After 17 years of guiding MLB’s digital strategy, Bob Bowman is stepping down as President, Business & Media of Major League Baseball when his contract expires in December.
Bowman joined MLB in 2000 and built MLB Advanced Media into a digital powerhouse, culminating in the development and subsequent sale of a majority stake in BAMTech (built on the groundbreaking steaming technology powering MLB.TV) as well as the establishment and growth of the MLB Network. Now, at a time when every major sport is chasing an advanced digital strategy, MLB is already an established player.
“With the recent completion of the sale of a majority stake in BAMTech to The Walt Disney Company, and recognizing the enormous talent pool that exists at MLB and MLB.com, it is an ideal time for new leadership,” Bowman said in a press statement. “Of all that we have accomplished, I am most proud of the people I have worked with, many of whom have been with me each step of the way over the past 17 years.
“I want to especially thank Commissioner Manfred for his leadership and support. He has made MLB the most partner-friendly league, expanded the game by solving in-market streaming and pushed for RSN distribution on VMVPDs. He had the courage to invest in BAMTech and has overseen substantial revenue distribution to the Clubs. I am forever in his and this great game’s debt.”
“I understand Bob’s desire to step away and respect his decision. Like the owners of our 30 clubs, I am grateful for the groundbreaking work that he and his team have performed for our sport,” said MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred in a press release. “Bob’s vision made our game even more accessible and enjoyable to millions of fans. He and I will work closely to ensure a smooth transition in the weeks ahead, and our talented staff at MLB, MLB Advanced Media and MLB Network will continue to build on his many accomplishments. I thank Bob for a job well done and wish him the very best.”