By Phillip Swann
The TV Answer Man –Follow on & X.
Former Sony employee and editor of 4 TV magazines.
TV Answer Man, why would Hulu’s live service add MLB Network but YouTube TV doesn’t? YouTube TV is making more money so why can’t it add the baseball channel? Can you explain this? — Edgar, Trenton, New Jersey.
Edgar, that’s a great question. Hulu Live, the multi-channel live streaming service, added MLB Network on opening day (March 28). That was great news for Hulu’s baseball fans with MLB Network the TV home of live games, in-studio analysis shows and documentaries on the national pastime.
But it was more bad news for You Tube TV’s sports fans. YouTube TV has been without MLB Network now for roughly 14 months although the service has more subscribers than any other live streaming outfit. Some estimates say YouTube TV may have as many as three million more subs than Hulu Live. So why couldn’t YouTube TV use some of that subscription revenue to add MLB Network?
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YouTube TV has not commented, but there is a big difference between it and Hulu Live. YouTube TV has the NFL Sunday Ticket as an exclusive which is a big draw for sports fans. While more baseball fans might sign up for YTTV if it had MLB Network, many of them have already subscribed because they are football fans, too, and they want the Sunday Ticket.
In contrast, Hulu Live does not have NFL Sunday Ticket or most regional sports networks. The addition of the MLB Network is a smarter strategic move for Hulu Live because it enables it to tap the sports audience with one move.
Edgar, hope that helps. Happy viewing and stay safe!
Have a question about new TV technologies? Send it to The TV Answer Man at swann@tvanswerman.com Please include your first name and hometown in your message.
The TV Answer Man is veteran journalist Phillip Swann who has covered the TV technology scene for more than three decades. He will report on the latest news and answer your questions regarding new devices and services that are changing the way you watch television. See the bio for Phillip Swann here.
