A distinguished sports journalist, Mike Blake, has transitioned from his role as the sports editor of the Kern Valley Sun to the Taft Midway Driller. Blake brings a wealth of experience and a rich background in sports journalism, having spent decades covering various aspects of the field. His career spans multiple continents and media platforms, from writing for newspapers to hosting radio shows and even authoring books on baseball. Blake's return to Kern County signifies a significant boost for local sports coverage, especially for Taft Union High School, where he plans to focus on promoting student athletes and community engagement.

Renowned Sports Journalist Joins Taft Midway Driller

In an exciting development for the sports community in California, veteran sports writer Mike Blake has taken up the mantle of sports editor at the Taft Midway Driller. Blake’s journey in sports journalism began in the 1980s when he worked for the Los Angeles Herald Examiner. Over the years, his expertise led him to Japan, where he served as a U.S. baseball correspondent for Sankei Baseball Monthly and became a prominent voice in American sports within Japan through his column for English language teaching programs.

Blake’s career has been nothing short of remarkable. He has held editorial positions at Vette magazine and Kit Car Illustrated, while also contributing extensively to automotive journalism. In Central Pennsylvania, he worked as a senior automotive journalist with Carlisle Events, appearing regularly on WHP-21’s Saturday Morning News car segments. Throughout his career, Blake has authored four books on baseball and appeared on over 400 live broadcasts, including notable shows like “The Larry King Show” and “Up Close with Roy Firestone.”

Blake’s connection to Kern County runs deep, as he spent much of his youth there, enjoying outdoor activities such as fishing in the Kern River. After serving as the sports editor for the Kern Valley Sun from June 2021 to 2024, Blake is now eager to bring his extensive experience back to the region. He expressed enthusiasm about working closely with Taft Union High School’s coaches and athletic directors to highlight the achievements of the school’s talented athletes. Blake emphasized that the true strength of solid sports coverage lies in collaboration with the local community and residents who share their stories and insights.

From a reader’s perspective, Blake’s return to Kern County offers a unique opportunity to witness top-tier sports journalism at the grassroots level. His dedication to highlighting the accomplishments of young athletes and fostering community involvement sets a positive example for aspiring journalists and sports enthusiasts alike. Blake’s commitment to excellence and his passion for storytelling promise to elevate the quality of sports coverage in the area, making it an exciting time for both readers and participants in local sports.