The impending shake-up at SportsRadio 94WIP is starting to take shape as the station announced Thursday it has hired former Eagles fullback Jon Ritchie and ex-97.5 The Fanatic evening host Joe DeCamera to take over the late morning "Mike and Ike Show," effective Monday in the 10 a.m.-12 p.m. slot.
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As a result of the new line-up, Ike Reese will move to the afternoon slot as a permanent anchor on a team that has been rotating since the ouster of former afternoon host Josh Innes in late August. Co-host Michael Barkann, a veteran at Comcast SportsNet, will presumably be out of the station's on-air roster despite a contract with WIP that runs until next summer. He joined WIP in 2011.
"We are thrilled to add this new show featuring Joe and Jon,” CBS Radio Senior VP and Market Manager David Yadgaroff said in a statement. “As a player, Jon Ritchie embodied the hard-working nature of our fine city. As a host, he will connect with the fans and share their passion for our local teams. Joe has proven himself to be a strong voice for the Philadelphia. We are excited to have them.”
Ritchie, a Pennsylvania native, was a fan favorite on the Eagles in 2003-2004 after coming over from the Oakland Raiders in free agency. Since his retirement from the NFL, he has had success in the media with NBC Sports Media, DirecTV and the nationally syndicated late night Artie Lange Show. He's also been a contributor to Comcast SportsNet's regional NFL coverage.
"WIP defines sports radio to me, and Philadelphia defines passion," Ritchie. "I'm foaming at the mouth because this is a gigantic opportunity to drop truth bombs on a savvy fan base who appreciates brutal honesty.”
When DeCamera left 97.5 The Fanatic earlier in October, there was speculation that he might join WIP as the station moves to retool its programming.
“I'm extremely excited to join WIP and CBS Radio," DeCamara said. "With Jon's background as an Eagles player and talk show host paired with my on-air experience and passion for the Philadelphia sports teams from as far back as I can remember, we’ll provide an entertaining show while connecting with the audience. I look forward to Monday morning when Jon and I can get started.”
An announcement on the WIP afternoon show is expected in the coming weeks.