Comcast and Bally Sports Reach New Carriage Agreement
In a significant development for sports enthusiasts, Comcast and Bally Sports have finalized a new carriage agreement, reinstating the regional sports networks to viewers just as August begins. The deal, struck between Comcast and Diamond Sports Group, ensures that subscribers can once again access live, local broadcasts of MLB, NBA, and NHL games through Xfinity’s "Ultimate TV,” the most premium cable package offered by Comcast.
Reinstating Bally Sports Channels
For fans eager to catch their favorite teams in action, this agreement comes as a welcome relief. The Bally Sports channels were removed in early May following extended negotiations between Comcast and Diamond Sports Group. The protracted discussions even resulted in the postponement of a confirmation hearing that had been scheduled for late July.
David Preschlack, CEO of Diamond, expressed his satisfaction with the new deal: “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.”
Exclusive Benefits for Comcast Subscribers
Comcast is offering a special promotion for customers willing to upgrade to the “Ultimate TV” tier. Those who upgrade by August 30 will benefit from a three-month trial period free of charge before the service transitions to a $20 monthly fee. This promotional offer aligns perfectly with the upcoming basketball and hockey seasons, providing ample opportunity for fans to experience the comprehensive sports coverage that Bally Sports channels offer.
Impact on the Sports Broadcasting Landscape
The new agreement represents a significant victory for Diamond Sports Group, currently navigating its Chapter 11 restructuring, which has been underway for sixteen months. Securing a deal with Comcast, a dominant presence in markets home to MLB teams like the Atlanta Braves, Minnesota Twins, Detroit Tigers, Kansas City Royals, Tampa Bay Rays, and Miami Marlins, is crucial for Diamond's objectives.
Preschlack highlighted the broader implications of this agreement, stating, “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.”
Looking Ahead: Digital Rights and Streaming Options
Bally Sports’ streaming app continues to offer in-market viewing options for fans of the Marlins, Rays, Royals, and Tigers. However, supporters of the Braves and Twins face limited options for live broadcasts due to the absence of the Bally Sports streaming app. Diamond’s strategic focus now pivots towards securing new digital-rights agreements with both the NBA and NHL, aiming to expand the reach and accessibility of live game broadcasts.
Presently, Diamond holds linear rights to twelve MLB teams, underscoring the importance of these streaming and carriage agreements in maintaining audience engagement and viewership. The full restoration of Bally Sports channels via Comcast is a timely development that ensures fans won’t miss out on the thrills of the upcoming basketball and hockey seasons.
As Diamond Sports Group accelerates its negotiations with team and league partners, the sports broadcasting landscape is poised for a dynamic shift, promising enhanced access and coverage for dedicated sports fans nationwide.