Minnesota Twins Fans to Regain Access to Bally Sports Networks via Comcast

SOUTHPORT, Conn. — Minnesota Twins fans who subscribe to Comcast will soon have access to their favorite sports team again, following a new agreement between Comcast and Diamond Sports. The deal, announced on Monday, will restore 15 regional sports networks, including Bally Sports, to Comcast subscribers starting Thursday. The networks had been unavailable since May 1 due to a contract dispute, coinciding with the Twins' winning streak and the Timberwolves' playoff run. The blackout was a result of Diamond Sports, the owner of Bally Sports, entering Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings in Texas last March. Comcast had previously attempted to negotiate terms to continue carrying the networks but was met with refusals. Under the new agreement, subscribers to Comcast's Xfinity Ultimate TV package will regain access to the Bally RSNs and will also be able to stream content through the Bally Sports app. David Preschlack, CEO of Diamond Sports, expressed optimism about the agreement, stating that the company is now focused on finalizing deals with the NHL and resolving ongoing negotiations with the NBA, as both leagues' seasons are approaching. The blackout affected several Major League Baseball teams, including the Atlanta Braves, Miami Marlins, and Detroit Tigers, among others. Greg Rigdon, Comcast's president of content acquisition, acknowledged the collaborative effort to restore the Bally Sports RSNs, emphasizing the need to adapt to the evolving landscape of local sports broadcasting. Financial details of the agreement have not been disclosed.