The St. Louis Cardinals recently announced a new TV deal with Diamond Sports Group to broadcast local games through the FanDuel Sports Network, which will also include a direct-to-consumer streaming option for fans. This agreement comes as Diamond Sports Group is going through bankruptcy proceedings, leading to the replacement of the existing TV rights deal.
Cardinals President Bill DeWitt III discussed the new deal on a sports radio program, providing insights into what fans can expect. The direct-to-consumer streaming option is anticipated to be available before the start of the 2025 season, with details on subscriptions to be released later. Fans will be able to download an app to stream Cardinals games for a monthly fee, with the possibility of a season-long subscription discount.
One key aspect of the new deal is the elimination of blackout restrictions for local fans, allowing them to stream games in-market. Additionally, those who already have FanDuel Sports Midwest as part of their cable or satellite package will still have access to Cardinals broadcasts. The Cardinals are working on bundling app services with St. Louis Blues broadcasts to enhance the viewing experience for fans.
DeWitt described the new deal as a positive outcome that provides financial clarity for the organization, despite some remaining challenges. The team is focused on investing in player development and improving performance, acknowledging the need to adjust payroll accordingly in future seasons.
Reflecting on recent struggles and the evolving baseball industry, DeWitt emphasized the team’s commitment to staying competitive and delivering results. The Cardinals are looking to lay the groundwork for sustained success and are dedicated to meeting fan expectations.
Interestingly, the announcement of the TV deal coincided with the passage of Amendment 2 in Missouri, legalizing sports betting in the state. This development could potentially impact the Cardinals’ financial outlook and revenue sources as sports betting becomes legalized between 2024 and 2025.
Overall, the new TV deal represents a significant step for the St. Louis Cardinals, offering fans more options to watch games and providing the organization with a clearer path forward in terms of revenue and roster development. As the team navigates these changes, they remain focused on building a competitive and successful future for the organization and its supporters.
