Petitti, Brosnan Discuss MLB Net At Conference

Sports business execs have gathered in N.Y. for the 10th annual Fantasy Sports Associations Sports Media & Technology Conference to discuss a number of issues impacting the industry. With MLB Network set to launch on January 1, Tim Brosnan and Tony Petitti laid out their vision for the net, which they say could include bidding for a live games package in the future. Not surprisingly, ESPN’s landmark BCS deal is a hot topic among attendees, as is the nomination of the next FCC Chair, which could have far-reaching consequences on ongoing carriage squabbles and emerging technologies. The future of fantasy sports also is being monitored, with the growth in participants leading to new ideas on how to lure additional advertisers and further monetize the platform. Meanwhile, CBS stalwart Jim Nantz sits for a one-on-one interview. The conference concludes today.

After Reviewing The Call ...
FCC judge rebukes previous ruling that Comcast had improperly held NFL Net on lower tier.

Caught Offsides
Economic crisis could strip NHL players of all escrow money next season, in effect cutting cap by almost $9M.

Holding The Runner On Base 
MLB's central office operating budget remains steady for '09, first year without jump since '04.

K.C. Without The Sunshine Band 
As the Chiefs' on-field woes continue, the once rabid fans are starting to stray from Arrowhead.

Knights & Armor
Rutgers athletics to see increased oversight after internal review finds several flaws in the department's operations.

'Tis The Season To Be Jolly
NFLShop.com steers ad efforts toward female shoppers during holiday months.

Motor Home
GM remains committed to Canucks arena, VANOC despite recent economic hardships.

March Of Dimes
Cities offer mixed reactions to NCAA's selection of 2012-2016 Final Four locations.