950 ESPN = 97.5 FM “The Fanatic”… New Lineup Announced (Including Stephen A. Smith) – NBC Sports Philadelphia

Word came out on Friday about some big news and changes for 950 ESPN, a station that has seen its share of changes in its short history. First, the station's programming will be simulcast on the FM dial now too—on 97.5 The Fanatic. So, for those of you who have trouble with AM radio in your car or at home, problem solved. No word yet on the range of the FM station, which had also been an issue for some 950 listeners. Eventually, the 950 AM offering may be more of a home for ESPN national programing and the play-by-play broadcasts of local and national games. 

There's also a new lineup for the local daytime hours. After Mike & Mike, a new show with Stephen A. Smith and Dan Schwartzman will run from 10-12. Then, it's Vai Sikahema and Harry Mayes from 12-2, followed by Mike Missanelli an hour earlier, from 2-7. To kick off the changes, Mikey Miss will be on today with Stephen A., his former partner in New York, and he'll be back at 2 for his regular show. 

Michael Klein reports that the Stephen A./Schwartz show is likely temporary, as is Vai and Harry. At this point, we'd expect nothing more from the station's mid-day programming, which has seen a series of shows hold their slots only briefly. Klein also has some details on why the FM station was added, and what it means for former 97.5 DJs, including 950 program director Matt Nahagian's wife. Truly a tough business. 

Thoughts on the first full-time FM sports offering in Philly? The new shows?