What Is The Future Of Sports Media? | Mini-Documentary

Summary

The Chicago Cubs' transition from free broadcast coverage on WGN to a new premium Cubs-only channel, created in partnership with Sinclair Broadcasting, marks a significant shift in sports media. This change reflects broader trends in the industry, as teams and networks adjust to the demands of device-driven viewing and evolving fan expectations. The introduction of the new channel, set for a March 2020 launch, signals a move toward more specialized sports content and the integration of technologies like 5G and sports betting. Despite changing consumption habits, live sports, particularly baseball, continue to draw dedicated audiences.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Chicago Cubs will end their long-standing partnership with WGN after this season, shifting to a new premium Cubs-only channel.
• 😀 The new channel will be created in collaboration with Sinclair Broadcasting and will be available via cable and satellite.
• 😀 TV subscribers may be required to pay an additional $4 per month for the new channel, whether they watch it or not.
• 😀 This shift to a standalone channel reflects broader trends in sports media as teams and networks adapt to the changing digital landscape.
• 😀 The Cubs' new network, Marquee Network, will offer live Cubs games, but may look different from current broadcasts on WGN or NBC Sports Chicago.
• 😀 The Cubs need to quickly secure distribution for the Marquee Network, which is set to launch by March 2020.
• 😀 The growing reliance on mobile and digital technologies, such as 5G, is expected to revolutionize sports media consumption and delivery.
• 😀 States like Illinois are likely to legalize sports gambling, creating new opportunities for fan engagement and increased interest in sports.
• 😀 There is potential to integrate alternative content like gambling stats and interactive features without overwhelming fans who aren't interested in gambling.
• 😀 Despite the rise of digital content, live sports, particularly football, continue to dominate traditional TV consumption, with fans carving out time for it.
• 😀 The decline of live sports consumption is often overstated, as sports fans remain committed to their favorite teams and the entertainment sports provide.

Q & A

What is the significance of WGN in the context of Chicago Cubs baseball?

WGN has been closely associated with Chicago Cubs baseball for over 70 years, broadcasting Cubs games over-the-air for free to the public. This long-standing partnership is coming to an end as the Cubs shift to a new media deal.

Why is the Cubs' deal with Sinclair Broadcasting significant?

The Cubs' new deal with Sinclair Broadcasting marks a shift from free over-the-air broadcasts to a premium cable and satellite model. This change will result in a new standalone Cubs-only channel, which could cost subscribers an additional fee.

What will be the impact of the Cubs moving to a premium cable network?

The move to a premium cable network means that fans will have to pay for access to Cubs games through a dedicated channel. This shift follows broader trends in sports media, as teams and networks adjust to changing fan preferences and technology.

What challenges does the Cubs' new network face in terms of distribution?

The Cubs' new network faces significant challenges in securing distribution for the channel. To reach a broad audience, the Cubs must negotiate with cable and satellite providers, ensuring that fans can access the channel, even if they don't want to pay for it.

How might the shift from WGN to a premium channel affect fans?

Fans who are accustomed to watching Cubs games for free on WGN may be impacted by the new costs associated with the Cubs-only channel. The change could lead to frustration for fans who don’t want to pay for a service they previously received at no cost.

What role does 5G technology play in the future of sports broadcasting?

5G technology is expected to be a game-changer in sports broadcasting by improving the speed and delivery of live content. It will enable fans to watch sports more conveniently on mobile devices with higher-quality streams.

How does the potential legalization of sports gambling affect sports media?

The legalization of sports gambling, especially in states like Illinois, is seen as a way to boost interest in sports. Gambling will likely be integrated into sports media coverage, providing additional statistics and engagement opportunities for fans.

Why are traditional studio sports shows in decline?

Traditional studio sports shows are in decline due to the changing landscape of how sports are consumed. Audiences are shifting toward more on-demand, mobile, and personalized content, making traditional studio programming less appealing.

How does the consumption of live sports differ from other types of media?

Live sports remain a unique form of media consumption, with fans dedicating specific times to watch games. Despite the rise of digital media, live sports continue to draw large audiences because of the emotional connection fans have with teams and the live, unscripted nature of the events.

What is the future outlook for live sports broadcasting?

The future of live sports broadcasting is evolving, but live events, particularly major sports like football, continue to dominate viewership. While consumption habits are changing, the demand for live sports remains strong, suggesting that the format will continue to thrive, albeit in a different delivery model.