Top Five NASCAR TV Analysts of All-Time

1. Buddy Baker

A fan favorite that was part of the standout NASCAR team on The Nashville Network (TNN), now known as Spike, Buddy Baker’s role as an analyst has transcended media formats, and continued his work until his tragic death in 2015.

Baker excelled on the track in stock cars, winning the 1980 Daytona 500 in addition to eighteen other races. He holds the honor of being one of the select few to complete the series’ grand slam, winning the Daytona 500, Southern 500, Coca-Cole 600, and the Aaron’s 499 at Talladega. His strength in the car translated into a long term role with CBS Sports and World Sports Enterprises, commentating on NASCAR and ASA action.

After his time on television came to an end as TNN became Spike, he would find a new role to make his voice heard – as a host on SiriusXM Radio. He partnered over the years with notable motorsports journalists like John Kernan, Brad Gillie, and Jim Noble. Regrettably, his time in that role was cut short by a hard-fought battle with lung cancer, to which he succumbed in August 2015.

Many fans to this day remember watching Buddy Baker on the track, and seeing him in the booth, bringing the same amount of excitement and energy to both. He transcended generations of NASCAR racing, competing through the 70s, 80s, and 90s, and continuing to remain relevant through his insightful commentary into the modern day. He is surely missed by all those who knew him, and heard his passion for the sport.

Next: A Gentleman On Track and On Air