A Bridge Over the Racial Divide

This ex-baseball player is using his background to bring understanding and advocate for change.

- By Mark Solheim

PROFILE

WHO: Doug Glanville, age 49

OCCUPATION: Baseball analyst and ex-MLB player

WHERE: Bloomfield, Conn.

What was your path to becoming a baseball analyst?

When I was playing, I always had a good relationship with the press and was fascinated by their work—and I love writing. So it made sense when my career ended in 2005 that I would explore commentary. I was writing a column in the New York Times called “Heading Home” that explored life in baseball. Eventually, I got noticed by other national media, and ESPN hired me. I believed I could have a voice on the social aspect of sports. I saw a purpose behind it, driven by change and advocacy and understanding.

You’re also teaching a college course on sports?