MLB Remains Critical of Diamond Sports Group

MLB commissioner Rob Manfred has been critical of Diamond Sports Group (DSG), the bankrupt parent company of Bally Sports. Despite the challenges posed by DSG’s bankruptcy reorganization, Manfred and the league have not yet decided whether to formally object to DSG’s reorganization plan. 

The uncertainty arises from DSG’s ongoing carriage standoff with Comcast, the country’s second-largest cable distributor. DSG’s lack of deals with major providers, including the NBA, NHL, and MLB, further complicates the situation1.

Rob Manfred

While the situation with DSG unfolds, MLB is actively considering a significant, long-term reorganization of its media rights. The league is exploring a nationally focused structure similar to what the NFL has used for decades. 

Such a move would help avoid entanglements like those with DSG. However, implementing a national media strategy presents internal and external challenges, particularly from a labor perspective with the MLB Players Association. Manfred emphasized the need to adapt to changes in the local media environment while ensuring fan access to games. The goal is to create a frictionless experience for fans to watch the games they want1.

Additionally, representatives from Nike briefed MLB team owners on their remediation plans for the much-maligned MLB uniforms. These repairs, set to take effect next season, include better color matching for road gray uniforms, improved sweat-wicking properties, larger letters on the backs of jerseys, and enhanced customization of players’ uniform pants1.

The media landscape continues to evolve, and MLB is exploring ways to enhance fan engagement while navigating the complexities of media rights and distribution2. As the league weighs its options, the challenges posed by DSG’s bankruptcy remain a focal point for Manfred and MLB stakeholders