The widely considered top candidate to be the new co-host of the 98.5 The Sports Hub morning show is getting the gig.

Rob “Hardy” Poole, who has been a staple on the 98.5 midday show, has been named the co-host of the morning show with longtime host Fred Toucher — who made the announcement on Tuesday.

There has been an opening on “Toucher and Rich” since last month when Rich Shertenlieb left the most popular sports talk radio morning show in the region.

Toucher, who recently signed a multiyear contract to stay with 98.5, announced Hardy’s move during the show on Tuesday.

“Starting on January 4th, there will be a new member of this show, and that person’s name is Rob ‘Hardy’ Poole,” Toucher said on air. “He has signed a contract, and it is official.”

Beasley Media Group announced that the morning show will be named “Toucher & Hardy.”

Hardy joining the morning show is “not much of a surprise,” Toucher noted.

“The cat is finally out of the bag,” Hardy said after the announcement, saying he was humbled and grateful to get the highly coveted position.

As soon as Toucher found out that Shertenlieb may be leaving the show, Toucher said he had one name in mind to replace him: Hardy.

“Because I’ve known him for almost as long as I’ve known Rich,” Toucher said. “I consider him a good friend. He’s someone that I talk to, who makes me laugh in my personal life. He’s extremely talented with production.”

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Speculation has been swirling about Hardy moving to the morning show for weeks.

Hardy has been a strong third chair on “Zolak and Bertrand,” playing a key role with production. For the open morning show role, the station was seeking someone who has experience with audio production and editing.

Jim Murray, the third chair on “Felger and Mazz,” from the beginning said he was “100% not interested” in moving to the mornings.

Another name that was being floated for the co-host role was Kendra Middleton, who has been making regular appearances on “Toucher and Rich.” She confirmed that she interviewed for the position.

With Hardy moving to mornings, that opens up the third chair on the midday show.

A Michigan State University graduate, Hardy worked as a rock DJ for 15 years before making the switch from WBCN to 98.5 The Sports Hub in 2009.

Hardy has also lent his voice and creative talents to various platforms across the station, including the creation of the wildly popular “Fuppets” videos for Felger & Mazz. In addition, he has been the long-time host of the “Sports Hub Golf Club” show and can also be heard on Beasley’s Rock 92.9.

“As a lifelong radio guy, I’m thrilled for this opportunity,” Hardy said in a statement. “I’m looking forward to working with Fred and the rest of the morning show crew on what I believe will be a great show.”