Cubs will switch flagship radio partners in 2015

By Carrie Muskat

June 4, 2014

CHICAGO -- The Cubs are switching flagship radio partners and moving up the dial from WGN-AM 720 to WBBM-AM 780. The team was expected to formally announce the news on Thursday, but WGN Radio executives confirmed the news on air Wednesday.

The Cubs have reportedly signed a seven-year deal with the CBS-owned station to carry the games, starting in 2015.

WGN Radio president Jimmy De Castro said Wednesday "today is a tough day," because of the station's 90-year relationship with the team.

"It's not that we don't love the Cubs," de Castro said. "It's that it just doesn't make business sense on an AM radio station given today's new media opportunities and ways for advertisers to buy the Cubs."

WGN Radio had exercised an option to re-open its contract.

WBBM-AM 780 also carries the Chicago Bears' NFL games.

Cubs radio broadcasters Pat Hughes and Ron Coomer were expected to stay.

Carrie Muskat is a reporter for MLB.com. She writes a blog, Muskat Ramblings, and you can follow her on Twitter @CarrieMuskat.