The Detroit Tigers and other MLB teams are canceling their TV contracts with FanDuel Sports Network due to financial instability within the network, which is struggling to stay afloat amid industry-wide challenges and potential bankruptcy. Teams are exploring alternative broadcasting options, including moving to MLB's own media platform, as the regional sports network industry faces declining revenues and viewership shifts to streaming.
The Atlanta Braves and eight other MLB teams have canceled their contracts with FanDuel Sports Network due to financial issues faced by Main Street Sports Group, which owns the network. MLB may step in to broadcast the games as the league has previously taken over broadcasts when teams faced payment issues. The situation also affects NBA and NHL partnerships, with negotiations ongoing for payments.
The St. Louis Blues, FanDuel Sports Network, and 101 ESPN announced a restructured broadcast model for next season, featuring Chris Kerber and Joey Vitale in expanded TV roles, new hosting duties, and a focus on fan engagement, while bidding farewell to John Kelly as the TV play-by-play voice.
Amazon Prime will stream Detroit Pistons, Red Wings, and Tigers games through a new multi-year agreement with Diamond Sports Group, starting December 5. Fans can purchase single games for $6.99 via Amazon Prime or the FanDuel Sports Network app. The deal includes FanDuel's 16 regional sports networks, allowing fans in designated areas to subscribe for additional fees. This partnership follows Diamond's Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization, with Amazon investing in the company amid its financial troubles.
FanDuel Sports Network, the television home for the Cleveland Cavaliers and 12 other NBA teams, will soon be available as an add-on subscription on Amazon's Prime Video. This partnership aims to expand the network's reach and enhance viewer experience, although details on pricing and launch date remain undisclosed. The move follows Diamond Sports Group's previous plans for a significant investment from Amazon, which were later canceled.
Diamond Sports Group has reached a multiyear agreement with Prime Video to offer its 16 regional sports network channels as an add-on subscription, expanding its reach to fans in 31 states. This partnership is part of Diamond's efforts to reorganize amid Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings, with a final hearing on its reorganization plan scheduled soon. The company will also offer single-game pricing for NBA and NHL games starting December 5, alongside monthly and season pass options.
The Cincinnati Reds will have a new television partner for the 2025 season after failing to reach a new broadcast rights deal with Diamond Sports Group, which owns FanDuel Sports Network. The Reds sold their stake in the network for just $1, having previously taken less money annually to acquire it. This change may simplify fan access to games, potentially through MLB's direct-to-consumer model. Additionally, the Reds announced changes to their 2025 promotions, including less frequent use of City Connect uniforms and fireworks, and dates for bobblehead giveaways.
