The golf world was thrown for a loop in June when it was announced that Phil Mickelson and his longtime caddie Jim “Bones” Mackay were going their separate ways. Lefty’s brother will serve as his caddie for the remainder of the season but it raised a question, what will Bones do next? Will he jump onto someone else’s bag and if so, who?
As it turns out, Mackay will remain in golf, but in a much different role than the one we’re used to.
“Weeks after announcing his mutual split from Phil Mickelson, Mackay has signed a multi-year deal to become an on-course reporter for Golf Channel and NBC Sports,” a Golf Channel release said. “His first assignment will be covering The Open at Royal Birkdale.”
That will be something unique to golf coverage.
These jobs are more commonly held by former players. A caddie may be able to provide different insight, especially when talking about someone’s club selection, or the read of a green.
Mackay’s new job will give him exposure in several of golf’s top events.
In addition to The Open Championship, NBC covers notable events such as THE PLAYERS Championship annually, the FedEx Cup playoffs, which culminate in the Tour Championship, The Presidents Cup in odd numbered years, the Ryder Cup in even numbered years, and golf in Summer Olympic years. So, Mackay’s voice will be heard throughout some of the sport’s greatest events.