Hazel Mae: The Trailblazing Voice of the Toronto Blue Jays
In the high-pressure world of Major League Baseball broadcasting, few figures are as recognizable or as beloved as Hazel Mae. As a veteran on-field reporter for Sportsnet, Mae has spent over two decades bridging the gap between the diamond and the fans. From navigating the intensity of the dugout to becoming a symbol of representation for women of colour in sports media, her journey is a testament to resilience and professional excellence.
- Industry Veteran: Boasts a 25-year career in sports broadcasting, primarily with Sportsnet.
- Global Experience: Served as the lead anchor for New England Sports Network (NESN) in Boston from 2004 to 2008.
- Trailblazer: A Filipino-Canadian journalist who has broken barriers as a woman of colour in a male-dominated industry.
- Upcoming Projects: Set to release a memoir this fall detailing her professional and personal experiences.
A Career Built on Versatility and Resilience
Hazel Mae’s path in broadcasting began at York University, where she hosted a campus sports update show. This early experience paved the way for her tenure at Rogers Sportsnet, where she anchored the morning edition of Sportsnetnews and hosted JZone, a weekly magazine show dedicated to the Toronto Blue Jays. Her early days at the network included providing sports updates to radio affiliates across Ontario.
The Boston Chapter
In December 2004, Mae expanded her horizons by moving to Boston to join the New England Sports Network (NESN). During her time there, she served as the lead anchor for the SportsDesk news program. Her influence in the region grew rapidly; she hosted The Ultimate Red Sox Show and The Buzz, a top-ten in-season show for the Boston Bruins. Her popularity was so significant that she was nominated for the first president of Red Sox Nation, according to Wikipedia.
Returning Home to the Blue Jays
Mae returned to Sportsnet on November 14, 2011, eventually becoming the fixture fans know today. Beyond her work with the Blue Jays, she expanded her portfolio as a Field Level Reporter for TBS MLB Tuesday starting in 2022. Her ability to capture raw, emotional moments—such as her interviews with Vladimir Guerrero Jr.—has made her a cornerstone of the team’s coverage.
Breaking Barriers in Sports Media
Being a Filipino-Canadian woman in sports journalism comes with unique challenges. Born in Tagbilaran, Bohol, Philippines, and raised in Toronto, Mae has used her platform to navigate the complexities of being a trailblazing woman of colour. Her career has not always been a “walk in the ballpark,” but her longevity and the respect she commands from players and colleagues alike highlight her impact on the industry.
Mae’s presence on the field is often marked by the chaotic joy of baseball celebrations. She has become well-known for her poise during Gatorade and beer showers, noting that her dry cleaner certainly appreciates the frequency of these celebrations.
Beyond the Broadcast: A New Chapter
As Mae marks a “golden moment” in her career, she is preparing to share her story in a more intimate format. She is scheduled to publish a memoir this fall, which will chronicle her professional journey and the personal experiences that shaped her as a journalist. When asked about her personality off-camera, Mae has noted that if she had a professional “walk-up song,” she would choose the viral hit “Golden” by KPop Demon Hunters, as reported by CBC.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Hazel Mae join Sportsnet?
Mae first joined Sportsnet 25 years ago, though she had a period away from the network between 2004 and 2011 while working in Boston.
What is Hazel Mae’s educational background?
She attended York University, where she began her career in sports broadcasting.
Is Hazel Mae releasing a book?
Yes, she is releasing a memoir this fall that provides an intimate look at her life and career in sports journalism.
Looking Forward
From the early days of campus radio to the global stage of the World Series, Hazel Mae has redefined the role of the on-field reporter. As she prepares to release her memoir, her legacy continues to inspire a new generation of journalists to bring authenticity and diversity to the sports world.