Mariners broadcaster defends AI use after unjust criticism

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Mariners broadcaster defends AI use after unjust criticism

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Dan Benton | Last updated Apr 17, 2026 8:35 AM ET

Seattle Mariners broadcaster Angie Mentink, a respected figure in MLB media since 1997, recently faced unwarranted online criticism after a short video surfaced showing her using Google Gemini to generate ideas for postgame interview questions following a tough loss.

Mentink responded with grace and humor on social media, explaining that she was simply experimenting with the tool as a learning aid to supplement her own prepared questions, noting the evolution from pen and paper in her early career.

Currently asking AI how to handle going viral for using AI.

In all seriousness, I'm late to the AI party. Earlier this season I experimented with AI to see if it had any questions to add to my list for my postgame coverage. We've come a long way from pen and paper when I…
— Angie Mentink (@AngieMentink) April 16, 2026

The backlash is particularly concerning given Mentink’s breast cancer survival and recovery from a stroke in February that left her paralyzed on her left side. She had only recently returned to the booth, focusing on regaining her bearings with support from the Mariners organization.

Any criticism in this context appears insensitive and misguided.

Further complicating the matter is the video’s unauthorized recording and release without her knowledge or consent. Filmed by a fan at a game and posted online with a mocking tone, it raises serious questions about privacy in public spaces and the ethics of sharing such footage to provoke backlash.

Mentink has handled the episode professionally, underscoring her dedication amid personal challenges.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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