I see where the Home Run Derby was the most-watched ad-supported cable program of the year so far. ESPN hasn't had so many people watching since 2006, when Florida State took on Miami. State Farm, title sponsor of the HR Derby, has got to be pleased.
What drove interest (other than a steady barrage of ESPN promos)? That the clock's ticking down on Yankee Stadium, one of the last great American baseball venues, was likely compelling enough for viewers to tune in to for awhile.
Here's what the HR Derby was up against:
- The season premiere's of "The Closer" and "Saving Grace" over on TNT.
- New episodes of "American Gladiators" and "Nashville Star" on NBC.
- A special one-hour episode of ABC's "The Mole."
Not exactly must-see TV... -- CA
