How To Watch Chicago Cubs Games

What's up, baseball fanatics! If you're a die-hard Chicago Cubs fan, or maybe just starting to get into the game, you're probably wondering, "how can I watch Chicago Cubs baseball?" Well, you've come to the right place, guys! We're diving deep into all the ways you can catch every thrilling inning, every nail-biting play, and every glorious home run from your favorite North Siders. It’s not always as simple as flipping on the TV, especially with the ever-changing landscape of sports broadcasting. But don't sweat it! We've broken down all the essential channels, streaming services, and even some sneaky good tips to make sure you don't miss a single pitch. Whether you're a seasoned fan who's been following the Cubbies through thick and thin, or a newcomer eager to experience the magic of Wrigley Field from afar, this guide is your ultimate playbook. So grab your popcorn, put on your lucky Cubs gear, and let's get ready to cheer on the boys in blue!

Decoding the Broadcast Rights: Where the Cubs Actually Play

Alright, let's get down to business, because understanding where to watch the Chicago Cubs games starts with knowing who actually has the broadcast rights. This is arguably the most crucial piece of information, and it can be a bit of a maze. For most Cubs games, you're going to be looking for Marquee Sports Network. This is the dedicated regional sports network (RSN) that carries the vast majority of Cubs games. Think of it as the official home for all things Cubs, broadcasting live games, pre-game shows, post-game analysis, and tons of exclusive content. If you're a local fan in the Chicago market, Marquee Sports Network is going to be your best friend. However, getting access to RSNs can be a bit tricky, and this is where many fans get stuck. It’s not always included in every basic cable package or even every streaming service. You often need a specific tier or package that includes local sports channels. So, before you sign up for anything, always double-check if Marquee Sports Network is included. For out-of-market fans, things get a little more complicated. While MLB.TV is the go-to for out-of-market games, there's a crucial blackout rule you need to be aware of. Games broadcast on your local RSN, like Marquee for Cubs fans, are typically blacked out on MLB.TV. This means if you're outside the Cubs' home market, you might still be able to catch their games on MLB.TV, but if you're within the Cubs' broadcast region, you’ll likely need an alternative. It's a bummer, I know, but that's the way the cookie crumbles with sports rights. So, in essence, for the most comprehensive coverage, Marquee Sports Network is key. Understanding this is the first step to ensuring you don't miss a single moment of Cubs action. We'll get into the specific ways to access Marquee and other options in the sections below, so keep reading!

Cable & Satellite Options: The Traditional Route

For many, the traditional way to watch sports is still through a cable or satellite provider. If you're a Chicago Cubs fan and leaning towards this method, you'll want to make sure your package includes Marquee Sports Network. This is non-negotiable for getting the most Cubs games. Major providers in the Chicago area and surrounding regions that typically offer Marquee Sports Network include Xfinity (Comcast), DirecTV, and Dish Network. However, and this is a big however, the specific channel number can vary depending on your exact location and the provider's packaging. So, you’ll need to do a little digging. Go to your provider’s website, search for Marquee Sports Network, and see if it’s part of the channels they offer. Often, RSNs like Marquee are part of a sports package or a higher-tier cable bundle. This means that while you might be able to get Cubs games, it could come at a slightly higher monthly cost than a basic package. Don't just assume it's included! You need to verify. For example, with Xfinity, Marquee is usually available on specific tiers in the Chicago area. With DirecTV and Dish, you might need to look into their sports packages. It’s always a good idea to call your provider directly if you’re unsure. Ask them specifically, “Do you carry Marquee Sports Network, and what package is it in?” This direct approach saves you from potential headaches later. Additionally, some providers might offer the ability to stream live TV through their own apps if you subscribe to their service. So, even if you're away from your main TV, you might be able to catch the game on your tablet or phone. Keep in mind that cable and satellite subscriptions often come with long-term contracts, and the monthly bills can add up. But, if you're already a subscriber or prefer the reliability of traditional TV, ensuring Marquee Sports Network is in your lineup is the way to go for watching Cubs baseball. It’s a straightforward, albeit sometimes costly, path to cheering on your team.

Streaming Marquee Sports Network: Cutting the Cord and Staying Connected

So, you're looking to cut the cord or maybe you already have, but you still want to watch the Chicago Cubs live? Good news, guys, streaming options for Marquee Sports Network have become much more accessible. The most direct way to stream Marquee Sports Network if you're within the Cubs' broadcast market is through their own streaming service, Marquee Sports Network Plus. This is a fantastic option for fans who don't have cable or satellite but are located in the geographical area where Marquee is the RSN. You can subscribe directly to Marquee Sports Network Plus and stream games on your computer, phone, or tablet. It's designed specifically for fans within the broadcast footprint. However, it's crucial to reiterate: this is not for out-of-market fans. If you're outside the Cubs' broadcast region, this won't get you the games due to RSN blackout rules. Another popular route for cord-cutters is through live TV streaming services that carry RSNs. Services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and Sling TV (with specific add-ons) have started offering Marquee Sports Network in their packages, especially for subscribers in the Chicago area. YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV are often the most comprehensive options because they tend to include a wider array of local channels and RSNs. Sling TV can be a more budget-friendly option, but you’ll likely need to add their “Sports Extra” package to get Marquee. Again, always verify that the service offers Marquee Sports Network in your specific zip code before subscribing. Streaming services often have different channel lineups based on your location. The beauty of these streaming services is their flexibility. You can usually cancel anytime, and you can watch on a multitude of devices. This makes it super convenient to catch a game whether you’re at home, traveling, or just want to watch on a different screen. So, if you’re ready to embrace the streaming life while keeping up with the Cubs, these are your go-to options for streaming Cubs games. It offers a great balance of access and flexibility for the modern fan.

