The Mariners are one of eight MLB teams that do not offer a direct-to-consumer package that is not tied to a TV subscription, but the team is “trying to find ways to ... at least provide an option that would be more affordable or usable and not subject to local blackouts,” according to sources cited by Ryan Divish of the SEATTLE TIMES. The team currently cannot offer a DTC package “for fans who just want to stream the games, regardless of location,” due to “current contracts with more than a dozen cable providers.” The limited streaming that is available requires a “subscription through specific cable providers.” Team execs have been in negotiations with some of the distributors and “working with MLB to find a solution to the problem.” Most of the MLB teams offering a DTC option were part of Diamond Sports Network, and all 14 of those teams “renegotiated to have control of their streaming rights aside from the network.” That allows them to offer their own streaming platform. However, SNY this week announced plans to offer a streaming package for Mets fans that does not require a subscription, a move that “could help the Mariners” down the road (SEATTLE TIMES, 2/20).
Mariners looking for ways fans can stream games despite obstacles
