A deep sigh over SI using AI

It's sad -- but not surprising -- given the loathsome toads that are currently in charge of the magazine that has been the gold standard for sports journalism.

My interest in sports journalism started with Sports Illustrated. Jim Dobey, my father’s friend from the woods, gave me his copy of the magazine when he was done. I was 7 years old when I read a cover story on Gary Carter, beginning my years-long devotion to the catcher. When I was in fourth grade, my parents gave me my own subscription as a Christmas gift. My Mom placed the confirmation note in a gift box, which she wrapped and put under the tree. I also received three posters for subscribing, one of which featured the aforementioned Gary Carter.

I taped the covers to my bedroom wall, creating a collage. I became familiar with writers like Curry Kirkpatrick and Ralph Wiley. Later, as a professional, I studied the archives and became a fan of Mark Kram. Over the years, I’ve had friends who’ve worked for Sports Illustrated in addition to the writers who I wished were my friends. When I was assigned to cover the AFC Championship Game in January 1998, I sat behind Rick Telander, a former SI writer who was then a columnist in Chicago.

It made me sad to read that there have been articles written by non-human entities appearing under the banner of this publication. I am not surprised, though. A magazine that has embodied so many things I admired in the profession is now being steered by some digital frackers who embody some of the very worst tendencies in the publishing industry.