Comcast blocks access to 15 regional sports networks in disagreement with distributor over contract terms

Comcast Blackout of Bally Sports Networks Leaves Baseball Fans in the Dark

In a move that has left baseball fans across nine states frustrated, Comcast has blacked out 15 regional sports networks offered by Bally Sports. The blackout, which affects games played by a dozen Major League Baseball teams, is the result of a contract dispute between Comcast and Diamond Sports Group, the distributor of the Bally networks.

Diamond Sports Group has expressed disappointment over the blackout, blaming Comcast for refusing to engage in substantive discussions. Comcast, on the other hand, claims that Diamond has rejected several offers, leading to the cutoff of the sports broadcasts. As a result, Comcast has stated that it will be crediting its customers for the costs associated with the blacked-out broadcasts.

The dispute comes at a time when the sports broadcasting industry is facing challenges due to the rise of streaming services and declining pay-TV subscriptions. With fewer subscribers, providers like Comcast are pushing for tiered subscriptions with higher price tags, while distributors like Diamond are resisting the shift.

While the blackout currently only affects baseball games, there is concern that other sports could be impacted if the dispute continues. Diamond holds the pay-TV rights to games played by 38 teams across the NBA, NHL, and MLB.

Baseball fans of teams such as the Atlanta Braves, Miami Marlins, and St. Louis Cardinals are among those affected by the blackout. Both Comcast and Diamond have declined to comment further on the situation.

As the contract dispute continues, fans are left in the dark, unsure of when they will be able to watch their favorite teams play again.