SAN JOSE, Calif., March 31, 2011 –MLB Network and Cisco today announced a multiyear relationship that features Cisco technology solutions in key video-dependent areas for MLB Network's television programming and live telecasts from ballparks around Major League Baseball.

Highlights:

• Cisco TelePresence will be utilized on MLB's new afternoon talk show, "Intentional Talk," hosted by Chris Rose and Kevin Millar, (Monday - Friday 5 p.m. – 6 p.m. ET). When not airing from MLB Network's Studio 42 in Secaucus, N.J., Cisco TelePresence will connect Millar in Texas and Rose in California to each other and to other content.
• Cisco TelePresence technology creates a live, face-to-face communication experience over the network that empowers participants to collaborate wherever they are in the world. Cisco TelePresence solutions help people meet, share content, create high-quality video recordings and events, consult with experts and deliver powerful personalized services, all using the power of the network for an immersive life-like experience.
• Cisco Ballpark Cams – Since 2009, MLB Network has deployed robotic cameras in Major League ballparks across the country, powered by Cisco network technology solutions. These systems, which are now featured in 29 ballparks, reside in either center field, behind home plate, or in dugouts. The systems are used extensively across the network for live interviews and action before and after games. Video from the ballparks travels over the Cisco network from every site back to MLB Network's studios.
• Whether it's batting practice, interviews with players and managers, a look at the weather in each park, dialogue with reporters, reactions from players in the dugout, or any other use, Cisco Ballpark Cams can enable MLB Network to have a presence at each stadium without having to deploy full crews to gather news. 
• Cisco Ballpark Cams are used on several broadcast shows, including "The Rundown," (Monday – Friday, 3 p.m. – 5 p.m. ET), "Intentional Talk" (Monday – Friday, 5 p.m. – 6 p.m. ET) and "MLB Tonight" (Monday – Friday, 6 p.m. ET – midnight ET; Saturdays surrounding game coverage and Sunday 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. ET). 

Supporting Quotes:

• Bill Morningstar, executive vice president, advertising sales, MLB Network

"Cisco is best in class in everything they do from their leading edge technology to their marketing relationships, and we are very excited to work with them on both fronts. Having collaborated since 2009 on our acclaimed Ballpark Cam system, MLB Network is excited to welcome Cisco as an integral part of the newest addition to our programming lineup, 'Intentional Talk.'"

• Diane Dudeck, senior director, worldwide media and sports & entertainment marketing, Cisco

"Cisco is excited to step up to the plate and play ball with MLB Network. Forward-thinking cable networks such as MLB Network recognize the power and scale of network technologies to power critical video components of their programming."

Supporting Resources

MLB Network

• Cisco Ballpark Cams
• MLB Network Facebook
• MLB Network Twitter

Cisco

• Cisco Sports and Entertainment
• Cisco's Twitter
• Become a Cisco Systems Facebook fan

Tags / Keywords:

Cisco, Sports, Technology, TelePresence, Video, Collaboration, Baseball

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About MLB Network

MLB Network is the ultimate television destination for baseball fans, featuring live games, original programming, highlights, and insights and analysis from the best in the business, including Bob Costas, Harold Reynolds, Al Leiter and Peter Gammons. MLB Network launched on January 1, 2009 as the largest launch in cable television history and is currently distributed in approximately 57 million cable, telco TV and satellite homes throughout the U.S. and Puerto Rico. For more information and to find MLB Network in your area, go to www.mlbnetwork.com.