Comcast and Bally Sports have finally reached an agreement after months of blackout, allowing baseball fans to watch their local teams starting in August. The deal includes 15 regional sports networks owned by Diamond Sports Group, the operator of Bally Sports channels. Fans can enjoy live MLB, NBA, and NHL games by subscribing to Xfinity’s “Ultimate TV” package.
The blackout began in May when Comcast and Diamond Sports Group couldn’t come to terms on a contract. Comcast wanted to place Bally Sports channels on a higher tier, limiting their reach. However, with Comcast being a significant player, Diamond Sports Group eventually agreed to the deal. This agreement is crucial for Diamond as it navigates through bankruptcy restructuring.
Diamond Sports Group, in Chapter 11 restructuring for 16 months, sought more time from the bankruptcy court to finalize the deal with Comcast. With Comcast on board, Diamond is looking to secure new digital rights deals with the NBA and the NHL. The company holds linear rights to 12 MLB teams, with a strong presence in markets where teams like the Atlanta Braves, Minnesota Twins, Detroit Tigers, and others play.
Fans of the Marlins, Rays, Royals, and Tigers have access to Bally Sports’ streaming app as an in-market option. However, fans of the Braves and Twins might not have the same luxury. But with the new carriage agreement, fans can look forward to watching their favorite teams on Xfinity once again.
Diamond CEO David Preschlack expressed his satisfaction with the deal, calling it a critical step in the restructuring effort. He mentioned that securing an agreement with Comcast was a priority, and now the focus shifts to finalizing deals with the NBA and the NHL. With basketball and hockey seasons approaching, time is of the essence as Diamond aims to present a plan of reorganization to the court quickly.
Overall, the agreement between Comcast and Bally Sports is a positive development for sports fans, ensuring that they can enjoy their favorite teams on their screens once again. With this deal in place, Diamond Sports Group can now focus on restructuring and securing agreements with other major sports leagues.