This week it was learned that regional sports network AT&T SportsNets failed to make full payment to multiple MLB teams according to a report from Sportico. Now many are wondering if AT&T SportsNet now owned by Warner Bors. Discovery is in a similar position to Bally Sports.
AT&T SportsNets did reportedly make payments to the Colorado Rockies, Houston Astros, and Pittsburgh Pirates but they were “not commensurate with the contract rates.”
This partial payment has raised concerns about the long-term viability of the three networks. Though some have suggested that Warner Bros. Discovery are eager to get out of the RSN business and this may be the first step in that process.
Warner Bros. Discovery has been working with a $48.6 billion in debt after its merger. To help with that it has been cutting shows, laying off staff, and saving money any way it can. Now it looks like AT&T SportsNet RSNs may be the next to go.
The question now is what will happen. Will AT&T SportsNet and MLB work out a deal or will this be the start of AT&T SportsNet shutting down or selling? The question is who would want to buy a RSN right now?
MLB has already said they have a plan in place to offer in-market streaming of MLB games in Bally Sports is unable to do so. It is likely they have a similar plan if AT&T SportsNet also goes under.