Comcast and Diamond Sports Group have reached a pivotal agreement that restores Bally Sports channels to Comcast's Xfinity subscribers, just in time for a crucial period in the sports calendar. The renewed carriage agreement, essential for viewers keen on following local MLB, NBA, and NHL broadcasts, marks a significant milestone in Diamond Sports Group's lengthy Chapter 11 restructuring process.
Return of Bally Sports Channels
The restored availability of Bally Sports channels, effective in early August, is particularly beneficial for fans subscribing to the "Ultimate TV" package, Comcast's most premium cable tier. These subscribers will once again enjoy live broadcasts of their local teams. To incentivize upgrades, Comcast is offering a promotional three-month trial period free of charge for those who switch to the "Ultimate TV" tier by August 30, eventually transitioning to a $20 monthly fee.
Background and Impact
Initially, the channels were pulled from Comcast's offerings in early May as a consequence of prolonged negotiations between Comcast and Diamond Sports Group. The agreement ended the impasse, allowing viewers to regain access to their beloved sports programming. Diamond Sports Group, which operates Bally Sports, has been navigating a Chapter 11 restructuring that has lasted 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," said Diamond CEO David Preschlack in a statement.
Market Reach and Future Goals
The influence of the agreement is far-reaching, especially in markets with prominent MLB teams such as the Atlanta Braves, Minnesota Twins, Detroit Tigers, Kansas City Royals, Tampa Bay Rays, and Miami Marlins. Notably, Bally Sports’ streaming app provides an in-market viewing option for fans of the Marlins, Rays, Royals, and Tigers, although Braves and Twins fans currently have fewer options for live broadcasts.
Diamond Sports Group holds linear rights for twelve MLB teams and has its sights set on solidifying 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 added.
Conclusion
This agreement is timely, arriving right before the commencement of the basketball and hockey seasons, making it a significant victory for Diamond Sports Group. As the group continues to navigate its restructuring, the renewed collaboration with Comcast ensures that fans won’t miss out on the action. With eyes now set on securing broadcasting rights for the NBA and NHL, Diamond Sports Group is moving toward a more stable future, ensuring sports enthusiasts continue to enjoy their local teams without interruption.