Introduction to Horacio de la Vega and the Liga Mexicana de Beisbol (LMB)
Horacio de la Vega, the president of the Liga Mexicana de Beisbol (LMB), has been instrumental in shaping the financial landscape of Mexican baseball as the league celebrates its centennial year. Under his leadership, the LMB has experienced significant growth, reflected in player transfers, increased broadcast rights sales, and a broader audience reach.
Expansion into New Markets
For the first time, fans in Venezuela and the Dominican Republic can now watch LMB games, according to de la Vega. This expansion is a result of centralized commercial decision-making initiated in 2020.
Revenue Growth and Partnerships
De la Vega highlighted the LMB’s revaluation, evident in increased franchise value, more sponsors, and international player agreements. He stated, “The value of the franchises was ‘X’ and now it’s ‘3X,’ a 300% revaluation, which is a conservative estimate. We’ve seen over 1,200% growth in sponsors since 2019.”
Broadcast Rights and Audience Reach
The LMB has secured approximately 35 broadcasting contracts in 30 countries. Domestically, there are 9-10 national television channels, along with local public and private media outlets purchasing rights in Aguascalientes, Oaxaca, Quintana Roo, and other designated locations.
- The LMB offers more than 220 regular-season games, playoff matches, and is categorized into AAA, AA, and A based on viewer ratings.
- No team is allowed to broadcast games on another television station; this rule was established by the Assembly. Teams must cede production and broadcasting rights to the league.
- The LMB operates a separate business unit for broadcasting, distinguishing between production costs and revenue generated from rights sales.
Impact on Players and Fans
The LMB’s growth has positively impacted both players and fans. Increased broadcasting rights sales and sponsorships have led to better player contracts, attracting more talent to the league. Simultaneously, fans in previously untapped markets like Venezuela and the Dominican Republic can now follow their favorite teams and players.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Horacio de la Vega? Horacio de la Vega is the president of the Liga Mexicana de Beisbol (LMB), leading the league through significant financial growth and expansion.
- What changes has de la Vega implemented? De la Vega centralized commercial decision-making, leading to increased franchise value, more sponsors, and international player agreements.
- How has the LMB’s audience reach grown? The LMB now has broadcasting contracts in 30 countries, with more than 60 television viewers in Mexico. Fans in Venezuela and the Dominican Republic can now watch LMB games.
- What is the impact on players and fans? The LMB’s growth has resulted in better player contracts, attracting more talent. Fans in previously untapped markets can now follow their favorite teams and players.
