Specifically, the method uses data from existing geolocation specialist Quova to analzse a web user’s location - if the result doesn’t fall within a specified confidence threshold, the system carries out further tests using any data available on the MLB record, like PayPal accounts and billing addresses.

MLBAM has been broadcasting live and catch-up games through MLB.tv since 2003, starting at $79.95 a year. While the patent seems primarily designed to comply with TV rights, it also has uses for “sweepstakes, contests, promotions and fantasy games”, the description says. And it doesn’t stop there: “Localized news, weather, and events listings may be targeted at a network entity” and it “may be utilized to direct advertisements or offer other information via a network that has a higher likelihood of being the relevant to a network user”. So, while the system will block certain games from users, it will also serve them targeted marketing. But a select few won’t be subject to the system’s black-outs - according to the patent, “determination is made as to whether the customer is a preferred customer, such as an executive of a sports team or a family member of a team player”; if so, they are treated differently online.