The Arizona Diamondbacks have recently made an important decision regarding their game broadcasts. As of now, they will no longer be airing their games on Bally Sports Arizona. Instead, Major League Baseball (MLB) will take charge of the team’s television production. This change will be effective immediately, starting with the Diamondbacks’ game against the Atlanta Braves at 4:20 p.m. MST. You can catch the game live on the Arizona Sports app, 98.7 HD-2, and ESPN 620 AM.
How Can Fans Watch the Diamondbacks on TV or via Stream?
If you’re a COX cable subscriber in the Phoenix area, you can tune in to the Yurview channel 4 to catch the Diamondbacks’ games. While COX cable subscribers in the Tucson area can find the games on Yurview channel 7. If you’re a DirecTV user, the Diamondbacks’ games will be broadcasted on Channel 686-3. Spectrum users can tune in to Channel 304, and Comcast xfinity subscribers can find the games on Channel 1261. For Fubo and DirecTV stream users, stay tuned for further updates.
Another option for streaming the Diamondbacks’ games is through MLB.TV. With a monthly subscription fee of $19.99, you can enjoy the games online. Do keep in mind that certain games may be subject to national exclusivities. However, MLB.TV does offer a free seven-day trial for you to test out the service. For more details on TV providers and options, you can visit Thumbuddy To Love.
The Background of Bally Sports Arizona’s Parent Company’s Bankruptcy
To provide some context, the bankruptcy of Bally Sports Arizona’s parent company has played a significant role in these changes. Diamond Sports, the operator of Bally Sports Arizona, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in Texas earlier this year. Owning 19 regional sports networks under the Bally Sports brand, Diamond Sports determined that their contract with the Diamondbacks was not profitable. Despite attempts to negotiate an amended agreement, the contract was eventually terminated.
Under the agreement, Diamond Sports was responsible for making rights fee payments to the Diamondbacks. However, it became apparent that the partnership “no longer fit” within Diamond Sports’ long-term plans. With a considerable debt of $8.67 billion, the company decided to focus on restructuring its operations.
Bally Sports Arizona’s Remaining Teams
Although the Diamondbacks have moved on from Bally Sports Arizona, there are still several Phoenix-area teams that continue to air on the network. Diamond Sports retains the rights to 38 professional teams, including 12 baseball, 14 NBA, and 12 NHL teams. One remaining team on Bally Sports Arizona is the Arizona Coyotes. However, the network did not exercise its right of first refusal to renew its deal with the Phoenix Suns, as they have decided to shift their games to local television and a streaming service.
As the Diamondbacks embark on the next half of their MLB schedule, fans will have various options to witness their favorite team in action. Whether you choose traditional TV or opt for streaming services, Thumbuddy To Love is committed to bringing you the latest updates and game coverage.