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Sources: Cubs Could Bring TV Rights Back To Tribune Media With Short-Term Deal

The Cubs are "under increasing pressure to find a short-term solution" for the club's local TV coverage -- "perhaps even a return to Tribune Media, with whom negotiations are ongoing," according to sources cited by Robert Channick of the CHICAGO TRIBUNE. Sources noted that an announcement is "expected as soon as this week." Tribune Media "may be the most likely option for keeping the Cubs on local TV, and there are signs of progress in hammering out a short-term deal." Sources said that the Cubs, whose local deal with WGN expires at the end of the regular season, are "exploring everything from a private equity partnership to a new regional sports network." The club has "yet to announce broadcast plans for '15 and beyond." Sources said that a "long-term deal may not be imminent." Sources also noted that that the team is "in negotiations" with private equity firm TPG Capital, which has "deep roots in sports and entertainment, to be a partner in monetizing broadcast rights." Sources added that Fox Sports had "preliminary discussions with the Cubs before this season, but talks never progressed." Root Sports -- the RSN brand owned by DirecTV -- also is "another potential partner." Years of "dismal play" by the Cubs have "resulted in low ratings and poor ad sales" for WGN. Sources said that the net is "losing about $200,000 per game under the current contract" (CHICAGO TRIBUNE, 9/23).

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