The local cable network that airs Boston's Major League Baseball and National Hockey League games is launching a streaming subscription. People will be able to sign up to watch live games without paying for cable starting Wednesday. Millions of Americans are canceling traditional pay TV subscriptions each year as streaming services become more popular.
The network will charge $29.99 a month for streaming access to its programming, which includes live Red Sox and Bruins games. The first month will cost $1. Eight tickets to any Red Sox game in 2022, is what comes with an annual subscription.
The service will only be available in the New England area. MLB TV is a streaming service that is available nationally.
Sean McGrail, the president and chief executive officer of NESN, said in a statement that they believe the direct subscription option will build on the company's reach in the region.
The majority owned by the Boston Red Sox owner is trying to win over a new, younger audience by offering a digital streaming alternative for their games. The service will cost more than other streaming services. The most expensive global streaming services have standard plans that cost about $15 per month in the US.
Regional sports networks have to charge more for out-of-cable service because of their agreements with cable TV providers. The cable providers have agreed to pay a flat monthly fee.
CNBC is owned by the parent company of NBCUniversal.
Sinclair Broadcasting and Bally are teaming up to offer regional sports networks.
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