“Control the content, control the distribution as much as you can, so you sort of control your own destiny.”

Sam Kennedy – President & CEO of the Boston Red Sox and Chief Executive of Fenway Sports Management –on the future of RSNs and broadcast rights when it comes to the Red Sox and the other properties in Fenway’s portfolio. Their NESN 360 product is a cutting edge DTC option for fans that serves as a complimentary addition to the traditional broadcast.

This was recorded in late 2022, before the recent Bally Sport bankruptcy that threatens to disrupt the current system in both the short and long term.

He also touches on the rule changes that will take effect in 2023 to increase viewer engagement around baseball regardless of the format.

https://youtu.be/_g6FDQEDvGo

Listen to the full episode here