​Robert Flores has spent nearly as long with MLB Network as he did with ESPN, a journey that began after he left the longtime SportsCenter anchor chair in 2016. Today he stands out as a familiar on-air presence for MLB Network and as a voice fans hear in the MLB The Show video game series. Flores co-hosts MLB Central alongside Mark DeRosa and Lauren Shehadi, and this week he’ll be part of MLB Network’s coverage of the All-Star Game festivities, marking his sixth time at the event. We recently sat down with Flores to talk about his career and his enduring connection to baseball. Note: This interview has been edited and condensed for length and clarity.
How risky was it to leave ESPN for MLB Network? Flores: I knew I was ready for a change after 11 years at ESPN, even if I couldn’t predict exactly what would come next. I was excited about the new opportunity, and I can honestly say it’s been one of the most enjoyable experiences of my professional life. I’d rate the move as having minimal risk. I’ve told the story of how I learned I was losing my spot on SportsCenter through a post by Richard Deitch on Twitter. That moment signaled that I needed to seek a new challenge. So I leaned into the chance for a fresh opportunity, and I’ve never looked back.
Could you elaborate on what happened at ESPN? Flores: Jay Harris and I were hosting the midnight Eastern SportsCenter when word broke on Twitter that Scott Van Pelt would be taking over that time slot. That was my indicator of where I stood at the network. It’s a reminder that this is big-boy television, and I’m grateful for the time I spent at ESPN. I worked alongside some incredible people, and it was a childhood dream come true—to work there. It’s something I’m proud to have on my résumé. But I love where I am now and what I’m doing with MLB Network.
How has your role at MLB Network evolved? Flores: When I joined MLB Network in 2016, MLB Central was just taking shape, with Matt Vasgersian as the host. I was involved in a variety of shows, including MLB Tonight. When Matt decided to leave the show—though he remains a significant figure at the network—the central hosting role opened up. I’d long admired MLB Central and found the format entertaining, so I sought the opportunity to be part of it. I joined MLB Central ahead of the 2018 season and have been part of it ever since. What I find most rewarding about MLB Network is not just the work itself but the people I share the screen with and the sense of purpose that comes with it. It’s one of the most fulfilling aspects of my career.
What is it like to work with Mark DeRosa and Lauren Shehadi? Flores: The chemistry we have on camera is strong, but the real foundation is our friendship off camera. That bond translates to the show, helping it resonate with baseball fans who tune in for both the analysis and the camaraderie. We take our responsibilities seriously: DeRo often emphasizes that the show exists to honor the game and the players who play it. We’re able to balance a sense of fun with a sober respect for the sport, and that balance is part of what keeps our audience engaged. Our goal isn’t to chase SEO or trendiness but to deliver thoughtful, entertaining content that reflects the love of the game. Flores: The dynamic among us—our shared language, our trust in one another, and the willingness to push each other when needed—helps the program feel seamless to viewers. Lauren brings poise and clarity, while DeRo provides a steady, insightful voice that complements the more expansive energy I bring to the table. Together, we aim to create a broadcast that feels like a conversation among fans who also happen to be reporting the information that matters in real time.
In addition to his on-air work, Flores has continued to contribute to MLB Network’s broader coverage and to the beloved video-game franchise, ensuring his presence is felt across multiple platforms. For fans, that means a reliable, informed voice as they follow the All-Star festivities and the season’s ongoing drama. Flores remains grateful for the path he’s taken, the colleagues who have become friends, and the opportunity to share the game he loves with audiences around the world.