ESPN just landed the rights to MLB.TV, shaking up where and how baseball fans will stream games. The new media-rights deal shifts a big chunk of baseball content to ESPN’s platforms, but the MLB App will still work for existing subscribers.
The agreement brings 30 exclusive national games to ESPN and ABC. It also introduces in-market streaming subscriptions for fans who want both local and national coverage.
So, what does this all actually mean for viewers and subscribers? Let’s break it down.
ESPN lands MLB.TV as the new streaming home
Now, ESPN will host MLB.TV’s national feed. That means more baseball across ESPN’s TV channels and digital platforms.
If you already use the MLB App, don’t worry—you’ll still have access through your usual login. Fans can pick whichever entry point fits their habits.
This move looks like MLB’s way of pulling more content into ESPN’s ecosystem. At the same time, they’re keeping the old-school routes open for the die-hards.
The deal also adds in-market streaming and locks in some big dates that should get plenty of eyeballs. Thirty exclusive national games will air on ESPN and ABC, with a mix of season-long marquee events and special moments.
Some of these include Jackie Robinson Day, Memorial Day, the second-half opener, and the Little League Classic. The season opener on ESPN will feature Dodgers vs. Mets on Jackie Robinson Day, April 15.
ABC will air three exclusive weekend afternoon games, all featuring classic big-market matchups.
Exclusive national games and marquee dates
This new slate of nationally televised games will spotlight traditional rivalries and up-and-coming stars. Fans can look forward to some can’t-miss matchups on ESPN or ABC all season long.
- Jackie Robinson Day opener: Dodgers vs. Mets on April 15 (ESPN)
- Marquee national slate on ESPN/ABC across the season (30 exclusive games)
- Memorial Day showcase and other highlighted dates
- Little League Classic as part of the national package
- ABC exclusive weekend afternoon games: Cubs–Giants (June 14), Yankees–Red Sox (June 27), Cardinals–Cubs (August 16)
Subscriptions, access, and pricing
The new deal spells out how fans can watch and what they’ll pay, whether they’re returning subscribers or jumping in for the first time.
If you’re already an MLB.TV subscriber, your subscription will renew automatically through your MLB.TV account. You’ll be able to watch games on either the MLB App or the ESPN App, whichever you prefer.
This automatic renewal means you won’t miss a beat as things switch over. No need to scramble or re-sign up.
For ESPN Unlimited subscribers, MLB.TV is now available as an add-on. You can get it for $134.99 per season, a bit cheaper than the regular $149.99 price.
It’s a pretty good deal if you’re already using ESPN’s streaming and want to tack on baseball.
New MLB.TV customers can sign up through ESPN’s platforms. You’ll even get one month of ESPN Unlimited for free.
You don’t have to keep ESPN Unlimited to hold onto your MLB.TV access, so there’s no long-term catch if you just want to try it out.
The MLB App will still stream MLB.TV for current members with no extra subscription needed. That’s some welcome continuity for folks who’ve stuck with the app for years.
MLB.TV will remain available internationally, and the MLB Extra Innings package isn’t changing for those using traditional TV providers.
What’s included with MLB.TV and where some games live
MLB.TV subscriptions come packed with perks and access points. That’s a big reason so many baseball fans keep coming back.
- Access to MLB Network programming
- Comprehensive pre- and postgame coverage
- Minor League Baseball games and related programming
- MLB Big Inning recap and highlights
- Note: Some nationally exclusive games will continue to be available only on partner platforms
The new ESPN-MLB.TV setup tries to make watching easier and more flexible. Fans get a bigger national lineup on ESPN networks.
Meanwhile, the MLB App and in-market streaming keep local games within reach. ESPN’s involvement also means a more unified platform for operators and advertisers.
Here is the source article for this story: ESPN is the New Home of MLB.TV. Learn More
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