MLB.TV: For the Out-of-Market Fan

Now, let's talk about the holy grail for baseball fans living outside the Chicago Cubs' broadcast market: MLB.TV. If you're a die-hard Cubs fan living in, say, Los Angeles, New York, or even overseas, and you want to watch Cubs games online, MLB.TV is likely your primary solution. This subscription service gives you access to live, out-of-market games from every MLB team. So, you can catch all the Cubs games you want, provided they aren't being broadcast locally in your current area. This is the key distinction: MLB.TV is designed to let you follow your favorite team when they are not being shown on your local RSN. This means that if you are in the Chicago market and try to watch a Cubs game on MLB.TV, it will almost certainly be blacked out. It's a frustrating but necessary part of how baseball broadcasts work to protect the rights of regional sports networks. So, how do you use MLB.TV effectively for the Cubs? Simple: if you are not in the Chicago area or its surrounding broadcast territories, MLB.TV is your ticket. You can subscribe to the entire league package or sometimes just follow a single team (though the full league pass is more common). You can watch on pretty much any device imaginable – smart TVs, streaming devices like Roku and Fire Stick, game consoles, computers, and mobile devices. The streaming quality is generally excellent, and it offers features like multi-game views and condensed game recaps. It’s the ultimate tool for nomadic Cubs fans. Just remember that crucial blackout rule. If you're unsure if you're in the blackout zone, you can usually check the MLB.TV website or your provider's terms and conditions. But generally, if you're far from Chicago, you're golden. This is how you ensure you're watching every Cubs game that matters to you, no matter the distance.

Other Ways to Catch the Action: Radio, Podcasts, and More

While watching the Chicago Cubs on TV or streaming is the ultimate experience, sometimes life gets in the way, or you just prefer a different kind of immersion. Don't worry, there are still plenty of ways to stay connected with the team. For many, the classic and arguably most passionate way to follow baseball is through radio. WGN Radio 720 AM is the flagship station for Cubs baseball, and they broadcast virtually every game. Even if you can't watch, you can listen to the legendary voices of Pat Hughes and the broadcast crew paint a vivid picture of the game. This is perfect for when you're driving, working, or just want to multitask. You can listen to WGN Radio on your actual radio, or stream it online through their website or various radio streaming apps. Plus, many Cubs games are also available via MLB Audio through your MLB.TV subscription or as a standalone purchase. This is fantastic for out-of-market fans who might want an audio-only option. Beyond live radio, there’s a whole world of Cubs-related content available through podcasts. Numerous podcasts break down every game, analyze player performance, discuss team news, and offer historical insights. Search for Cubs podcasts on your favorite podcast app, and you'll find everything from daily recaps to deep dives into team history. Following the team on social media platforms like Twitter (X) is also essential. Official Cubs accounts and sports journalists often provide live updates, key play-by-play, and immediate reactions. It’s a great way to get real-time information even if you can't watch the game. Finally, don't forget the official MLB app. While it won’t stream games you're blacked out from (unless you have MLB.TV and are out-of-market), it provides scores, schedules, and news updates that keep you in the loop. These alternative methods ensure that no matter your situation, you can always stay close to the action and keep the Cubs spirit alive. They're brilliant for staying connected when you can't be glued to a screen, proving that there are more ways than one to follow your team.

Final Thoughts: Never Miss a Cubs Game Again!

So there you have it, Cubs faithful! We've covered the ins and outs of how to watch Chicago Cubs baseball, from the traditional cable routes to the slicker streaming services and even the reliable radio waves. Whether you're in the heart of Chicago and need Marquee Sports Network through your cable provider or a live TV streaming service, or you're living the dream miles away and relying on MLB.TV for your out-of-market fix, the options are there. Remember the golden rule: verify Marquee Sports Network availability in your area if you're local, and understand the blackout rules for MLB.TV if you're not. For those moments when watching isn't an option, the trusty radio broadcasts and the ever-growing world of Cubs podcasts and social media updates have your back. It’s all about finding the method that best fits your lifestyle and budget. The Cubs have such a passionate fanbase, and thankfully, there are more ways than ever to be a part of the action. Don't let another walk-off win or a spectacular diving catch pass you by. Get set up with your preferred method, fire up the game, and let's go Cubs, go! We're here to help you stay locked in, so go forth and enjoy the game!