Comcast and Bally Sports Reach Carriage Agreement for Regional Networks

Comcast and Bally Sports have struck a pivotal new carriage agreement, bringing regional sports networks back to eager viewers just in time for the early August kick-off of major sports events. This significant deal, reached between Comcast and Diamond Sports Group, ensures that fans subscribed to Xfinity’s "Ultimate TV," the premier package, will regain access to live, local broadcasts of MLB, NBA, and NHL games.

Restoration and Access

The channels had been conspicuously missing since early May, a consequence of elongated negotiations between Comcast and Diamond Sports Group. Renewal of this agreement acts as a balm for sports enthusiasts who find themselves yearning for the live-action drama of local games. Those who opt to upgrade to this uppermost tier by August 30 will enjoy a three-month trial period free of charge before the service moves to a monthly fee of $20.

“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,” expressed Diamond CEO David Preschlack. His optimism reflects the significant strides made by Diamond Sports Group amidst its ongoing Chapter 11 restructuring, which has persisted for sixteen months.

A Crucial Victory

The freshly inked agreement represents more than just a return of sports channels to viewers—it’s a substantial victory for Diamond Sports Group. As the beleaguered organization continues to navigate the choppy waters of Chapter 11 restructuring, the return of Bally Sports channels via Comcast sets a hopeful precedent as basketball and hockey seasons loom on the horizon. This victory, however, comes with its set of catalysts and repercussions.

This development also cast a spotlight on Diamond Sports Group's strategic intentions. Having clawed back distribution through Comcast, the company now sets its sights on finalizing new digital-rights agreements with both the NBA and NHL. “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,” Preschlack elucidated.

Implications for Local Teams

Comcast’s extensive market reach makes this deal particularly impactful. Notably, it covers markets home to MLB teams like the Atlanta Braves, Minnesota Twins, Detroit Tigers, Kansas City Royals, Tampa Bay Rays, and Miami Marlins. Yet, the local fan experience can vary. Unlike Marlins, Rays, Royals, and Tigers fans, who benefit from Bally Sports’ in-market streaming app, Braves and Twins fans find themselves with limited options for catching live broadcasts.

The resumption of Bally Sports channels via Comcast not only pleases fans but also spells a strategic enhancement for Diamond Sports Group. By ensuring local broadcasts are available through such a widespread distributor, Diamond fortifies their positioning and provides a clearer path towards revenue generation. Moreover, it reiterates their commitment to maintaining fan engagement while they work on finalizing rights agreements with prominent sports leagues. Diamond currently holds linear rights to twelve MLB teams, underscoring the importance of this renewed access for substantial market coverage.

Focus on Future Deals

With this crucial agreement solidified, Diamond Sports Group turns its focus towards striking new deals with the NBA and NHL, aiming to secure stable and reliable broadcasting rights through digital platforms. This step aligns with the broader move towards digital consumption of sports content—a trend accelerated by the pandemic and one that is indispensable for future growth.

In essence, the restoration of Bally Sports channels via Comcast is a dynamic step towards overcoming past hurdles and restructuring mishaps. It emphasizes the strategic ambitions of Diamond Sports Group to stabilize and thrive in an increasingly competitive sports broadcasting arena. For the countless fans who eagerly follow their local teams, this agreement is not just a momentary win but a promise of continued access to the sports they cherish.