I don't think you're getting it. ESPN values the different areas they can put you in and how "versatile" you can be. I've even seen Malika Andrews on the beat like a journalist asking NBA players questions. Looks like they are trying to make her into a secondary Brian Windhorst. I just named 5 things Malika does for ESPN
You can only name 1 for Molly. That's your answer, thee end
Let’s be respectful - I get the internet makes people lack decorum. But I don’t think coming at someone who clearly understands these subjects brazenly with “I don’t think you’re getting it is productive.” I speak plainly so everyone can follow you and a lot of you take that at face value as if there’s no nuance behind what I’m saying. You’re the one who isn’t getting the point.
You have no idea what ESPN values or what’s being negotiated. Let’s start there. Stop speaking authoritatively - what you said is the equivalent of a dude trying to WebMD his own medical diagnosis.
So let me very clear - doing multiple things does not in and of itself make someone of higher value. Molly has made more money than most people at ESPN who appear on different things her entire career. The majority of people who make big money in the industry only do one thing (think Chuck and co. - Stephen A is literally getting Chuck Money and that dude works two times a week during the NBA season and a bit during college.)
Everything Malika is a part of is an ensemble cast. She’s not the focal point of anything and is not even popular. You have no idea what she even got paid - it is unlikely that it was more than what Molly was offered. Molly was arguing that she is on the premier show and should be paid like anyone else on a premier show would be. In network television, the A team gets paid a lot even if that’s all they do because they bring in the most eyes and revenue. She compared herself to Malika to point out that she received a raise - so why wouldn’t Molly when she’s more visible, is on air more, and is on the bigger show? Malika’s other duties could be brought up but they’re not her primary role - and she’s the closest comparison to use. It’s a negotiating tactic - a smart one.
That’s part of why they wanted to move her off First Take - if you’re not on the premier show - you can’t demand premier money. Moving her to sportscenter and raising her salary would’ve effectively made her the highest paid sportscenter anchor. But it’s not in the realm of what other people who play big roles on morning shows get. (Think Nick Wright and co., think Greeny, etc.) They basically said you’re not a revenue driver but we value you at the company - just not in this role anymore so you can do other things at a more moderate increase - you would be getting paid more than most people in those roles. But it’s effectively a demotion and they leaked it ahead of time so she couldn’t spin it and she got emotional. It’s that simple.