MLB Network Looks To Bolster Live-Streaming Roster

MLB Network has taken its first cuts with TV Everywhere and is continuing to build its list of participating video distributors.

On June 11, baseball’s in-house network, which counts some 70 million linear subscribers, launched its live authenticated stream via MLb.com At Bat for smartphones and tablets, as well as online at MLBNetwork.com. That means authenticated video subscribers to DirecTV, Dish Network, Time Warner Cable, AT&T U-verse, Verizon FiOS, Cox Communications, Cablevision, and Bright House Networks who log in with their TV provider’s credentials can now stream the live feed of MLB Network. That encompasses its live game coverage during both the season and postseason, as well as spring training, plus original, news, and studio fare. The HD-quality streams are powered by MLBAM’s technological infrastructure.

Remaining outside MLB Network’s streaming dugout for now are top-ranked distributor Comcast and Charter Communications. According to a spokeswoman, the network is continuing to negotiate with those distributors, as well as with other affiliates, to deepen its TV Everywhere lineup.

As is the case with MLB Network’s linear telecasts, authenticated-streamed contests are subject to local blackouts. Users in those markets will be provided with an alternative game or other programming

The network’s TV Everywhere debut marked the first time that a league-owned service offered live authenticated streams of its programming on computers, smartphones, and tablets across multiple distributors. Neither NBA TV or NHL Network airs live games on an authenticated basis, and Verizon Wireless controls smartphone presentations of games on NFL Network and other national carriers through its deal with the league.

“Since 2009, MLB Network has provided Major League Baseball fans with the most comprehensive coverage of the game on television through its award-winning programming,” says MLB Network President Rob McGlarry. ”In partnership with MLB Advanced Media, which has been an industry leader in live streaming for over a decade, these new platforms will provide fans with MLB Network wherever they are.”