Comcast and Bally Sports have revitalized their partnership, signing a new carriage agreement that brings the regional sports networks back to fans just in time for August. The reinstatement of Bally Sports channels is thanks to a fresh carriage deal between Comcast and Diamond Sports Group, marking a significant milestone that allows viewers eager to catch live MLB, NBA, and NHL action to do so via Xfinity’s "Ultimate TV" package.
Subscribers to this premium cable package will now gain access to the Bally Sports channels, ensuring they won't miss any local games. To sweeten the deal, Comcast is offering a three-month trial period free of charge for those who upgrade to this tier by August 30, before transitioning to a $20 monthly fee. The resumption of these channels is timely, with basketball and hockey seasons just around the corner, adding to the excitement for sports enthusiasts.
Return After Prolonged Negotiations
This positive development follows the removal of Bally Sports channels in early May due to extended negotiations between Comcast and Diamond Sports Group. The contentious talks also led to the delay of a critical confirmation hearing initially set for late July. Now, Diamond finds itself in a healthier negotiating position, an essential aspect of its ongoing Chapter 11 restructuring, which has been ongoing for sixteen months.
“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,” stated Diamond CEO David Preschlack.
The newly inked deal not only benefits Comcast and Diamond but also the numerous local markets they serve. Comcast covers regions home to MLB teams like the Atlanta Braves, Minnesota Twins, Detroit Tigers, Kansas City Royals, Tampa Bay Rays, and Miami Marlins, which means a significant number of fans will regain access to their favorite sports broadcasts.
Future Negotiations on the Horizon
Diamond Sports Group isn't stopping here. The company aims to secure new digital-rights agreements with the NBA and NHL, enabling broader access and potentially streamlining the fan experience even further. “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,” Preschlack added. “Once agreements with our team and league partners are complete, we intend to move expeditiously to present a plan of reorganization to the court.”
For viewers, this agreement translates to more convenient options for catching their local teams in action. Bally Sports’ streaming app, for example, offers in-market options to watch games for fans of the Marlins, Rays, Royals, and Tigers. However, Braves and Twins fans currently face fewer options, with the app not providing coverage for their teams.
A Strategic Move to Secure Viewer Loyalty
This deal appears to be a strategic move aimed at securing viewer loyalty amid a changing sports media landscape. The renewed access to Bally Sports channels through Comcast arrives just as the fall sports calendar warms up, making it a pivotal time for both Diamond and Comcast. For Diamond, this solidifies their market presence as they work through their restructuring phase, while for Comcast, it means bolstering their content offerings to attract and retain subscribers.
The comprehensive scope of the agreement encompasses 12 MLB teams, reaffirming Diamond's commitment to maintaining its influential position in the regional sports network sphere. This renewed partnership not only alleviates the frustrations of fans who endured the blackout period but also sets a promising precedent for future carriage agreements and digital rights negotiations.
In summary, the new agreement between Comcast and Bally Sports is a win for sports fans, who can once again enjoy local MLB, NBA, and NHL broadcasts. It’s also a critical progression for Diamond Sports Group as it navigates through its Chapter 11 restructuring. With attention now turning to securing agreements with the NBA and NHL, the future looks promising for this revitalized broadcasting partnership.