The money has been spent, just not on the White Sox.
According to a report by Eric Fisher of Front Office Sports, owner Jerry Reinsdorf and his Silver Chalice sports media entity have taken majority control of Stadium, a multiplatform sports network that he helped create back in 2017. The newly acquired stake was previously held by the Sinclair Broadcast Group, though the terms of the deal were not disclosed.
“The equity move was precipitated in part by Sinclair’s own corporate issues, sources said. The company’s Diamond Sports Group, which owns and operates the Bally Sports regional sports networks, filed for bankruptcy protection in March and is continuing reorganization efforts.”
via Eric Fisher/Front Office Sports
As can be expected, this acquisition likely signals something much larger on the horizon that will impact how we watch Chicago sports. White Sox fans, in particular, should be monitoring this closely as the regional rights contract with NBC Sports Chicago is set to expire in October 2024. It’s long been rumored that Reinsdorf could be involved with a new network along with the Bulls and Blackhawks, and this move only adds fuel to the fire.
This isn’t to say the trio of teams won’t renew with NBC Sports Chicago. The sports-broadcasting landscape has been ever-changing over the past few years, and there are still many options left on the table. However, it appears more likely than ever that Reinsdorf is one step closer to forming his own year-round regional sports network, similar to New York’s YES Network and the North Side’s Marquee Sports Network.
For those who may not be familiar, Stadium is a digital television and internet sports network that is headquartered at the United Center in Chicago. It includes a 24/7 linear feed as well as live games and studio programming. The service is available as an over-the-top streaming service through Stadium’s website and other digital partners.
There will almost definitely be additional developments over the coming months. Be sure to follow us on social media @SoxOn35th for more!
Featured Photo: © Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports
