However, while MLB wanted the cable systems to match the same offer as DirecTV, MLB would be providing more generous benefits to DirecTV for the very same offer: DirecTV would be receiving a stake in MLB Network, thereby barring cable systems from receiving the telecasts. Hence, MLB was accused of claiming that cable would not meet the same terms as DirecTV, while not offering the same deal to the cable consortium.
In this situation, MLB wanted the cable networks to agree to the same terms as DirecTV. However, MLB was also providing more favorable benefits to DirecTV: in exchange for its investment, DirecTV would gain control over MLB Network, thereby excluding cable systems from acquiring the rights. As a result, MLB was accused of making it seem like cable systems could not meet the same standards as DirecTV.