Chicago Cubs Vs. Athletics: How To Watch

Hey baseball fans! Are you trying to figure out where to watch the Chicago Cubs take on the Oakland Athletics? Don't worry, I've got you covered. Finding the right channel or streaming service can sometimes feel like a wild goose chase, but I'm here to make it super easy for you. Whether you're a die-hard Cubs fan, an A's supporter, or just love a good baseball game, knowing where to tune in is the first step to enjoying the action. So, let's dive into all the ways you can catch this exciting matchup.

Streaming Options

Okay, let's talk streaming! In today's world, streaming is king, right? You've got so many choices that it can be overwhelming. First off, check if the game is being broadcast on any major national networks like ESPN, FS1, or MLB Network. If it is, you can easily stream it through their respective apps, provided you have a valid cable or satellite subscription that includes those channels. These apps are generally available on most devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and streaming devices like Roku or Amazon Fire Stick.

Now, if the game isn't on a national network, things get a bit more interesting. Regional sports networks (RSNs) are often the key. For Cubs fans, that usually means Marquee Sports Network. For A's fans, it's NBC Sports California. However, streaming RSNs can be tricky because not all streaming services carry them. Services like FuboTV and DIRECTV STREAM are your best bets, as they typically include a wide range of RSNs. Just make sure to confirm that they carry the specific RSNs for the Cubs and A's in your area. YouTube TV used to be a great option for RSNs, but they've had some disputes with providers, so always double-check.

Another option is MLB.TV. This is the official streaming service of Major League Baseball, and it lets you watch almost every game live or on-demand. The catch? Local blackout restrictions apply, which means if you're in the Cubs' or A's broadcast territory, you might not be able to watch the game live. However, you can still watch it on-demand after the blackout period ends, usually a few hours after the game finishes. MLB.TV is fantastic if you're an out-of-market fan or don't mind waiting a bit to watch the game.

Other Streaming Alternatives

Don't forget to explore some of the less conventional streaming routes. Some sports bars or restaurants might stream the game through their business accounts, so that's always a fun option if you want to watch with friends. Also, keep an eye on social media. Sometimes, you might find unofficial streams, but be careful with these, as they can be unreliable and potentially illegal. Sticking to official sources is always the safest bet for the best viewing experience.

Cable and Satellite Options

For those of you who still rock the traditional cable or satellite setup, watching the Cubs and A's is usually pretty straightforward. The key is knowing which channels carry the game. As mentioned earlier, national broadcasts will be on channels like ESPN, FS1, and MLB Network. Regional broadcasts will be on your local RSNs, such as Marquee Sports Network for the Cubs and NBC Sports California for the A's. Check your local listings or your provider's channel guide to find the exact channel numbers.

Most cable and satellite providers offer sports packages that include these channels, so if you're a big baseball fan, it might be worth investing in one of those packages. Providers like Comcast, Spectrum, and DirecTV all offer various options, so compare them to see which one best fits your needs and budget. Plus, with cable and satellite, you often get access to streaming apps as part of your subscription, which is a nice bonus.

Using an Antenna

Believe it or not, you might even be able to catch some games with a good old-fashioned antenna! Over-the-air (OTA) broadcasts are still a thing, and sometimes games are shown on local network channels like ABC, CBS, or Fox. This is more likely for nationally televised games, but it's always worth checking your local listings. An antenna is a one-time investment, and you'll get access to free, high-definition TV. It's definitely worth considering, especially if you live close to a broadcast tower.

Checking the MLB Schedule

Before you settle in to watch the game, always double-check the official MLB schedule. Game times and broadcast details can change for various reasons, like weather delays or network scheduling conflicts. The official MLB website is the best place to find the most up-to-date information. You can also use sports apps like ESPN or TheScore to get real-time updates and notifications.

Another handy tip is to follow the Cubs and A's on social media. Their official accounts will often post updates about game broadcasts and any last-minute changes. Plus, you'll get team news and highlights, which is always a win!

Team and League Apps

Don't forget about team-specific and league-wide apps! The MLB app is a must-have for any baseball fan. You can customize it to follow your favorite teams, set up notifications, and even listen to live radio broadcasts of the games. Many teams also have their own apps with similar features. These apps are great for staying connected and getting the latest info on game broadcasts.

Key Considerations

Okay, let's wrap things up with some key considerations to keep in mind. First, location, location, location! Your geographical location plays a huge role in determining which games are available to you. Blackout restrictions, regional sports networks, and local broadcast channels all depend on where you live.

Second, budget is a factor. Streaming services, cable packages, and MLB.TV subscriptions all come with a cost, so figure out what you're willing to spend. There are free options like antennas and potentially unofficial streams, but they might not offer the best viewing experience.

Third, device compatibility matters. Make sure the streaming service or app you choose is compatible with your devices. Most services work on smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and streaming devices, but it's always good to double-check.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it! Finding where to watch the Chicago Cubs vs. Oakland Athletics baseball game doesn't have to be a headache. With a little bit of research and planning, you can easily catch all the action. Whether you prefer streaming, cable, or even an antenna, there's a way for you to enjoy the game. Now, grab your favorite snacks, settle in, and cheer on your team! Go Cubs! Go A's! And most importantly, have fun watching baseball!