MLB Network to launch January 1, 2009

(from tvpredictions.com) MLB Network, the new 24-hour baseball channel, is scheduled to launch on January 1, according to Broadcasting and Cable Magazine.

The channel, which will offer both a high-def and standard-def signal, is expected to be available on DIRECTV and several cable systems at launch.

B&C reports that MLB estimates that 50 million cable and satellite homes will offer the channel on January 1, although not all will have the HD version.