Web site asks fans to lobby for MASN

Nats-O's network wants on basic cable

The cable network that carries the Baltimore Orioles and Washington Nationals is taking its fight with Time Warner Cable into cyberspace.

On Monday, MASN launched a Web site designed to rally public opinion on its side. The site, called playballnow.org, encourages viewers to lobby Time Warner Cable, the Federal Communications Commission, elected officials, the N.C. attorney general, newspapers and sports-talk radio stations.

MASN obtained the rights to carry the Orioles and Nationals in the Triangle this season but is not carried by Time Warner despite more than a year of negotiations.

New technology allows citizens "to take action to produce the desired results," MASN spokesman Todd Webster said. "People are unhappy. MASN has heard from hundreds and hundreds of people who are upset about it. This now empowers them and gives them a tool to make their voices heard."

Time Warner's corporate offices did not respond to a request for comment.

Earlier this month, MASN filed for arbitration in an attempt to resolve the dispute, although Time Warner disputed the network's ability to do so. Webster said MASN is awaiting Time Warner's response before an arbitrator can be selected.

Satellite providers like DirecTV and Dish Network carry MASN in the Triangle. Time Warner has offered MASN a spot on its digital system, while the network has demanded a spot on basic cable with ESPN and Fox Sports Net South.