The St. Louis Cardinals announced they have secured a new multi-year broadcast agreement with FanDuel Sports Network to continue local game broadcasts. This partnership includes a streaming component allowing fans in the St. Louis region to watch games through the FanDuel app without needing a traditional TV provider, significantly reducing blackouts. According to Hannah Wyman and Derrick Goold of the *St. Louis Post-Dispatch*, this marks a continuation of coverage under the same network previously known as Bally Sports, owned by Diamond Sports Group.
Last month, Diamond Sports Group, currently navigating bankruptcy, ended its agreements with the Cardinals and 11 other teams but indicated willingness to renegotiate deals at lower fees. The Cardinals agreed to revised terms, despite a projected revenue reduction. Reports indicate that their rights fee revenue will decrease by 23%, dropping from around $75 million to approximately $57-58 million next season. While the exact length of the new contract is unspecified, sources such as Evan Drellich and Katie Woo of *The Athletic* note that it does not extend into the 2030s and offers some flexibility based on the future of sports media.
The most significant news for fans is the streaming option, enhancing game accessibility. The team’s reduced revenue has implications for spending, which is already evident from the decision to decline certain player options, including a $12 million option on Kyle Gibson. Additionally, the Cardinals are unlikely to pursue free-agent deals with Paul Goldschmidt and Andrew Kittredge, aligning with a broader payroll adjustment.
Currently, the Cardinals’ payroll commitments are under $110 million, with arbitration estimated at $19 million, positioning them roughly $50 million below last season’s Opening Day expenditures. The team is expected to receive trade interest in its veterans as it retools and evaluates younger talent. However, reports suggest that a full-scale rebuild is not anticipated, as players like Willson Contreras and Sonny Gray, both holding no-trade clauses, have indicated a desire to remain in St. Louis.
This makes the Cardinals the second team to renegotiate with Diamond after its original deals were dropped. The Miami Marlins reportedly secured a similar deal, while Diamond will continue to honor its contract with the Braves. MLB will handle broadcasts for teams like the Twins, Guardians, and Brewers, while other teams such as the Rangers and a handful of others are still determining their future broadcast plans.
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