Basically unless you are talking about channels like EPSN, the channels one should be able to get OTA should be free if streamed with commercials. I don't think channels like ESPN should have commercials if you are paying for them, but then again, I understand that is a losing proposition.
Ok. But keep in mind that there are costs to stream vs broadcasting over the air. Also different rules/laws that govern that and rebroadcasting.
I believe that one of the reasons Apple wants to not stream these networks is not only their desire to cut down on drains on their resources, but also because they would likely be liable for distribution costs above and beyond what they would have by the network themselves having a channel available.