MLB’s latest move is shaking up in-market, blackout-free streaming for 21 of its 30 clubs. This article dives into how fans can actually catch local games, whether that’s through the MLB App, Club.TV, or ESPN’s platform.
Let’s talk pricing, RSN partnerships, and the new production bells and whistles. Opening Day’s coming up fast, so here’s what you need to know.
In-market streaming expansion at a glance
MLB’s broadening blackout-free access for a big chunk of its clubs. Fans now get more flexibility to watch local games, no matter where they are.
The MLB App still carries MLB.TV and Club.TV content at no extra charge for subscribers. In-market subscriptions are up for grabs on club sites and the MLB App for most teams.
This move aims to make local-game viewing easier, whether you ditched cable or still have an RSN. Depending on the market, you’ll see a mix of options.
Some teams are sticking with RSN partners. Others are going without RSNs, all as part of MLB’s new distribution strategy.
Pricing and access by market
Here’s how pricing looks, depending on your team’s setup:
- 15 teams not tied to RSNs: MLB.TV is still $99.99 per season or $19.99 per month. There’s also a bundle—local stream plus MLB.TV—for $199.99 per season or $39.99 per month.
- Six clubs with RSN distributions (Athletics, Orioles, Dodgers, Mets, Phillies, Giants): broadcasts go through RSN partners, and prices and packages change by market.
- Local production for some teams: MLB will handle local broadcasts for a few clubs, adding stuff like drones, wire cams, and umpire cams for a fresh viewing angle. Spring training games for these teams will stream free if you’ve got an MLB.com account.
ESPN deal and how to subscribe
With a new media deal, ESPN now has the rights to sell MLB.TV and will offer the service in the ESPN App. MLB.TV subscribers don’t need ESPN Unlimited to watch games, which is a relief.
Here’s what it means for current and new customers:
- Existing MLB.TV subscribers get auto-renewed and can stream on either the MLB or ESPN apps.
- Existing ESPN Unlimited subscribers get a break—discounted MLB.TV pricing: $134.99 instead of the usual $149.99.
- New customers can sign up for MLB.TV through ESPN platforms and snag one month of ESPN Unlimited free, no strings attached.
- New and existing MLB.TV subscribers will still access games through MLB.TV. The ESPN App just gives another way in for some plans.
What fans should know about nationally exclusive games and spring training
Not every game shows up on MLB.TV or Club.TV. Nationally exclusive games carried by MLB media partners won’t appear on MLB.TV/Club.TV, so fans still need to look elsewhere for some broadcasts.
As Opening Day gets closer, local cable and satellite channel info will drop. That’ll help fans figure out where to catch their team’s games in their area.
For clubs using RSN-backed broadcasts, spring training games will stream free with an MLB.com account. It’s a pretty solid way to check out the team before the real season kicks off, and you don’t have to pay extra.
Here is the source article for this story: A complete guide to navigating MLB.TV in 2026
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