Concerns have been escalating regarding Main Street Sports Group (MSSG), the entity behind the FanDuel Sports Network, which broadcasts regional games for various professional sports teams including the Atlanta Braves. Unlike the gambling company with a similar name, this MSSG focuses on sports media.
Reports indicate that MSSG missed a crucial payment to the St. Louis Cardinals late last year and has recently failed to remit payments to several NBA teams. Numerous outlets have covered this issue extensively, with Tom Friend and Mike Mazzeo from Sports Business Journal leading the way. Their latest report serves as a solid overview for those seeking further details.
In brief, MSSG is attempting to sell itself to DAZN, although developments suggest this deal may not materialize, and a second party could come into play. Previous reports indicated that if MSSG doesn’t sell to DAZN, they would cease broadcasting by the end of the current NBA and NHL seasons. However, a recent update changed this timeline, as all nine MLB teams slated to be featured on MSSG’s network opted out of their agreements, casting doubt on the future of their broadcasts.
What Does This Imply for the Atlanta Braves?
The Atlanta Braves are expected to navigate this situation successfully. Although there has been discussion about potentially returning the Braves to TBS, their historic broadcasting station that once captivated millions of fans, that seems unlikely to happen in 2026 as TBS is now a national TV partner of MLB. Nevertheless, the Braves’ strong fanbase and consistent performance make them a highly sought-after team for broadcasting rights.
The next steps remain uncertain. Below is a forecasting of the options based on current circumstances:
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Renegotiate with MSSG – low probability. While MSSG could potentially secure a buyer, it seems unlikely the Braves would wish to reenter a contract with them after opting out.
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Find Another Broadcast Partner – low probability. The Braves are attractive for broadcasting, but time is tight as Spring Training approaches.
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Join the MLB Media Framework – high probability. If no alternative arrangements are made, this could become the default option, although it may adversely affect revenue for the team.
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Gray Media Involvement – medium probability. Gray Media has already broadcasted some Braves games; it’s possible they could step in for more games going forward.
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Braves-Owned Broadcast Experience – low probability (for now). Although a longer-term strategy could be building a proprietary broadcasting operation, immediate timing obstacles may hinder this.
While the future remains unpredictable, the Braves do have a fallback option via MLB Media, ensuring fans will still be able to watch their games, though the delivery method may change.
What About the Broadcasters?
Regarding the broadcasting team, barring any unforeseen events, there are no anticipated changes, regardless of who takes over the in-market broadcasting rights for 2026. Teams, including the Braves, usually maintain significant influence over their broadcasting personnel, suggesting that the current broadcasting team will likely remain intact.
Although a resolution to this situation may not occur immediately, the proximity of Spring Training—less than a month away—suggests that clarity for 2026 will arrive sooner rather than later. The Braves may face challenges, but they will emerge from this situation.
