Why Were Games 2-7 of the 2019 American League Championship Series Yankees/Astros on FS1 Instead of Fox Broadcasting Network?
Introduction to MLB Broadcasting Changes
In the vast landscape of Major League Baseball (MLB) broadcasting, the decision-making process behind which games are aired on which channels can significantly impact fan engagement and viewership. This year, the 2019 American League Championship Series (ALCS) between the New York Yankees and the Houston Astros faced an interesting twist in broadcasting schedules, with games 2 through 7 being moved from the traditional home of MLB postseason games, Fox Broadcasting Network, to FS1. Understanding this shift requires delving into the complex web of broadcasting rights and network strategies.
The Rise of FS1 as a Major League Network
One key reason for this move is the evolution and strategic investment in FS1 by Fox Sports. Launched in 2014, FS1 was created to compete with other major sports networks like ESPN and NBC Sports Network. The network has since grown to become a significant player in MLB broadcasting. Their most recent rights contract with MLB saw many games previously broadcast on Fox or TBS being moved to FS1.
Historical Context of Broadcasting Rights
The shift of non-World Series MLB postseason games from Fox to cable networks started in the late 2000s. At that time, Fox decided to protect its new fall primetime television shows from being preempted for baseball games, which could otherwise disrupt the show's audience building. This strategic decision paved the way for TBS to become a MLB postseason broadcaster. In 2019, with the launch of FS1, the network further solidified its position in the MLB broadcasting ecosystem.
Strategic Reasons for the Broadcast Change
The decision to move ALCS games 2 through 7 from Fox to FS1 was a strategic move based on several key factors:
Market Share and Competition: FS1 was aimed at capturing a larger portion of the sports audience, particularly during peak game times. By securing high-profile postseason games, FS1 could lock in subscribers and attract new viewers.
Enhancing Network Credibility: MLB postseason games are prime time events that can elevate the network's reputation. Securing these games helped FS1 establish itself as a serious contender in the world of sports broadcasting.
Pre-emptive Broadcasting Strategy: As mentioned, one of the core reasons for the shift was to protect newer shows from being interrupted during peak viewing times. This strategy ensured that FS1 could create a solid audience without constantly pre-empting other programming.
Impact on Fan Engagement and Viewership
The move from Fox to FS1 had a significant impact on fan engagement and viewership. The change in broadcast network brought both positives and negatives:
Higher Engagement: By placing these high-profile games on FS1, the network could attract a more engaged and passionate fan base during peak viewing times, which could increase overall viewership.
Less Pre-emption: Fans of the Yankees and Astros in regions with pay television plans no longer had to deal with interrupted shows, making the viewing experience more seamless.
Potential Schism in Fan Base: The shift could also polarize fans, with some preferring to watch games on Fox and finding the move to FS1 inconvenient or problematic.
Conclusion: A Complex Affair in Broadcast Rights
The broadcasting decision for the 2019 ALCS games 2 through 7 between the Yankees and Astros from Fox to FS1 is a testament to the complex and often strategic nature of broadcast rights. It highlights the ongoing competition for major sporting events and the impact of network platforms on fan experience and engagement.
As the landscape of sports broadcasting continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how networks adjust their strategies and which games end up where. The 2019 ALCS serves as a prime example of the far-reaching implications of these decisions for all stakeholders in the sports broadcasting industry.