Tuesday, November 11, 2008

MLB Network partners with Verizon

NEW YORK -- Major League Baseball and Verizon Communications Inc. are teaming up for the first-ever television arrangement between the two major companies. Starting January 1, 2009, MLB Network will be available to all Verizon FiOS TV customers, projected to be the largest debut in cable TV history.

MLB Network will be offered as part of Verizon FiOS TV's Essentials and Extreme HD packages on channel 86, along with a high-definition simulcast of MLB Network on channel 586. In addition to live games, MLB Network will broadcast original programming, highlights, baseball-related news coverage and classic games. The channel's 2009 launch is expected to reach approximately 50 million cable and satellite homes.

The MLB and Verizon agreement will also kick off a new, multi-year deal to provide the MLB Extra Innings package on FiOS TV. Viewers will be able to enjoy up to 80 nationwide Major League Baseball games every week.

"We are looking forward to launching MLB Network on Verizon FiOS TV, which is the fastest growing television provider in the country," said MLB Network President and CEO Tony Petitti. "MLB Network will offer baseball fans an insider's perspective on the sport that has never been seen before. This partnership further expands on our ability to bring the ultimate coverage of the national pastime to fans on a 24/7 basis."

"The MLB Extra Innings package plays a key role in our continuing effort to provide fans around the country with access to as many MLB game telecasts as possible," stated MLB Senior Vice President of Broadcasting Chris Tully. "Adding Verizon FiOS TV to our roster of MLB Extra Innings distributors provides our fans with more choice in accessing the package."

For more information, visit MLBNetwork.com.

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