In a significant move for sports viewers just in time for the onset of August, Comcast and Bally Sports have finalized a new carriage agreement. This pivotal deal ensures the return of the regional sports networks to Comcast’s Xfinity subscribers, marking the end of a months-long hiatus caused by prolonged negotiations.
Landmark Agreement Between Comcast and Diamond Sports Group
The new deal, forged between Comcast and Diamond Sports Group, heralds a renewed era for enthusiasts of local broadcasts. Subscribers to Xfinity’s "Ultimate TV" package, the provider’s premier cable tier, will now have access to live, local MLB, NBA, and NHL games. To sweeten the offer, Comcast is extending a three-month trial period free of charge for those who upgrade to this package before August 30, transitioning thereafter to a $20 monthly fee.
Reflecting on the process, the channels initially went dark in early May amid the contentious negotiations. The confirmation hearing for the agreement, initially slated for July 29 and 30, was subsequently postponed. The successful negotiation represents a crucial milestone for Diamond Sports Group, currently entrenched in a Chapter 11 restructuring process spanning sixteen months.
Crucial Victory for Diamond’s Chapter 11 Restructuring
“Entering a new carriage agreement with Comcast, our third largest distributor, is a critical step forward in our restructuring effort, and we are pleased that fans will again be able to access broadcasts of their local teams through Xfinity,” said Diamond CEO David Preschlack. This victory is particularly significant as Diamond seeks to secure new digital-rights agreements with both the NBA and NHL.
Diamond’s efforts to restructure and stabilize its operations are now focused on finalizing an agreement with the NHL and resolving ongoing negotiations with the NBA. Preschlack emphasized the urgency of these developments: “With certainty on our distribution, we are focused on finalizing an agreement with the NHL and resolving our ongoing negotiations with the NBA. We are mindful that time is of the essence with basketball and hockey seasons fast approaching, and once agreements with our team and league partners are complete, we intend to move expeditiously to present a plan of reorganization to the court.”
Impact on MLB Markets and Viewers
Comcast’s extensive presence in major MLB markets ensures that fans across various cities will benefit from this renewed accessibility. Teams that will particularly gain from this agreement include the Atlanta Braves, Minnesota Twins, Detroit Tigers, Kansas City Royals, Tampa Bay Rays, and Miami Marlins.
Fans in these markets will have different options to follow their teams. Bally Sports’ streaming app is available for Marlins, Rays, Royals, and Tigers enthusiasts, offering an in-market option to watch games. However, Braves and Twins fans face limited choices for live broadcasts due to the unavailability of the Bally Sports streaming app, indicating a disparity that may need addressing in future agreements.
Preparing for Upcoming Seasons
The timing of this renewed access is fortuitous, aligning perfectly with preparations for the upcoming NBA and NHL seasons. Diamond Sports Group aims to pivot promptly towards sealing deals with these leagues, ensuring fans can continue to enjoy uninterrupted access to their favorite sports.
Overall, the achievement of this agreement stands as a beacon of progress amid Diamond Sports Group’s restructuring journey. It underscores a mutual commitment by Comcast and Bally Sports to deliver high-quality sports content to their dedicated viewers, setting a positive tone for the forthcoming seasons of basketball and hockey.