Phils, Comcast SportsNet reach new TV deal
Contract is said to be for 25 years and more than $2.5 billion, according to sources
PHILADELPHIA -- The Phillies and Comcast SportsNet have struck a new TV contract.
Sources said it is a 25-year deal and the Philadelphia Inquirer reported it is worth more than $2.5 billion, with the Phillies also acquiring an equity stake in the network, plus receiving advertising revenue.
Comcast SportsNet will broadcast the majority of Phillies games, but NBC10 is expected to get its share of Sunday broadcasts. WPHL will no longer carry games.
"We're pleased to confirm that NBCUniversal and Comcast SportsNet have signed a new long-term deal with the Philadelphia Phillies that will expand Comcast SportsNet's role as the Phillies' primary TV partner," Comcast said in a statement. "Although the terms of the comprehensive deal are confidential, details surrounding the 2014 schedule of games will be provided in the coming months."
A 25-year deal falls in line with contracts signed in recent years between networks and other Major League Baseball clubs, like the Dodgers (a reported 25-year, $7 billion deal), Angels (a reported 20-year, $3 billion deal) and Rangers (a reported 20-year, $1.6 billion deal). How the Phillies' new deal impacts their payroll remains to be seen.
The Phillies' current deal with Comcast was set to expire following the 2015 season.