As expected, the MLB World Series opener between the New York Yankees and Philadelphia Phillies drew a monster rating–the highest Game 1 since 2004.
But in attracting so many sports fans, FOX’s baseball game enabled ABC’s comedy lineup to remain strong.
Far and away the night’s victor, the World Series game pulled 19.5 million viewers and a 6.3 demo rating, according to preliminary (and rough) ratings data. Such a strong adults 18-49 number will help widen FOX’s lead in the demo this season.
ABC, meanwhile, saw its “Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” special outperform usual 8PM timeslot occupant “Hank” with a 2.0 rating and 6.3 million viewers. “The Middle” followed with an improved 6.6 million viewers and a 2.2. “Modern Family” was up to 9.2 million and a 3.7, while “Cougar Town” posted a 3.2 demo rating for 7.5 million witnesses. “Eastwick” garnered a 1.8 in the demo and 5.1 million viewers overall.
CBS was in repeats for the night, while NBC’s lineup was as expected. The “Monsters vs. Aliens” special drew a 2.2 with 6.9 million, while “Law & Order: SVU” was good for 8 million viewers and a 2.7. “The Jay Leno Show” closed the night with a 1.5 rating in adults 18-49 and 5 million.
