The St. Louis Cardinals could be facing a major change in how fans watch games next season, as uncertainty surrounds the team’s local television deal.
Cardinals broadcasts are currently carried by FanDuel Sports Network, which is operated by Main Street Sports Group. That relationship has come into question after reports revealed Main Street failed to make a scheduled rights payment to the Cardinals in December. With local TV revenue playing a crucial role in team finances, the missed payment has forced the organization to consider its next move.
According to The Athletic, the Cardinals have been in recent negotiations with Main Street and are weighing whether to stay with the network under a revised agreement or walk away entirely. If the team chooses to move on, Major League Baseball is viewed as the most likely option to take over broadcasts.
MLB has already stepped into similar roles for other teams in recent years, handling production and distribution while offering games directly to fans through MLB.TV. A source told The Athletic that the Cardinals are prepared for that scenario and expect all 162 games to be televised next season regardless of who ultimately controls the rights.
In a statement released Wednesday, the Cardinals said they are working with FanDuel Sports Network, MLB, and other partners to evaluate local media options. The team emphasized that its priority is ensuring games remain widely available to fans through both cable and streaming platforms in 2026.
The outcome could serve as a measuring stick for how other teams navigate a rapidly changing local TV market, especially as MLB expands its role in game distribution.