Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred has expressed his desire to do away with the controversial blackout restrictions that prevent fans from streaming games in their local markets. In an appearance on “The Varsity” podcast, Manfred stated his hope for a future where fans can access any game, regardless of their location.
“What I’d like to see happen over time is, we do our national deals, that we convert some of that local inventory into national inventory. It increases our reach and at the same time, when you think about it, we own the out-of-market rights already, if we control local rights as well, we can sell anything anywhere,” Manfred said, according to Awful Announcing. “You don’t have to just sell in your market. And I’d like to get into a mode, where if it’s not in a national package, the consumer has the ability to go in, buy what he wants to watch, wherever he is, and we get rid of that really questionable business concept of the blackout, meaning not letting people who want to watch, watch.”
This statement comes as a welcome development for fans who have grown increasingly frustrated with blackout policies, especially as more viewers embrace streaming services and cut the cord from traditional cable packages. Currently, MLB’s blackout rules often force fans to rely on cable subscriptions or expensive out-of-market packages to watch their local teams.
Manfred acknowledged the “questionable business concept” of blackouts, recognizing that they hinder fans’ ability to watch the games they want. He envisions a system where, outside of nationally televised games, consumers can simply purchase access to any game they choose, regardless of their location.
However, dismantling the blackout system is a complex undertaking. Existing broadcast contracts with regional sports networks (RSNs) often include clauses that mandate blackout restrictions. These contracts represent a significant hurdle that MLB will need to overcome to achieve its goal of eliminating blackouts.
Manfred’s comments suggest a shift in MLB’s approach to broadcasting rights. The league is increasingly looking to centralize its streaming options and offer more direct-to-consumer packages. This is evident in the recent trend of teams moving away from RSNs and offering in-market streaming options for their fans.
While the elimination of blackouts may not happen overnight, Manfred’s statement signals a clear intention to move in that direction. As MLB’s broadcast contracts come up for renewal, the league will likely prioritize securing greater control over local broadcasting rights, paving the way for a future where blackouts are a relic of the past.
This potential change reflects a broader trend in the sports industry, as leagues adapt to changing viewing habits and seek to maximize accessibility for their fans. If MLB succeeds in eliminating blackouts, it could set a precedent for other major sports leagues to follow suit, ushering in a new era of fan-friendly broadcasting.