Can You Get Bally Sports on YouTube TV? A Comprehensive Answer and Expert Insights

No, unfortunately, you cannot get Bally Sports on YouTube TV. This has been the case since 2020, when YouTube TV and Sinclair Broadcast Group (the previous owner of Bally Sports) failed to reach an agreement regarding carriage fees. Despite Diamond Sports Group taking over ownership and rebranding the channels as Bally Sports, the situation remains unchanged. You’ll need to explore alternative streaming or cable options to access these regional sports networks.

The Bally Sports Landscape: Why the Difficulty?

Navigating the world of sports broadcasting can feel like trying to decipher ancient hieroglyphics. The fractured landscape of regional sports networks (RSNs) and streaming services creates confusion and frustration for sports fans. Bally Sports, a collection of RSNs previously owned by Sinclair and now by Diamond Sports Group, holds the local broadcasting rights for many professional sports teams across the United States. This means that if you want to watch your local MLB, NBA, or NHL team, you’ll likely need access to a Bally Sports channel.

The core issue lies in the complex and ever-evolving economics of sports broadcasting. RSNs like Bally Sports typically command high carriage fees from cable and streaming providers because they offer highly desirable live sports content. Streaming services like YouTube TV, on the other hand, are constantly looking to control costs to keep their subscription prices competitive. When disagreements arise over these fees, channels can be dropped, leaving subscribers in the lurch.

YouTube TV’s decision to drop Bally Sports (and other RSNs previously owned by Sinclair) back in 2020 highlights this tension. While they aimed to offer a more affordable package, the absence of Bally Sports remains a significant drawback for sports enthusiasts heavily invested in their local teams.

Understanding Diamond Sports Group’s Financial Challenges

Adding another layer of complexity, Diamond Sports Group, the current owner of Bally Sports, filed for bankruptcy in 2023. This financial turmoil casts a shadow over the future of the RSNs and their distribution deals. While they continue to operate and broadcast games, the long-term stability of Bally Sports is uncertain. The bankruptcy proceedings could potentially lead to restructuring, renegotiation of deals, or even a sale of assets, which could ultimately impact how you access these channels.

Alternative Ways to Watch Bally Sports

Despite the absence of Bally Sports on YouTube TV, you have several other options:

• Cable or Satellite TV: Traditional cable and satellite providers like Charter Spectrum, Cox Communications, and DirecTV often carry Bally Sports channels. This remains a reliable, albeit potentially more expensive, way to ensure you don’t miss your local games. Be sure to confirm specific channel availability in your region.
• Direct-to-Consumer Streaming (Bally Sports+): Bally Sports offers its own standalone streaming service, Bally Sports+. This option allows you to stream your local Bally Sports channels directly without a cable subscription. However, the service is only available in certain markets and its pricing may vary. Furthermore, its future is somewhat tied to Diamond Sports Group’s financial situation.
• FuboTV: FuboTV is a streaming service that offers a wide range of sports channels, including some Bally Sports RSNs in select markets. Availability depends on your location, so verify before subscribing.
• DirecTV Stream: While technically a streaming service, DirecTV Stream (formerly AT&T TV) often carries regional sports networks, including Bally Sports, depending on your package and location. Be sure to check the available channels for your specific zip code.

FAQs: Your Bally Sports Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Bally Sports and its availability on streaming services:

1. Why did YouTube TV drop Bally Sports?

YouTube TV dropped Bally Sports (then under Sinclair Broadcast Group ownership) due to a disagreement over carriage fees. YouTube TV felt the fees were too high and would necessitate raising prices for all subscribers, even those who weren’t interested in sports.

2. Will Bally Sports ever return to YouTube TV?

There’s no guarantee that Bally Sports will return to YouTube TV. It depends on future negotiations between YouTube TV and Diamond Sports Group. Given the financial uncertainties surrounding Diamond Sports, a resolution seems unlikely in the near future.

3. What channels are included in Bally Sports?

The specific channels included under the Bally Sports umbrella vary by region. Generally, they include channels like Bally Sports Midwest, Bally Sports South, Bally Sports Florida, Bally Sports North, and many others. Each channel broadcasts the games of the local professional teams in that area.

4. How much does Bally Sports+ cost?

The price of Bally Sports+ varies depending on the market and subscription option (monthly or annual). You’ll need to visit the Bally Sports+ website for specific pricing in your area.

5. Is Bally Sports+ worth it?

Whether Bally Sports+ is worth it depends on how much you value access to your local sports teams. If you’re a die-hard fan, it might be a worthwhile investment. However, consider the cost compared to other streaming services or cable packages.

6. Does FuboTV offer all Bally Sports channels?

No, FuboTV doesn’t offer all Bally Sports channels. Availability is limited and depends on your location. Check the FuboTV website for a list of channels available in your zip code before subscribing.

7. Can I use a VPN to watch Bally Sports if I’m out of market?

While using a VPN might technically work, it’s generally against the terms of service of most streaming providers and could result in your account being suspended. Furthermore, it’s not a guaranteed solution and may not always bypass geographic restrictions.

8. What sports teams are shown on Bally Sports?

Bally Sports channels broadcast games for numerous MLB, NBA, and NHL teams, as well as some college sports. Specific teams vary depending on the regional Bally Sports channel.

9. Is there a free trial for Bally Sports+?

Free trials for Bally Sports+ are not always available. Check the Bally Sports+ website to see if a free trial is currently being offered in your region.

10. What devices are compatible with Bally Sports+?

Bally Sports+ is typically compatible with a variety of devices, including Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, web browsers, iOS and Android devices. Check the Bally Sports+ website for the most up-to-date list of compatible devices.

11. Will Diamond Sports Group’s bankruptcy affect Bally Sports broadcasts?

The bankruptcy of Diamond Sports Group could potentially impact Bally Sports broadcasts, but the immediate impact is uncertain. They continue to operate and broadcast games during the bankruptcy proceedings. However, the long-term effects could include changes in ownership, distribution deals, or channel availability.

12. Are there any legal ways to watch out-of-market games?

Yes, there are legal ways to watch out-of-market games. MLB.TV, NBA League Pass, and NHL Center Ice are streaming services that allow you to watch games outside of your local broadcast area, although blackout restrictions may still apply to games broadcast nationally or locally.

In conclusion, while the absence of Bally Sports on YouTube TV is disappointing for many sports fans, numerous alternative viewing options exist. By carefully evaluating your needs and budget, you can find the best way to catch your favorite local teams in action. Keeping abreast of the evolving broadcasting landscape and Diamond Sports Group’s situation will be key to staying informed about the future of Bally Sports.