In DC, Adam Kilgore notes this winter brought the "first 'reset period' in the Nationals’ contract with MASN, a window for the Nationals to renegotiate the rights fees they receive from MASN." To maximize their take, the Nationals "hired a high-powered media consultant to argue for what constitutes fair-market value fees." The results could "fundamentally change the scope of how the Nationals do business and spend to acquire players." A source said that the team "could hope to double or triple the $29 million they received from MASN in 2011" (WASHINGTON POST, 1/19).
STATISTICALLY OUTSPOKEN: In N.Y., Karen Crouse profiles Golf Channel analyst Brandel Chamblee under the header, "Analyst Who Is Able To Back Up Opinions." Chamblee is an "unabashed admirer" of broadcaster Johnny Miller, and he has the "same style but, some argue, lacks his authority because he never won a major." On the set, Chamblee "does not appear easily flustered." He has a statistic "for every situation and an artist's way with words." Golf Channel President Mike McCarley said, "He’s able to paint these word pictures that just make you think. His Texas homespun slang is what makes it interesting. But what he’s saying at his heart is smart and very well thought out." Krouse writes Chamblee is "not afraid to place [Tiger] Woods, the engine that drives golf's popularity, in his crosshairs" (N.Y. TIMES, 1/19).
ON DEMAND: Comcast yesterday announced the start of another season of Celtics On Demand in partnership with the Celtics and Comcast SportsNet. The partnership will deliver Celtics fans coverage of the team, ranging from behind-the-scenes features to game replays. Fans will be able to tune into replays of Comcast SportsNet's Celtics game telecasts within four hours of the game's conclusion. Games are available On Demand for 24 hours (THE DAILY).
PAD-DING THE STATS: Bleacher Report has launched a version of its Team Stream mobile app for the iPad, as well as a tablet-optimized version of its site, representing its first dedicated entries into publishing for tablets. Bleacher Report now generates more than 30% of its overall traffic from mobile devices, up from 5% a year ago (Eric Fisher, SportsBusiness Journal).
