Will Ferrell's Home Run Derby commentary leads angry fans' gripes with Netflix broadcast: 'Putrid stuff'
Baseball fans are known for their enthusiasm, but this year's Home Run Derby broadcast on Netflix has left many fuming. For the first time, the streaming service has taken on the task of broadcasting the event, and it seems they've struck out with fans. At the centre of the outrage is comedian Will Ferrell, who joined the broadcast alongside Luke Wilson and Jimmy Tatro.
Ferrell's awkward commentary, which kicked off with the question "Are you ready to watch some balls go very far into the air?", has left fans cringing. "I love Will Ferrell, he's arguably the most important comedic figure of my childhood. Hearing him instead of Chris Berman at the Derby breaks my heart," one fan wrote on X. Another fan bluntly stated, "I'm not sure if this is a hot take or not, but I find will ferrell insufferable. instant turn off anything he's in." It's clear that Ferrell's involvement has been a major turn-off for many fans.
But Ferrell isn't the only one to blame. Fans are also taking issue with Netflix's camera work, which they claim has been subpar. "they fixed the Derby format, it's pretty much perfect, but Netflix is giving the worst camera angles imaginable for 90% of swings," a fan wrote. Another fan pointed out that the broadcast was often showing only the ball-thrower on some swings, leaving viewers with a confusing and frustrating viewing experience. "this has been one of the worst home run derby broadcasts I have ever watched. they're straight up not showing many of the swings. no exit velocity. taking the wrong camera constantly. putrid stuff from ye olde Netflix," a third fan typed.
The lack of exit velocity and basic launch angle metrics on every homer hit in the Derby has also left fans feeling shortchanged. "any national broadcast would've done a better job," a fan noted. As the Home Run Derby continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how fans will react to the rest of the broadcast. Will Netflix be able to win back the trust of disgruntled fans, or will this be a strikeout for the streaming service? One thing is certain – baseball fans will be watching with interest to see how the rest of the event unfolds.
Source: NYPOST
