After just three years, NBC is done with Major League Soccer. In other news, the Phillies have agreed to a 25-year TV deal with Comcast, and the MLB season will start with Dodgers/Padres on Opening Night.
NBC to Part Ways With MLS
- NBC Sports Group has pulled out of the bidding for Major League Soccer rights, Sports Business Daily reported Friday, ending its three-year relationship with MLS after the upcoming 2014 season. According to several reports, ESPN and Fox Sports are currently working on a joint bid for MLS TV rights. (Sports Business Daily)
Phillies, Comcast, Agree to 25-Year Deal
- The Philadelphia Phillies earlier this month agreed to a 25-year television deal with Comcast SportsNet worth $100 million/year. Under the new deal, Phillies games will continue to air on CSN Philadelphia, with local NBC affiliate WCAU airing select games. The new deal kicks in with the 2016 season. (Philly.com)
Dodgers/Padres MLB’s Opening Night Game This Year
- ESPN will televise Dodgers/Padres on MLB Opening Night March 30, the network announced earlier in the week. The following day, ESPN and ESPN2 are scheduled to combine for five Opening Day telecasts, including a tripleheader of Cubs/Pirates, Cardinals/Reds and Mariners/Angels on ESPN. (ESPN Media Zone)
