Major League Baseball (MLB) teams previously broadcast by FanDuel Sports Network have reportedly terminated their agreements with the embattled network and its parent company, Main Street Sports Group, according to a report by The Athletic.
The affected clubs include the Atlanta Braves, Cincinnati Reds, Detroit Tigers, and Kansas City Royals. They also include the Los Angeles Angels, Miami Marlins, Milwaukee Brewers, St. Louis Cardinals, and Tampa Bay Rays. While the terminations remove their current contracts, the report states the teams could still negotiate new arrangements in the future. During Main Street’s prior bankruptcy period, from 2023 to 2025 when the company operated as Diamond Sports Group, contracts were initially canceled but later renegotiated.
“We remain in active dialogue with all of our team partners regarding potential revised terms for agreements going forward,” Main Street said in a statement Thursday.
The move is seen as a protective measure. By ending the existing agreements, MLB clubs aim to limit potential complications if Main Street files for bankruptcy. Such a situation could restrict how teams manage broadcast rights and revenue.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred addressed the situation Thursday in New York, noting the league is prepared to assume broadcasts for any team if necessary. Manfred emphasized that maximizing revenue remains a key focus.
“Our focus, particularly given the point in the calendar, is to maximize the revenue that’s available to the clubs, whether that’s MLB Media or third party,” Manfred said. “The clubs have control over the timing. They can make a decision to move to MLB Media because of the contractual status now. Clubs are evaluating their alternatives to find the best revenue source for the year and the best outlet for providing quality broadcasts to their fans.”
Details about missed payments have emerged, underscoring the network’s instability. Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald reported Thursday that Main Street failed to make a scheduled payment to the Marlins. The company had also reportedly missed a payment to the Cardinals in December.
Meanwhile, industry sources suggest potential buyers are monitoring Main Street. Sports Business Journal reports that streaming service Fubo has expressed interest. Meanwhile, talks with DAZN appear less likely to yield a deal.
Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.
