Why is a game blacked out on MLB.TV, NBA League Pass, or NHL Center Ice?

Games are blacked out on out-of-market streaming platforms when a local Regional Sports Network (RSN) holds exclusive broadcast rights in your home market zip code. The league enforces blackouts to protect local TV cable ratings.

How does the Zip Code Blackout Checker work?

Enter your 5-digit US zip code. The tool compares your home state against the coverage territory of local RSNs (e.g., YES Network, MSG, NESN, Bally Sports, Spectrum SportsNet) to determine if out-of-market packages will block the game.

How can I watch a game that is blacked out in my area?

If a game is blacked out on League Pass or MLB.TV, you can watch it live on your local RSN via cable/satellite, or stream it through the network's direct-to-consumer app (YES App, MSG+, NESN 360, Bally Sports+).

Instant Zip Code Regional Lookup

Is This Game Blacked Out?

Regional sports blackouts are the #1 headache for MLB, NBA, and NHL fans. Enter your zip code below to instantly check if tonight's matchup is blocked in your local territory and discover official viewing options.

Is This Game Blacked Out?

Select a team and enter your 5-digit US zip code to check local RSN blackout rules instantly.

CHECK LOCAL LISTINGS

Standard Broadcast Schedule

Check local TV listings for Yankees vs Red Sox. National broadcasts carry no regional blackouts.

Best Option:Check local television guide for final network assignments.

How Regional Blackouts Work

In-Market Territories

When you live inside a team's home territory (e.g. New York for the Yankees or Knicks), local Regional Sports Networks (RSNs) hold exclusive broadcast rights. Out-of-market subscription packages like MLB.TV or NBA League Pass are contractually forced to black out live video in your zip code.

Out-of-Market Expat Streaming

If you live outside the team's home region (e.g. a Cubs fan living in Florida or a Lakers fan living in Texas), out-of-market packages provide 100% unblocked live video with zero local TV blackouts.

Blackout Rules by Major League

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MLB Blackouts

MLB has the strictest regional blackout maps in sports. Certain states like Iowa and Nevada have up to 6 MLB teams blacked out simultaneously on MLB.TV.

MLB Broadcast Guide →

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NBA Blackouts

NBA League Pass blackouts apply to all local RSN games and national broadcasts on TNT, ESPN, and ABC. Local DTC apps like MSG+ and YES App allow cord-cutters to stream locally.

NBA Broadcast Guide →

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NHL Blackouts

ESPN+ carries out-of-market NHL games, but local market games air on local RSNs. National broadcasts on TNT and ESPN require traditional or live TV subscriptions.

NHL Broadcast Guide →