The Texas Rangers have taken significant steps to enhance the viewing experience for their fans. Following the introduction of the new Rangers Sports Network (RSN), the team has secured multi-year agreements with various distributors, ensuring games will be accessible across a wider range of platforms. Additionally, the Rangers are reintroducing free over-the-air broadcasts for the first time since 2014, providing fans with more options to enjoy live baseball.
Neil Leibman, chairman of the Rangers Entertainment and Media Company, emphasized the importance of offering diverse viewing methods in today's challenging media landscape. The team also announced a direct streaming service through Victory+, priced at $100 for full-season access, adding another dimension to how fans can follow the Rangers. This move comes after the expiration of the previous deal with Bally Sports Southwest, which faced financial difficulties and limited availability on many platforms.
Expanding Distribution Channels for Wider Reach
The Texas Rangers have successfully expanded their broadcasting reach by partnering with multiple distributors. These collaborations ensure that fans across the five-state territory can easily tune into Rangers games. Key partners include DirectTV, U-Verse, and Spectrum, with more deals expected to be finalized soon. This strategic move addresses the growing demand for accessible sports content in an increasingly competitive market.
By securing these partnerships, the Rangers aim to provide a seamless viewing experience for their fans. In recent years, local game broadcasts have faced numerous challenges, making it difficult for some supporters to watch their favorite team. The new Rangers Sports Network (RSN) is designed to overcome these obstacles by leveraging traditional cable and digital television providers. Fans now have more options than ever before, ensuring they won't miss a moment of the action. The team's commitment to expanding distribution channels reflects its dedication to staying ahead in the rapidly evolving media landscape.
Reintroducing Free Over-the-Air Broadcasts and Direct Streaming
In addition to expanding distribution channels, the Texas Rangers are bringing back free over-the-air broadcasts for the first time since 2014. This initiative includes plans for 15 broadcasts, primarily featuring Friday home games. By reintroducing this option, the Rangers are making it easier for fans without cable or subscription services to enjoy live baseball. This move underscores the team's commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.
To further diversify viewing options, the Rangers have also introduced a direct streaming service called Victory+. Priced at $100 for full-season access, this platform allows fans to stream regional games directly to their devices. This innovative approach caters to the growing number of cord-cutters who prefer flexible and convenient viewing methods. The decision to offer both free over-the-air broadcasts and direct streaming demonstrates the Rangers' forward-thinking strategy in adapting to changing fan preferences. It also marks a significant shift from the previous arrangement with Bally Sports Southwest, which had limited availability on many platforms due to financial troubles. The Rangers' new approach ensures that fans have multiple ways to stay connected with their beloved team.