Friday 28 June 2013

TSN's Roster Moves

There are certain pairs of individuals that have a lasting impression on the world of sports. Whether it be Stockton-Malone for so many years in Utah, Gretzky-Lemieux at the Canada Cup, or McGwire-Canseco as the Bash Brothers in Oakland, some tandems are too good to be broken up. Such is the case with TSN Sportscenter anchors Jay Onrait and Dan O'Toole. If you haven't seen these guys talk about sports, you're missing out. The only problem? They won't be doing in Canada after tonight.

Jay Onrait and Dan O'Toole have accepted a job in Los Angeles with the new Fox Sports 1 channel, and they will bring their brand of comedy as sports anchors to the station starting on August 17. Longtime behind-the-scenes producer Tim Moriarty, aka "Producer Tim", will join the duo in Los Angeles as Fox Sports paid the three handsomely to bring their schtick to American network sports.

Honestly, the loss of Onrait, O'Toole, and Moriarty will leave a void in this writer's sports highlight-watching life. While I fully respect the talent TSN has, these two have made the late-night Sportscenter hour into a sports-themed comedy show. It feels like you're watching two friends talk about all the sports that happened throughout the day, complete with sound effects, props, and all the jokes one can handle.

It's this aspect I'll miss the most. While I'll still be able to listen to their podcast, losing them to Fox Sports, the highest bidder, seems almost New York Yankee-like. It just doesn't feel right, but I fully and completely respect their decision because you'd have to be insane to turn down the reported $300,000-$500,000 each of the three men will be receiving to host the new Fox Sports highlight show. Well done, gents. Heckuva pay day!

Here now are some of the highlights of their time on TSN. Honestly, these guys are extremely talented, and I wish them the best of luck as they move forward with their careers in Los Angeles. Be prepared, America, because the Onrait-O'Toole tandem will change your lives forever!
Jay and Dan examine their Movember moustaches.

Jay's photo shoot announcement is ruined.

Dan's neck got fatter on the weekend.

Jay and Dan... wait for it... DANCE!

Jay and Dan received Schtickys!

Jay's favorite NHL goaltender package: BOBROVSKY!

Honestly, TSN just won't be the same without these two and their nightly hilarious antics that have drawn viewers in since they were paired as the late-night hosts. Best of the luck, gents, and I'm sure Canadian TV hasn't seen the last of you two!

Until next time, keep your sticks on the ice!

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