In working with major and minor league organizations, one comes across a cross-section of individuals, just as in all walks of life. Some seem to simply be going through the motions while collecting a paycheck while others appear to be looking out only for themselves. Yet in many others their professionalism and enthusiasm clearly indicates that they are in love with what they do.
The latter perfectly describes outgoing Springfield Cardinals radio broadcaster and media relations director Mike Lindskog. The engaging Lindskog has been a part of the Double-A Texas League club during all five years of its existence.
In addition to serving as the “Voice of the Springfield Cardinals” on radio, Lindskog served as the media contact for the club. I personally worked with Mike on a regular basis during his entire stint and admire him and his work equally.
It is with great disappointment that I learned Mike’s last day with the Cardinals was this past Friday. His new job will be the play-by-play man for the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes, the Class A California League affiliate of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. The move was reportedly driven by family considerations.
Lindskog came with the team to Missouri when the St. Louis Cardinals bought the El Paso Diablos and moved them to Springfield in 2005. Lindskog had been the play-by-play man for El Paso the prior three seasons and previously worked for other teams in Spokane, Washington and Adelanto, California.
The Quakes’ gain is the Cardinals loss. I wish Mike nothing but the best in his new assignment. His Springfield replacement has not yet been named.
Loved listening to Mike.
February 4, 2010
Springfield, MO – The Springfield Cardinals are pleased to announce the hiring of Jeff Levering as the new “Voice of the Cardinals” and Manager of Public Relations.
Levering spent the previous three years as the Director of Broadcasting and Media Relations with the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes (LA Angels, Class-A) in the California League. He also spent two years, 2005 and 2006, with Fox Sports West/Prime Ticket in Los Angeles as a reporter, associate producer and production assistant.
“The Cardinals are the gold standard in baseball,” Levering said. “From their storied tradition to their outstanding fan base, I am thrilled to be part of such a franchise and am honored to call Springfield Cardinals Baseball. To be in the shadow of Jack Buck, Harry Caray, Mike Shannon and John Rooney in this small fraternity of Cardinals broadcasters is truly humbling.”
Originally from Sacramento, Levering graduated from Chapman University in Orange, California with a degree in Broadcast Journalism. He was also the starting designated hitter on the 2003 Division III National Championship baseball team.
“We are very excited to have Jeff join the Cardinals family” said Vice President – General Manager Matt Gifford. “After a nationwide search, he stood alone with his solid delivery on the air and his ability to promote Cardinals baseball in the community in a positive manner. He’s going to be a great fit for us and our fans.”
Levering will be behind the mic for all 140 games and is paired at Hammons Field with Rob Evans on JOCK 98.7FM.
Coincidentally, former Springfield Cardinals broadcaster Mike Lindskog and Levering pulled off an uncommon swap in minor league voices as Lindskog is now the voice of the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes. Other considerations are still pending…