WLW, Reds agree

The Reds and WLW agreed to five-year deal. This is new in the sense that Reds will sell most of advertising. The release:

The Cincinnati Reds and 700 WLW Radio have agreed to terms on a 5-year contract extension through the 2012 season. The previous contract expired after the 2007 campaign.

WLW Radio has been the club's radio rightsholder since 1969. The Reds Radio Network is one of the largest in professional sports, with 46 affiliates in 6 states, and each season broadcasts a minimum of 18 spring training games and all 162 regular season games.

"WLW Radio and the Reds have been linked together for almost 40 years, and our fans are passionate about both," said club President and Chief Executive Officer Bob Castellini. "We're excited about continuing one of the best broadcast partnerships in sports."

Under the new agreement, the Reds will sell all but 1 minute of the in-game, 1 minute of the pre-game and 1 minute of the post-game advertising. WLW and the Red will split the inventory for Hot Stove League shows.

The Reds will retain their control over the hiring of broadcasters.