) is something that’s been a lifelong goal. When an opportunity like this comes along, you applaud, and that’s what we’re doing." In Massachusetts, Brendan McGair notes Socci already is "thinking about the difficulties of replacing a local broadcasting legend." His New England roots have "a lot to do with his high level of appreciation for the work of his predecessor." Socci said, "I have tremendous reverence for the legacy that exists, but Scott and I are going to work to create our own and build on the one that exists." While Socci is "technically an employee" of WBZ, he was "still subject to approval from the Patriots" (PAWTUCKET TIMES, 4/25).
