Q. I’ve been wondering if DIRECTV will have the new channel with the Chicago Cubs. I know it doesn’t carry the Dodgers in LA, but what about the Cubbies? — Dave, Chicago.
Dave, you’re right. DIRECTV (and every other major pay TV provider in the Los Angeles area, except for Charter) has refused to carry SportsNet LA, the TV home of the Los Angeles Dodgers. The satcaster has maintained that SportsNet LA is asking for too much money.
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The satcaster’s decision has made some wonder if it would carry the Marquee Sports Network, the new TV home of the Chicago Cubs. But I have some news for you, Dave. The answer is…Cubs Win!
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AT&T, which owns DIRECTV, and Sinclair, the owner of the new Cubs channel, yesterday announced a new multi-year contract allowing AT&T’s TV services (which also includes U-verse and AT&T TV Now) to keep more than 100 Sinclair-owned local stations in their lineup.
The new pact also includes long-term carriage for Sinclair’s ‘Fox’ regional sports channels, the Tennis Channel, the Yes Network, of which Sinclair is a partner, and the Marquee Sports Network.
The announcement does not include any details, but it’s expected that the Marquee Sports Network will be available on DIRECTV, U-verse, and the live streaming service, AT&T TV Now. All three offer service in the Chicago market.
Like other regional sports channels that offer professional sports, the Cubs games will only be available in the Chicago area.
Have a question about new TV technologies? Send it to The TV Answer Man at swann@tvpredictions.com. Please include your first name and hometown in your message.
— Phillip Swann
will we be able to see cubs games here on west coast? will it be part of mlb package for directv?
Yes.
Will the Cubs channel be available on the DirecTV sports package and carry the spring training games beginning 2/22?
Will the Cubs channel be part of the DirecTV sports package with spring training beginning 2/22? I also have the MLB package.