Jan. 17--The Cubs believe they would need to start their own network two years before they telecast their games.
"We would need a two-year runway," Cubs business President Crane Kenney said Saturday from the Cubs Convention at the Sheraton Grand Chicago.
The Cubs continue to explore all options for when their agreements with CSN, WGN and WLS expire after the 2019 season. But they seem leaning to running their own network unless an offer overwhelms them, as was the case when they struck a deal with CBS Radio for their rights before the 2015 season.
The Cubs will have a showcase studio in their soon-to-be completed new building but would need ample time to secure distribution and content partners if they elect to operate their own network.
Kenney seemed optimistic Cubs fans will be able to watch local games on their mobile devices, pending an agreement with Major League Baseball and rights holders.
DH delay: President Theo Epstein isn't optimistic the National League will adopt the designated hitter.
"It's above our pay grade," said Epstein, who has a plethora of young hitters. "It's an issue with the commissioner and the owners, and we can't count on it. There are no indications the DH is coming (to the NL) any time soon.
"We're planning on building an NL club and NL rules for years to come and emphasizing defense and versatility to be able to adjust."
As for fielding calls on teams interested in acquiring NL Rookie of the Year Kris Bryant or Kyle Schwarber, general manager Jed Hoyer dismissed the idea.
"(Calls) end very quickly," he smiled.
Extra innings: The Cubs are learning toward a switch to mobile ticketing in the future, with fans having the chance to receive replica tickets printed. Season-ticket renewals are at 98 percent from last year, the Cubs said, and spring training ticket sales have doubled. ... Pitching coach Chris Bosio said Trevor Cahill turned down a two-year offer to start for the Pirates to return to the Cubs for a one-year, $4.25 million contract with no guarantee of a spot in the bullpen.
