Former NFL star Cam Newton, known for his illustrious football career, recently ventured into the world of baseball commentary. On his podcast "4th & 1," Newton made a bold claim that Major League Baseball (MLB) is a "dying sport" and predicted it would be surpassed in popularity by the WNBA within two decades. This statement has sparked significant backlash from fans and players alike, especially considering MLB's recent surge in attendance and viewership. Despite Newton's impressive achievements in football, his comments have been met with skepticism and criticism, highlighting the divide between different sports communities.

Newton's Bold Baseball Prediction Draws Criticism

Newton's assertion that baseball is on the decline and will eventually be overtaken by the WNBA has drawn ire from many quarters. Fans and players have taken to social media to express their dissatisfaction with his analysis. Notably, Pittsburgh Pirates legend Andrew McCutchen criticized Newton for what he perceived as an uninformed opinion. McCutchen, a former National League MVP, pointed out that Newton's remarks lacked depth and understanding of the sport, suggesting that he was not well-versed in baseball.

McCutchen's response resonated with many baseball enthusiasts who felt that Newton's comments were both misguided and disrespectful. The former MVP emphasized that Newton's take seemed to come from someone unfamiliar with the intricacies of baseball. This sentiment was echoed by other fans and players who argued that Newton should focus on football rather than making unfounded predictions about another sport. The controversy highlights the importance of expertise and respect when discussing any professional sport, especially one with a rich history like baseball.

Baseball's Resilience Amidst Changing Times

Contrary to Newton's prediction, MLB has shown remarkable resilience and growth in recent years. The league reported record-breaking attendance figures for the 2024 season, marking the highest levels since 2017. These numbers reflect a positive trend, driven by new rules aimed at enhancing fan experience. Shorter games, reduced downtime, and increased on-field action have contributed to this resurgence, attracting more spectators to ballparks across the country.

Moreover, national TV ratings have also seen a significant boost. ESPN's "Sunday Night Baseball" witnessed a 12% increase in viewership among the 18-34 demographic, while FS1 experienced a 24% improvement. Streaming services like MLB.TV set a new high with 14.5 billion minutes watched, representing a 14% increase over the previous year. These statistics underscore the enduring appeal of baseball, even in an era dominated by rapid technological advancements and changing viewer preferences. While Newton's forecast may seem premature, the current data suggests that baseball remains a beloved and thriving sport.