Dodgers Fans Can Now Stream SportsNet LA Without a Cable Bundle
Table of Contents
For the first time this season, Los Angeles Dodgers fans can stream SportsNet LA without purchasing a traditional cable package.
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Spectrum has introduced a streaming-only subscription to the Dodgers’ dedicated TV channel for $29.99 per month or $199.99 annually, announced on Monday.
This service will be available just in time for the Dodgers’ season opener in Japan on Tuesday at 3 a.m. PDT.
Introducing SNLA+: A Dedicated Dodgers Streaming Service
The new streaming platform, SNLA+, is offered in collaboration with Major League Baseball (MLB). MLB will provide the technology and host the service on both MLB.com and the MLB app. SNLA+ subscriptions are limited to the Dodgers’ local television market.
The package includes live and archived games, pregame and postgame coverage, postseason and offseason content, and programs like “Backstage Dodgers.” However, SportsNet LA reduced additional programming last year.
See what Reddit users are saying about this.
Charter Communications Shifts Strategy
Charter Communications, Spectrum’s parent company, had long resisted streaming services. Charter inherited an $8.35 billion local broadcasting contract with the Dodgers when it acquired Time Warner Cable in 2016 and maintained an exclusive cable bundle approach to limit losses.
With the decline in cable and satellite subscriptions and the rise of streaming audiences, Charter shifted strategy.
In 2024, Spectrum began offering SportsNet LA streaming to customers who also purchased broadband and mobile services. This option remains available alongside the new SNLA+ standalone subscription.
Charter plans to reassess its SportsNet LA offerings after this season. Spectrum customers with TV bundles that include SportsNet LA will continue to get free streaming access.
How SNLA+ Pricing Compares to Other MLB Teams
The $29.99 monthly price places SNLA+ at the higher end of MLB team streaming subscriptions. Here’s a comparison:
- NESN (Boston Red Sox, Boston Bruins): $29.99/month
- YES Network (New York Yankees, Brooklyn Nets): $24.99/month
- FanDuel Sports West (formerly Bally Sports West — Angels, Kings): $19.99/month
- MLB streams for Dodgers’ National League West rivals (San Diego Padres, Arizona Diamondbacks, Colorado Rockies): $19.99/month each
MLB’s Future Plans for Streaming Subscriptions
MLB now offers streaming subscriptions for 23 of its 30 teams. Commissioner Rob Manfred aims to bundle streaming rights from as many teams as possible into one package, hoping to auction the rights to a high bidder by 2028.
The goal: let fans watch their team anywhere, eliminating blackout restrictions meant to protect cable and satellite deals.
If the article was helpful, consider sharing it with your friends and family and, subscribe to my newsletter and push notifications for FREE to stay updated with the latest tech news and gadgets.
Thank you for reading this further.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
What is SNLA+?
SNLA+ is Spectrum’s new streaming-only service for SportsNet LA, offering live Dodgers games and additional content.
How much does SNLA+ cost?
SNLA+ costs $29.99 per month or $199.99 per year.
Can I watch Dodgers games outside Los Angeles?
No, SNLA+ is only available in the Dodgers’ local TV market.
What content is included in SNLA+?
It includes live games, archives, pregame, postgame, postseason, offseason coverage, and shows like “Backstage Dodgers.”
Do Spectrum cable customers still get free streaming?
Yes, Spectrum customers with a TV bundle that includes SportsNet LA still get free streaming access.