07/13/2021 Broadcast media sure looks different from the days of only three networks, which delivered news reports and refrained from opinion. These days viewers can watch or listen to a wide array of stations and programs, many of which cater to the personal leanings of the audience. Therein lies a challenge for networks balancing profit, audience happiness and what many might still call journalism. Can a TV network deliver what people want and maintain brand reputation, while allowing talent to deliver personal punditry? Many media personalities may want to do further research or consider the public temperature before sounding off. ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith is not known for his shy demeanor. As one of the faces of ESPN, Smith spoke about the popularity and impact of Shohei Ohtani, the Japanese-born Major League Baseball (MLB) star, during his “First Take” show Monday (July 12).