In a significant move signaling a renewed commitment to traditional broadcasting platforms, Chicago’s powerhouse AM sports station, 670 The Score, is set to launch a full FM simulcast on 104.3 FM beginning February 2nd. This expansion, backed by multi-platform audio company Audacy, aims to dramatically increase the station’s reach and availability to the notoriously passionate Chicago sports fan base.
The decision effectively doubles down on The Score’s established business model, ensuring that its popular lineup of commentary, analysis, and live play-by-play coverage is accessible across a wider spectrum of listening devices and demographics. Kevin Cassidy, Senior Vice President at Audacy Chicago, emphasized the importance of meeting listener demand.
Doubling Down on Local Passion
“Chicago fans are the best in the world, and they deserve coverage that matches their passion,” Cassidy stated in a press release. “Our roster features the best talent in the city with unmatched dedication to delivering the latest sports news and insight.”
The 104.3 FM frequency, long associated with 'golden oldies' before shifting to hip-hop in recent years, now becomes a dedicated home for high-octane sports talk. Importantly, the existing 670 AM broadcast will continue uninterrupted, meaning listeners will have two distinct over-the-air options for tuning in.
This strategic expansion comes at a time when media consumption habits are rapidly fragmenting. While digital streaming and podcasts continue to grow, terrestrial radio—especially in large, sports-obsessed markets like Chicago—remains a vital artery for real-time updates and community connection. For many commuters or those outside reliable streaming zones, the reliability of FM radio offers a distinct advantage.
The Accessibility Advantage: A Win for Cubs Fans
One of the most immediate implications of this move centers around accessibility, particularly for fans of the Chicago Cubs. Following the controversial removal of Cubs games from local broadcast station WGN after the 2019 season, broadcasts are now exclusively available on the Marquee Sports Network. Accessing Marquee requires a paid subscription, costing upwards of $20 to $40 monthly depending on the provider.
In contrast, listening to live game broadcasts—and the surrounding analysis programming on The Score—remains free via radio or online streaming. By bolstering the FM signal, Audacy is reinforcing radio as the most affordable and universal way for Chicagoans to follow their teams.
Roster Updates and Programming Shifts
The simulcast launch coincides with recent changes within The Score’s talent lineup. The station has undergone internal shifts, including the departure of on-air personality Dan Bernstein following a social media controversy, and the subsequent hiring of former NBC 5 sports anchor Leila Rahimi to fill a key morning slot.
The refreshed broadcast schedule starting February 2nd will feature the morning edition of “Mully & Haugh” beginning at 5:30 a.m. This will be followed by Leila Rahimi taking the mic from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., cementing a strong lineup ready to capitalize on the expanded FM footprint.
The Future of Terrestrial Radio in the Digital Age
The decision by Audacy to heavily invest in an FM simulcast for a major market sports property like 670 The Score suggests a belief in the enduring power of terrestrial radio when paired with high-demand local content. While digital platforms offer global reach, they often struggle with the immediacy and local market penetration that traditional radio still commands, especially during live sporting events.
Industry analysts suggest this strategy is aimed at maximizing advertising inventory. A presence on both AM and FM signals effectively doubles the potential audience size for ratings measurement, which directly translates into higher advertising rates for Audacy. Furthermore, having a stronger FM signal helps future-proof the station against potential long-term declines in AM listenership, a common trend across the industry.
For listeners, this is unequivocally positive news. Whether they are dedicated listeners familiar with the AM dial or casual listeners who default to the stronger, clearer FM band, the enhancement in broadcast quality and availability ensures that Chicago’s sports conversation remains easily accessible for years to come. The evolution of 670 The Score onto 104.3 FM is not just a technical change; it’s a strategic affirmation that when it comes to local sports passion, radio remains central to the game.
