Might MLB have to sacrifice World Series TV revenue in exchange for competitive balance?

Columnist Bill Shaikin examines whether Major League Baseball will face decreased World Series broadcast revenue as smaller-market teams like the Milwaukee Brewers and Tampa Bay Rays reach the Fall Classic. While matchups featuring small-market teams generally draw lower television ratings than large-market franchises like the Los Angeles Dodgers or New York Yankees, industry media experts suggest the league's long-term rights fees remain well protected.

Media consultants Ed Desser and Bob Thompson explain that networks evaluate long-term broadcast contracts spanning multiple seasons rather than individual low-rated matchups. Thompson notes that postseason advertising is predominantly sold upfront, and live sporting events continue to command premium rights valuations across the entertainment landscape despite overall ratings declines.