The best ways to watch St. Louis Cardinals baseball games include regional sports networks like Bally Sports Midwest (if you’re local), MLB.TV (if you’re outside the Cardinals’ broadcast territory), and streaming services like Fubo, DIRECTV STREAM, and YouTube TV. Availability may vary based on your location.
Where to Watch St. Louis Cardinals Baseball Games
As a lifelong baseball fan, and especially a Cardinals supporter, I know the frustration of missing a game. It’s like missing out on a piece of summer, a shared experience with friends and family. I’ve explored all the different avenues over the years, from fuzzy antennas to the latest streaming services, trying to catch every home run and diving catch. Let’s break down all the ways you can watch the St. Louis Cardinals, no matter where you are.
Understanding Your Viewing Options
Before diving into specific platforms, it’s crucial to understand the landscape of baseball broadcasting. The primary ways to watch Cardinals games are:
- Regional Sports Networks (RSNs): These are channels like Bally Sports Midwest, which hold the local broadcast rights for the team.
- MLB.TV: This is the official streaming service of Major League Baseball.
- Streaming Services: Services like Fubo, DIRECTV STREAM, and YouTube TV offer various channel packages that may include RSNs or national sports channels.
- National Broadcasts: Games occasionally air on national networks like ESPN, Fox, and FS1.
Bally Sports Midwest: Your Local Hub
For those of us in the St. Louis area, Bally Sports Midwest is usually the go-to channel. It carries the majority of the Cardinals’ games. However, it’s important to check your local cable or satellite provider to ensure Bally Sports Midwest is included in your package. I remember one year, I almost missed half the season because I assumed I had it! It’s worth double-checking.
Unfortunately, Bally Sports Midwest’s availability on streaming services is limited due to ongoing carriage disputes. This means it’s not always the easiest option for cord-cutters.
MLB.TV: Out-of-Market Savior
If you’re a Cardinals fan living outside the St. Louis broadcast area, MLB.TV is a fantastic option. It allows you to stream almost every Cardinals game live or on-demand. The biggest caveat? Blackout restrictions. If you’re within the Cardinals’ broadcast territory, you won’t be able to watch those games live on MLB.TV. This is because the local broadcast rights belong to Bally Sports Midwest.
I’ve used MLB.TV for years when I’m traveling or living outside the Midwest. It’s a lifesaver for keeping up with the team. I appreciate the multiple camera angles and the ability to pause and rewind.
Streaming Services: Cutting the Cord
For those looking to ditch traditional cable, several streaming services offer channels that carry Cardinals games.
- Fubo: This service is known for its extensive sports coverage, including many RSNs. It’s often one of the best options for getting Bally Sports Midwest (check local availability).
- DIRECTV STREAM: Similar to Fubo, DIRECTV STREAM offers various packages, some of which include RSNs.
- YouTube TV: While it carries many popular channels, YouTube TV doesn’t always include RSNs like Bally Sports Midwest. However, it does carry national networks that occasionally broadcast Cardinals games.
Before committing to any streaming service, check which channels are included in your area. I’ve learned the hard way that channel lineups can vary significantly.
National Broadcasts: The Occasional Treat
Keep an eye out for Cardinals games on national networks like ESPN, Fox, and FS1. These games are typically high-profile matchups and offer a great way to watch the team without needing an RSN or MLB.TV subscription. Check your local listings to see when these games are scheduled.
How Do Blackout Restrictions Affect Me?
Blackout restrictions are a major consideration for baseball fans. They prevent you from watching certain games live on MLB.TV based on your location. The purpose is to protect the local broadcast rights of RSNs like Bally Sports Midwest.
To determine if a game is blacked out in your area, you can enter your zip code on the MLB.TV website. If you’re within the Cardinals’ broadcast territory, you won’t be able to watch those games live on MLB.TV, but you can usually watch them on Bally Sports Midwest.
What About Using a VPN?
Some fans consider using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to bypass blackout restrictions. While this is technically possible, it violates the terms of service of MLB.TV and could result in your account being suspended. I personally advise against it. It’s better to explore legitimate viewing options.
How Much Will It Cost to Watch Cardinals Games?
The cost of watching Cardinals games varies depending on the method you choose.
- Cable/Satellite: Prices vary widely depending on your provider and package.
- MLB.TV: A single-team subscription costs less than the all-teams package.
- Streaming Services: Prices range depending on the channels included. Fubo and DIRECTV STREAM tend to be more expensive due to their RSN coverage.
Consider your budget and how many other channels you want access to when making your decision.
What Devices Can I Use to Watch?
Most streaming services and MLB.TV are compatible with a wide range of devices, including:
- Smart TVs
- Computers
- Smartphones
- Tablets
- Streaming devices like Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Apple TV
This makes it easy to watch Cardinals games wherever you are. I often switch between my TV, phone, and tablet depending on where I am in the house.
