Philadelphia sportscaster says ‘Hello, Chicago’ to Comcast SportsNet

Leila Rahimi

Leila Rahimi

Comcast SportsNet Chicago completed its talent roster Wednesday with the hiring of Leila Rahimi as a full-time anchor/reporter. She most recently worked for Comcast SportsNet operations in Philadelphia and Houston.

Starting Thursday, Rahimi will appear on “SportsNet Central,” the regional sports network’s nightly sports news program, and contribute to its digital initiatives on CSNChicago.com.

“Leila joins us with a deep knowledge of the regional sports network business, along with a true passion for the local sports scene,” Kevin Cross, senior director of news and original content for Comcast SportsNet Chicago, said in a statement. “Her acclaimed experience in our industry will certainly benefit both our network and our viewers. Leila will be a terrific addition to our stellar talent lineup.”

A a native of Denton, Texas, and journalism graduate of the University of North Texas, Rahimi previously worked for Fox Sports San Diego and for stations in Austin, Dallas and Sherman, Texas. She joined Comcast SportsNet Houston in 2012 and shifted to Comcast SportsNet Philadelphia in 2014.

Siera Santos

Siera Santos

“Hello, Chicago!” Rahimi tweeted Wednesday. "Make no mistake: Loved my time in Philly and at MLB. And very happy to be starting this new chapter.”

Rahimi’s hiring follows that of Siera Santos, who signed on October 14 as a reporter/anchor from KCBS-TV and KCAL-TV, the CBS-owned stations in Los Angeles. Rahimi and Santos fill the vacancies here left by Jen Lada, who resigned to join ESPN in August, and Aiyana Cristal, whose contract was not renewed.