Why MLB fans are unable to watch games due to Comcast-Bally Sports blackout: A breakdown of the contract dispute.

Baseball fans who root for a team on a Bally Sports network and use Comcast as their provider are facing a blackout of their favorite games due to failed contract negotiations between Comcast and Bally Sport’s parent company, Diamond Sports Group. As of May 1, Comcast has pulled its Bally Sports channels, leaving fans in the dark when it comes to watching MLB games and other sporting events carried by the network.

Diamond Sports Group, which filed for bankruptcy in 2023, had initially agreed to a six-month extension with Comcast, but the two sides were unable to reach a multi-year agreement. This has left fans wondering how they can still catch their favorite teams in action.

While Comcast may no longer carry Bally Sports channels, other providers like Charter and DirecTV have multi-year deals in place with the network. Additionally, streaming services like Fubo offer all of the RSNs on the Bally Sports network, providing fans with alternative options to continue watching their teams.

The bankruptcy of Diamond Sports Group has further complicated the situation, with the company sinking in debt totaling over $8 billion. However, a recent agreement with a group of creditors, including Amazon, is set to provide the necessary financing for the company to emerge from bankruptcy. As part of this agreement, Amazon Prime will become the primary partner for direct-to-consumer access to stream local channels, including the Bally Sports network.

Despite the blackout affecting fans of 12 MLB teams, including the Atlanta Braves, Detroit Tigers, and St. Louis Cardinals, there are still options available for those looking to continue watching their favorite teams. With the deal with Amazon Prime expected to be finalized by October 2024, fans can look forward to regaining access to their beloved games in the near future.