Major League Baseball games will have new television and streaming homes beginning with the 2026 season following the expiration of ESPN’s media rights contract.
Although MLB content will still be featured on the self-proclaimed “worldwide leader in sports” next year, its previous package of events are being redistributed to other networks and services.
According to multiple reports, Peacock (NBC) is set to take over “Sunday Night Baseball” and the Wild Card Series, while the Home Run Derby will likely be heading to Netflix.
MLB has yet to formally announce any new media contracts but commissioner Rob Manfred said he is happy with the way things turned out, during an appearance on MLB Network:
“I’m thrilled with the way it all shook out. Start by saying important that ESPN stay involved with the game. Really glad it worked out. I think having NBC having network exposure for Sunday Night Baseball is a real plus for us. Being part of that year-round Sunday night programming on NBC, I think is going to be really good for the game. And bringing in really a huge presence in the media space – Netflix – for some of our event games, it was a nice mix for us all the way around.”
MLB having exposure to multiple major platforms can only help the league expand their audience, so it’s easy to see why Manfred is excited about their new media deals.
A downside to MLB diversifying their offerings is fans needing subscriptions to more networks and services. However, the multiple broadcasting partners will likely lead to more revenue for the league in the long run.
MLB remaining on ESPN
Recent reports indicate that ESPN will still televise weekday MLB games next year. They could also look to acquire the rights to MLB.TV and eventually integrate it into their new app.
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