Keeping Up with the Cardinals: Beyond Live Games
Watching live games isn’t the only way to stay connected to the Cardinals. Here are some other options:
- MLB App: The MLB app provides scores, highlights, news, and more.
- Team Website: The official Cardinals website offers similar content.
- Social Media: Follow the Cardinals on social media for updates, highlights, and behind-the-scenes content.
- Sports News Websites: Sites like ESPN and Bleacher Report offer comprehensive baseball coverage.
Exploring Alternative Streaming Options
While the options mentioned earlier are the most common, there are some alternative streaming services that might offer Cardinals games, though availability can be inconsistent. Services like Sling TV may occasionally carry national broadcasts, but they typically don’t offer RSNs. It’s worth doing some research to see if any of these services fit your needs.
The Future of Baseball Broadcasting
The landscape of sports broadcasting is constantly evolving. As more viewers cut the cord, streaming services are becoming increasingly important. It’s possible that MLB will eventually offer more direct-to-consumer options, bypassing the need for RSNs altogether. For now, we have to navigate the complexities of the current system.
Choosing the Right Option for You
Ultimately, the best way to watch St. Louis Cardinals baseball games depends on your location, budget, and viewing preferences. If you’re local, Bally Sports Midwest is likely your primary option. If you’re out-of-market, MLB.TV is a great choice. Streaming services offer a convenient way to cut the cord, but be sure to check channel availability in your area. And don’t forget to catch those occasional national broadcasts!
As a Cardinals fan, I’ve learned to be resourceful and adaptable when it comes to watching games. With a little research and planning, you can ensure you never miss a moment of the action. Go Cards!
How can I watch Cardinals games if I live outside of St. Louis?
MLB.TV is your best bet. It allows you to stream most Cardinals games live, but blackout restrictions apply if you’re within the Cardinals’ local broadcast territory.
What is Bally Sports Midwest, and do I need it to watch Cardinals games?
Bally Sports Midwest is the regional sports network that broadcasts most Cardinals games in the St. Louis area. If you live locally, it’s essential for catching the majority of games.
Can I watch St. Louis Cardinals baseball on ESPN?
Yes, occasionally. Keep an eye on your local listings for nationally televised games on ESPN, Fox, and FS1. These games offer a chance to watch without a subscription to MLB.TV or an RSN.
Are there any free ways to watch Cardinals games?
Legally, free options are limited to nationally televised games on networks like Fox. Otherwise, you’ll typically need a subscription to a cable, satellite, or streaming service.
Will YouTube TV let me watch St. Louis Cardinals baseball?
YouTube TV carries national sports channels but may not include Bally Sports Midwest, the regional sports network for the Cardinals. Check the channel lineup for your area before subscribing.
What are the best streaming services to watch St. Louis Cardinals?
Fubo and DIRECTV STREAM are often recommended due to their coverage of regional sports networks like Bally Sports Midwest. However, availability can vary, so confirm before subscribing.
Are St. Louis Cardinals games blacked out on MLB.TV?
Yes, blackout restrictions apply to MLB.TV. If you’re within the Cardinals’ broadcast territory, you won’t be able to watch those games live on MLB.TV.
Can I use a VPN to bypass MLB.TV blackout restrictions?
While technically possible, using a VPN to bypass blackout restrictions violates MLB.TV’s terms of service and could lead to account suspension. It’s best to explore legitimate viewing options.
Is it cheaper to watch St. Louis Cardinals with cable, satellite, or streaming?
The cost varies depending on the provider and package. Streaming services can be cheaper than traditional cable, but prices depend on the channels included. Compare your options to find the most cost-effective solution.
What devices can I use to stream Cardinals games?
Most streaming services and MLB.TV are compatible with smart TVs, computers, smartphones, tablets, and streaming devices like Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Apple TV.
FAQ
- How can I find the St. Louis Cardinals schedule? Check the official MLB website or the Cardinals’ team website for the most up-to-date schedule.
- Where can I listen to Cardinals games on the radio? Cardinals games are typically broadcast on KMOX 1120 AM in St. Louis.
- Can I watch Cardinals games on my phone? Yes, you can watch via the MLB app or streaming service apps that carry the games.
- What’s the difference between MLB.TV and MLB Extra Innings? MLB.TV is a streaming service, while MLB Extra Innings is a premium cable or satellite package.
- Do I need cable to watch Cardinals games? No, streaming services like Fubo and DIRECTV STREAM offer alternatives to traditional cable.
- How do I cancel my MLB.TV subscription? You can cancel your subscription through the MLB.TV website or app under your account settings.
