Watching the New York Mets can be a less-than-ideal experience in certain situations. Take, for example, the scenario of being on a crowded Q train on a Sunday afternoon, trying to watch the game on your iPhone, only to witness Mets reliever Jeff Brigham give up back-to-back hits and two game-losing runs, followed by a frustrated outburst. These moments should remain private, shared only among those unfortunate enough to be present at the game, and not be broadcasted to viewers at home or on their mobile devices. However, in most cases, watching baseball should be a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Unfortunately, in the age of streaming, it has become increasingly complex to access the various sports, games, and teams. They are now scattered across multiple competing platforms, with terms and availability subject to change at any moment. I used to watch baseball on SNY, a regional sports network, through my YouTubeTV subscription. However, SNY and YouTubeTV recently ended their deal, leaving me without a convenient option. Moreover, even when games are broadcasted on SNY, they can sometimes be aired on other networks like ESPN, FOX, TBS, Apple TV+, or Peacock. As a viewer in New York City, I am also subjected to blackout restrictions on MLB TV, preventing me from paying to watch games.
This frustrating and confusing system has led many baseball fans to resort to illegal sports streaming. The abundance of easily accessible, high-quality streaming sites is a testament to this trend. On platforms like Reddit, fans openly discuss and share these streaming alternatives, acknowledging the piracy aspect. For instance, fans of the Cincinnati Reds express their desire for more convenient viewing options. Angels, Diamondbacks, and Cardinals fans face similar challenges in accessing their favorite team’s games. In a satirical twist, someone suggests renaming teams based on the best way to watch their games in their respective home markets.
The ease of online video piracy has increased in recent years, as highlighted in a report from The Guardian. The number of people resorting to illegal sports streaming surged during the pandemic, when individuals were confined to their homes and seeking entertainment. In fact, even before the pandemic, a significant portion of Millennials admitted to watching illegal streams of live sports. This trend alarmed industry experts, who feared that pirated sports content would become normalized among young people. Now, we find ourselves either streaming illegally or reluctantly resorting to radio broadcasts as if it were a deliberate lifestyle choice.
To make matters more convoluted, Big Tech companies have been aggressively pursuing live sports streaming rights. The MLB has struck deals with Apple TV+ and NBC, leading to exclusive streaming arrangements for certain games. Amazon Prime Video has also entered the scene by acquiring streaming rights for Yankees games. Meanwhile, many regional sports networks are struggling, with Diamond Sports filing for bankruptcy. The league has even taken over the production and distribution of San Diego Padres games due to the network’s financial troubles. This fragmentation of broadcasting rights and increasing number of subscription services make it difficult for viewers to determine where and how to watch their favorite teams.
Ironically, streaming services were initially intended to simplify and reduce costs for consumers who prefer not to subscribe to cable packages. However, for game enthusiasts, the process has become more complicated and expensive. To watch a game, one must navigate through multiple premium subscription services, treating them as channels. In the past, it was straightforward—we would go to work and later enjoy the game on TV. Week after week, we would dutifully support our favorite teams alongside their well-paid athletes. This is how it should be—a seamless connection between fans and the game, unhampered by any obstacles, including legal constraints.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
