Manfred Expresses Concern Over Dodgers-SportsNet LA Blackout Reaching Third Season

MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred yesterday acknowledged that he "was worried" the blackout of Dodgers' games on SportsNet LA "could extend into a third season," according to Dylan Hernandez of the L.A. TIMES. Manfred: “My concern could not be higher. I think that the Dodgers and the Los Angeles market are crucial to Major League Baseball and its reach. This has gone on a long time.” Manfred said that he is optimistic SportsNet LA "could have more widespread distribution in time for next season." He said, “I’m hopeful that there are dynamics in play beyond baseball, in terms of corporate activity, that may create some flexibility and, hopefully, we will get a resolution in time for the 2016 season" (L.A. TIMES, 11/11). In California, Jeff Fletcher notes Charter Communications is "in the process of a takeover of Time Warner that is awaiting federal approval." The Dodgers are "hopeful the takeover, once complete, will clear the way for increased distribution of SportsNet LA" (ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER, 11/11).