YES Network & MSG On YouTube TV: What You Need To Know
Are you a sports enthusiast struggling to navigate the ever-changing landscape of streaming services? Understanding which platforms offer your favorite teams and channels is crucial, and sometimes, the answers aren't as straightforward as they seem.
The world of television and streaming services is a complex web, constantly evolving with new offerings, channel additions, and unexpected removals. One of the most common sources of frustration for sports fans is finding a reliable way to watch their teams. Determining the availability of specific channels, like the YES Network (home of the New York Yankees, Brooklyn Nets, and New York Liberty) and MSG Network (which carries programming for the New York Knicks, New York Rangers, New York Islanders, and New Jersey Devils), across different streaming platforms is often the first hurdle. This article aims to provide clarity on the availability of these networks, specifically focusing on YouTube TV and other popular streaming services.
Before diving into the specifics, it's worth acknowledging the dynamic nature of these offerings. Streaming services negotiate agreements with content providers, and these agreements can change. Channel lineups can be altered, and what's available today might not be available tomorrow. Therefore, it is always a good idea to verify the most up-to-date information from the service provider itself.
Let's address a common query: Does YouTube TV offer the YES Network? The answer, at the current time of this writing is complex. While YouTube TV offers a robust lineup, including MSG Network, the YES Network has not always been part of their offerings. In the past, there have been periods where it wasn't included, creating a point of contention for Yankee fans. Information suggests that the YES Network is not readily available on YouTube TV. Under the frequently asked questions section, YES has noted their hope to reach an agreement with YouTube TV, but based on prior discussions, the situation does not look promising. This situation is something to keep in mind when making your decision.
So, where can you watch the YES Network? Fortunately, the YES Network is available on most major platforms, both mobile and living room based. This includes services like Amazon Fire TV, Roku, and others, offering a degree of flexibility for viewers. The availability of YES Network is subject to change, so be sure to check the service providers official website.
Many viewers are accustomed to traditional TV broadcasts and are used to ad breaks. Therefore, it is good to note that the live TV programming on streaming services like YouTube TV comes from networks similar to traditional TV broadcasts, so many of the networks do have ad breaks.
For those seeking to watch MSG Network, the situation is more positive. YouTube TV does carry MSG Network. Its included in their base plan, meaning you can watch all Knicks, Rangers, Islanders, and Devils programming through the YouTube TV app. This makes YouTube TV a viable option for fans of those teams.
Another excellent choice for accessing MSG Network is Fubo. Its Pro plan, which starts at $79.99 per month, offers MSG alongside over 215 channels, including sports staples. If MSG is a priority, this is a factor to weigh in. It is a very comprehensive package.
DirectTV Stream is another option to consider. DirectTV Stream offers a good selection of sports offerings, which includes the YES Network, providing another avenue for viewers to catch their favorite teams.
Other streaming options to consider include Hulu + Live TV and Sling TV. These services have different channel lineups and pricing structures, so it's essential to compare them to see which one best fits your needs. When considering the different offerings, evaluate which of these services would fit the best with your viewing habits.
The landscape is further complicated by regional sports networks (RSNs). In 2020, YouTube TV removed two RSNs from its lineup: NESN, which telecasts the Boston Red Sox and Bruins, and the YES Network, which carries the New York Yankees, Brooklyn Nets, and New York Liberty. In addition, YouTube TV dropped MLB Network at the end of January in the same year. These examples highlight the potential for changes.
One of the factors influencing these decisions is the distribution of revenue. Right now, only 48% of local TV revenue is shared. Major League Baseball (MLB) and the teams would also have to reach an agreement on how to distribute MLB.tv subscription money, because the popularity of teams such as the Yankees, Red Sox, Mets, Cardinals, and Cubs, generate significantly more revenue than teams such as the A's or Marlins. Such factors influence decisions of streaming services.
YouTube TV's major function is its ability to serve up livestreams of cable TV channels. In New York City, for example, YouTube TV offers a selection of local networks (ABC 7, CBS 2, FOX 5). This makes it a good alternative to traditional cable.
When comparing streaming services, consider factors like channel selection, price, and user interface. The best service for you depends on your priorities and viewing habits. If you watch a lot of sports, you will want to consider the ones mentioned in this article.
The ability to record shows is also important to many viewers. The good news is that YouTube TVs cloud DVR feature allows users to record and save content from channels such as the Military History Channel. This feature adds convenience for viewers.
The final decision often comes down to a balance of factors. Assess your must-have channels, your budget, and the features you value most to make the best choice for your needs.
The world of streaming is an evolving one, and staying informed is key to making the most of your viewing experience. The information presented here is current as of the time of this writing, but always check with the streaming service for the most up-to-date details.
