The Fate of MLS Video Streams

So by now, many of you may have noticed that in the MLS video player for the live streams, there has been some sort of message stating that you can catch free games for the first two weeks of the season.  However, like many of us, you may be confused as to what that exactly means.  Well, don't look here for the answer yet, because I sure as hell don't have it.  However, one does have to wonder exactly what is going on behind the scenes at MLS Headquarters.

I for one have absolutely loved the feeds.  I was able to catch all but two games last week, and one of those was a televised game.  It given me a way to follow the MLS and feel connected when the nearest team is hundreds of miles away.  Aside from Football Manager, watching MLS games and the occasional Battery game has kept my passion for soccer alive.  The lack of communication from the MLS brass, or even the IT department, is a bit disturbing.  We know that at least the first week of Direct Ticket was free on the TV, so some have been speculating that perhaps that's what they meant.  Others speculate that the games will be gone for good, and we'll have to pony up the $70 to get the games (if you can in the first place).  Others speculate there will be a fee to watch online.

Personally, I'm fine with the last option.  Obviously, I'd prefer the games be online and free, but I'd be happy to support the league however I could.  I could see paying $40 or so for a season's worth of MLS games.  For me, the quality is fine, but I also don't need to watch a game full screen like some others.  But I also understand that outputting a game at 1024×768 while streaming over the net is next to impossible, and who knows whether people's connections could even buffer that.  320×240 is fine.  It definitely gets pixelated on a computer monitor if blown up, but in its little screen it looks perfect.  There's the occasional buffer (damn you bittorrent), but for the most part its a seamless transaction.  I'm sure once we get the 3-4 games at once things will get a little bumpy, but we'll cross that bridge when we get there. 

I'd have to say, I'll be greatly disappointed if they yank the online games completely.  First, they'd be the only major (yes, I know they're not major, but bear with me) sport not to stream… ok, maybe the nfl doesn't, but whatever.  They need to grow the sport however they can, and these online games are the best way.  I've gotten a couple of people hooked on them already.  I'm not saying that getting rid of the games will kill my interest in the MLS, but I know this blog will go to shit if they do, since I'll only be able to watch Battery games.

So MLS, don't take these games away.  We have money, so don't let that be an issue.