How to Watch the Atlanta Braves on YouTube TV: A Die-Hard Fan’s Guide

So, you bleed Braves red and you’re looking to ditch cable, embrace the future, and catch every thrilling moment of Atlanta baseball on YouTube TV? You’ve come to the right place. In a nutshell, watching the Atlanta Braves on YouTube TV is primarily dependent on two factors: your location and the channels offered in your YouTube TV base plan. Typically, you’ll be able to catch Braves games through a combination of national broadcasts (ESPN, FS1, TBS) and regional sports networks (RSNs) like Bally Sports South and Bally Sports Southeast, if they are included in your YouTube TV package based on your local area.

Decoding YouTube TV & Braves Coverage: A Deep Dive

Let’s break down how this works and what you need to know to ensure you don’t miss a single home run or dazzling defensive play.

1. National Broadcasts: Your Guaranteed Home Run

No matter where you are in the United States, a portion of Braves games will be broadcast on national networks like ESPN, FS1, and TBS. These games are typically prime-time matchups, playoff games, and other nationally significant contests. The beauty of YouTube TV is that these channels are included in almost every base package. Keep an eye on the official MLB schedule to pinpoint which games will be aired nationally. You can also set your YouTube TV preferences to automatically record all Braves games aired on these networks. It’s the easy way to ensure you never miss a big moment.

2. Regional Sports Networks (RSNs): The Local Connection

Here’s where things get a little more nuanced. The bulk of regular season Braves games are broadcast on regional sports networks (RSNs). Previously, Bally Sports South and Bally Sports Southeast were the go-to channels for Braves fans in the Atlanta region and throughout the Southeast. However, due to ongoing carriage disputes, YouTube TV no longer carries Bally Sports RSNs. This means direct access to the majority of Braves games is not currently possible through YouTube TV’s traditional subscription.

3. Finding Alternatives: Thinking Outside the Box

Don’t despair, Braves faithful! While YouTube TV may not offer direct access to Bally Sports channels right now, there are still paths to consider for enjoying your favorite team.

• MLB.TV (Out-of-Market): If you live outside the Braves’ designated broadcast region (typically the Southeast), MLB.TV is a fantastic option. It allows you to stream out-of-market games live and on-demand. The downside? Games that are broadcast nationally (ESPN, FS1, TBS) are typically blacked out, and you won’t be able to watch the Braves if you live in the local broadcast area.

• Bundling: Consider options that bundle together streaming services that may collectively have the coverage you need. This may require a bit of research, but could be a comprehensive solution.

• MLB Extra Innings (Check your cable provider): Although you’re ditching cable, you might still have access to an account through family or friends. Check to see if MLB Extra Innings might be an option through their service, as it offers many out-of-market games.

4. Keeping an Eye on Future Developments

The world of streaming is constantly evolving. Negotiations between media companies can shift channel lineups frequently. Keep up-to-date on announcements from YouTube TV and the MLB regarding potential changes to channel availability and partnerships. There’s always a possibility that RSNs or alternative solutions might return to the platform in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions Braves fans have about watching their team on YouTube TV:

1. Does YouTube TV carry Bally Sports South or Bally Sports Southeast?

No, YouTube TV currently does not carry Bally Sports South or Bally Sports Southeast, the regional sports networks that typically broadcast the majority of Atlanta Braves games.

2. Can I watch Braves games on ESPN, FS1, or TBS with YouTube TV?

Yes! YouTube TV includes ESPN, FS1, and TBS in its base package, so you can watch any Braves games that are nationally broadcast on these networks.

3. I live outside of Atlanta. Can I use MLB.TV with YouTube TV?

Yes, you can use MLB.TV in conjunction with YouTube TV if you live outside the Braves’ regional broadcast area. MLB.TV will allow you to stream out-of-market games, while YouTube TV covers nationally televised games.

4. What if I live in Atlanta? Can I use MLB.TV to watch Braves games?

No, if you live within the Braves’ designated broadcast territory (typically the Southeast), MLB.TV will blackout Braves games. This is because the local RSN (formerly Bally Sports South and Southeast) holds the exclusive rights to broadcast those games within the region.

5. How can I find the Atlanta Braves’ broadcast schedule?

The official MLB website (MLB.com) and the team’s official website (MLB.com/braves) are excellent resources. Also, check your YouTube TV guide for nationally broadcast games and follow the Braves on social media for announcements.

6. Is there a way to record Braves games on YouTube TV?

Yes! YouTube TV offers unlimited DVR storage. You can record any Braves game that airs on a channel included in your YouTube TV subscription (like ESPN, FS1, or TBS). Simply search for the game or the team and click “Record.”

7. Can I watch Braves games on my phone or tablet with YouTube TV?

Yes! YouTube TV has dedicated apps for both iOS and Android devices, allowing you to watch Braves games on the go, as long as you have a stable internet connection.

8. Does YouTube TV offer a free trial?

YouTube TV’s free trial offerings can vary. Check the YouTube TV website for the latest information on free trials and promotional periods.

9. Can I share my YouTube TV account with family members to watch Braves games?

Yes! YouTube TV allows you to create up to six accounts per household. Each family member can have their own personalized viewing experience, including individual DVR storage and recommendations.

10. Are there any extra fees or hidden costs associated with watching Braves games on YouTube TV?

Aside from the monthly subscription fee for YouTube TV, there are generally no additional fees for watching Braves games that are broadcast on channels included in your package.

11. What other channels are included in the YouTube TV base package?

The YouTube TV channel lineup can vary by location, but it typically includes major networks like ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, CNN, MSNBC, Fox News, and a variety of sports and entertainment channels. Check the YouTube TV website for a full list of channels available in your area.

12. Will YouTube TV ever carry Bally Sports RSNs again?

The future of RSN carriage on streaming services is uncertain. Negotiations between media companies are ongoing. Keep an eye on announcements from YouTube TV and MLB for any potential changes to channel availability.