Facebook is reportedly discussing a live streaming deal with Major League Baseball. Twitter has already tapped into the National Football League and several European sports leagues. The directions these companies are taking is an apparent move to reel in more users and viewers, in line with their proposed video ad campaigns for the foreseeable future.
The deal with the MLB gives Facebook access to one game each week in the coming season. Before Facebook can gain access to the games, they need to get the approval of the MLB owners. Both Facebook and the MLB refused to comment on the matter.
Considering the advancements in media platforms, the sports industry has been lacking in their move towards adapting to new technology. Luckily, social media platforms themselves are approaching them, in the hopes that they can tap into a bigger demographic of non-TV watchers.
According to the ratings of most major TV outlets, sports leagues are struggling to keep viewers interested in viewing the sports games live on TV. If the Facebook collaboration pushes through, the MLB can tap into a younger audience.
Aside from the possible MLB collaboration, Facebook just signed a deal with Univision Holdings Inc. to stream professional soccer games in Mexico.
