Eric Bach Makes Major League Broadcasting Debut for Washington Nationals

Eric Bach, the Broadcasting and Media Relations Manager for the Fredericksburg Nationals—a Minor League affiliate of the Washington Nationals—is stepping onto a larger stage this week, making his Major League broadcasting debut by calling three games for the Washington Nationals on their radio network. Bach’s assignment covers the doubleheader and Wednesday’s game against the Atlanta Braves at Nationals Park, a career-defining moment and a visible statement for queer inclusion in one of America’s most storied sports.

For Bach, this opportunity is more than professional recognition—it is a symbol of progress for LGBTQ+ visibility in sports media, continuing a legacy of trailblazers who have challenged stereotypes and fostered a more inclusive environment.

Bach’s rise in the broadcasting world is rooted in years of dedication and achievement. Since joining the Fredericksburg Nationals in 2022, he has become the primary play-by-play voice for the team, earning the Carolina League Broadcaster of the Year award and narrating pivotal moments for the FredNats, including their playoff runs.

His broadcast style—described as natural and conversational—has helped connect listeners to the game and the athletes, making baseball accessible and engaging for diverse audiences. Bach’s work in media relations and daily social media content has further established him as a vital communicator and advocate for his team and the wider baseball community.

“I couldn’t be more excited to make my Major League broadcasting debut, and I can’t thank the Nationals enough for the opportunity,” Bach said in the official press release. “My time in Fredericksburg has connected me with so many great players and people in the Nationals organization throughout the last four years, and it means the world to me to be trusted with this responsibility”.

Bach’s debut is particularly meaningful within the context of LGBTQ+ representation in sports media. As an openly gay man, his presence in the booth challenges long-standing barriers for LGBTQ+ broadcasters in professional sports—a field that has historically skewed towards heteronormative narratives and limited opportunities for openly LGBTQ+ talent.

Bach’s openness about his identity—including being featured in a New York Times profile in July 2023—has resonated with many in the LGBTQ+ community and allies, demonstrating the importance of authenticity and visibility in high-profile roles. In a sport where “coming out” stories are still relatively rare, Bach’s success provides encouragement for other LGBTQ+ professionals contemplating careers in media, sports, or any field where representation matters.

Bach’s story exemplifies how sports broadcasting can be a platform for inclusive storytelling. By bringing his authentic self to the public sphere, he not only calls plays but also invites listeners—regardless of gender, sexuality, or background—to feel seen and welcomed in the baseball community. This is especially impactful at the Major League level, where audience reach and cultural influence are immense.

His career path—from Michigan State’s School of Journalism to the FredNats booth, and now to Nationals Park—reflects a growing recognition that diverse voices enrich the narrative of sports, making broadcasts more representative and relatable. Bach’s commitment to connecting with fans, players, and colleagues through both his professional work and advocacy for inclusion sets an example for broadcasters and teams across the industry.

In statements from the Fredericksburg Nationals, the organization emphasized their pride in Bach’s accomplishments: “We couldn’t be prouder of Eric Bach. Eric has been with us since 2022 and has been the voice of the FredNats since 2023, so this opportunity is especially meaningful. This is a much-deserved opportunity for him, and all FredNat fans will be welcomed to a special treat hearing his call during the doubleheader on Tuesday. Make sure to tune in and support him and our big Nats!”.