Diamond Sports Group is reportedly prepared to drop almost all MLB teams, with the possible exception of the Atlanta Braves, as they seek to renegotiate contracts on more favorable terms. This revelation came during a federal bankruptcy hearing, where broadcasting attorney Andrew Goldman disclosed that Diamond intends to honor only the telecast rights deal with the Braves, leaving other MLB teams in uncertainty. Jim Bromley, an attorney representing MLB, expressed surprise at this news, noting the league had no prior knowledge of Diamond’s decision. He criticized the move as an unexpected blow, emphasizing the tense relationship between Diamond and MLB throughout the bankruptcy process.
Diamond’s latest message to the league suggests that they want to renegotiate existing deals, leading to a potential overhaul in how teams handle broadcasting rights. Some teams, such as the Texas Rangers, Cleveland Guardians, Minnesota Twins, and Milwaukee Brewers, have contracts set to expire and may explore new broadcasting arrangements. The Rangers have already indicated plans to take control of their own telecasts and distribute their games independently of MLB.
Currently, eight teams remain under contract for 2025, but Diamond has already announced that they will not renew contracts with the Detroit Tigers and Tampa Bay Rays, though both teams still have the option to negotiate new agreements. Diamond’s strategy has raised questions about the future of their remaining deals, as the company previously walked away from a “joint-venture” deal with the San Diego Padres in 2023, allowing the team to reclaim its broadcasting rights. The situation leaves the future of several teams’ broadcasting deals in flux as Diamond navigates its financial cris
is.
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