The Countdown To The MLB Network Launch Continues….

With the MLB Network launch getting closer, we keep getting more tidbits about the channel. And you see the logo to your left, thanks to the fine people at MLB Network for sending it over.

Yesterday, MLB Network started a 10 day countdown to its launch and announced that Barry Larkin was joining its studio team, adding to the already hired Matt Vasgersian, Victor Rojas, Joe Magrane, Al Leiter, Harold Reynolds, Dan Plesac, Trenni Kusnierek and Hazel Mae.

Today with 9 days remaining to the launch of MLB Network, we get another news item fabout a feature that the NFL Network is currently using, but MLB Network is going one better.

9…… MLB NETWORK TO INSTALL “BALLPARK CAMS” IN EVERY MLB STADIUM

MLB Network is beginning the process of installing two cameras in each Major League stadium that will be controlled from the MLB Network studios in Secaucus, N.J., in order to fully realize the potential of MLB Tonight, the live studio show that will air each Monday-Saturday night during the baseball season.

These “Ballpark Cams” will be used for live pre- and post-game interviews with players and other subjects, as well as for live “look-ins” during games. MLB Tonight will begin at 6:00 p.m. ET every Monday through Saturday during the baseball season, and stay on the air until the final game of the night is complete. During the show, MLB Network’s on-air talent will have multiple opportunities to utilize the “Ballpark Cams” – – including checking in on batting practice, pre-game warm-ups, weather updates, bullpen activity, etc. – – all while controlling the cameras remotely from the studios in Secaucus, N.J.

We’ll be back tomorrow with item #8. To recap, here’s our list of news items to date:

10. Barry Larkin Joins MLB Network
9. MLB Network to Install “Ballpark Cams” in Every MLB Stadium

MLB Network is launching in 50 million homes, the largest launch of any channel in cable and satellite TV history.

Thanks to Jeff Heckelman of MLB Network for sending over the press release and for sending an advance copy of the Don Larsen Perfect Game from the 1956 World Series. In the final days before the launch, I’ll give you my impressions of the broadcast which was originally aired by NBC and called by Hall of Fame announcers Mel Allen and Vin Scully. And the commercials were preserved in the broadcast! Anyway, don’t want to give away too much, I’ll have a full review coming up.