Negotiations between Comcast cable systems and Bally Sports Networks are at a standstill, making it unlikely for Twins fans in Minneapolis to watch their team on cable TV anytime soon. At a hearing before a bankruptcy judge in Houston, an attorney representing Bally’s parent company mentioned that Comcast’s refusal to negotiate has forced them to explore other options as the impasse continues.
Comcast dropped Diamond’s sports networks, including Bally Sports North which broadcasts Twins games, on May 1 due to the inability to reach a new contract agreement with the bankrupt network and DSG. Representatives from Major League Baseball, the NBA, and the NHL expressed concerns about their future business dealings with the networks as a result. Without a deal with Comcast, Diamond’s survival may be at risk, with the league representatives emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
The judge has extended the deadline for a final decision on Diamond’s future to July 30, despite objections from the fall leagues who need to finalize broadcast plans for the upcoming season. Attorneys representing the NBA and NHL stressed the importance of having adequate time to produce, distribute, and market games across multiple teams and geographies. The NHL indicated that they may not wait much longer for clarity on outstanding matters related to the networks.
MLB intends to formally object to allowing Diamond to continue operating beyond the current season, according to their attorney. The uncertainty surrounding the situation between Comcast and the sports networks has created challenges for all parties involved, including the fans who may not have access to live broadcasts of their favorite teams in the near future.