ESPN and MLB Finalize New 3-Year Media Rights Deal

ESPN and Major League Baseball have finalized a new three-year media rights deal, marking a significant evolution in their long-standing partnership. The agreement includes out-of-market streaming rights, allowing ESPN to enhance its offerings to fans.

NBC and Netflix will also be key players in this new arrangement, with NBC becoming the new home for 'Sunday Night Baseball' and the wild-card round, while Netflix will air the Home Run Derby and two additional games.

This multi-faceted deal averages nearly 800 million dollars per year, with ESPN contributing 550 million dollars, NBC providing 200 million dollars, and Netflix at 50 million dollars. ESPN, which has been broadcasting baseball since 1990, will lose some postseason games and the Home Run Derby but gains the rights to MLB.TV, which will be accessible via the ESPN App.

Commissioner Rob Manfred emphasized the importance of maintaining the relationship with ESPN, calling them a foundational element of MLB's broadcast strategy. The agreement allows for in-market streaming rights for six teams, including the San Diego Padres and the Cleveland Guardians.

Manfred noted that this is a significant evolution of their relationship, consistent with ESPN's ongoing focus on streaming. Even without 'Sunday Night Baseball,' ESPN will broadcast 30 games primarily on weeknights during the summer months.

NBC, celebrating its 100th anniversary next year, has a rich history with baseball, although its recent involvement has been minimal. Their first game will feature the defending champion Los Angeles Dodgers against the Arizona Diamondbacks on March 26.

The new deal ensures that NBC will have a year-round Sunday night sports lineup, complementing their NFL and upcoming NBA broadcasts. The early afternoon games will also return to Peacock, leading into a studio whip-around show before the Sunday night game.

Netflix's involvement aligns with its strategy of securing major sporting events, also hosting an NFL doubleheader this Christmas. In addition to the Home Run Derby, Netflix will air the first game of the season on March 25, showcasing the New York Yankees and the San Francisco Giants.

Complications arose during negotiations as MLB sought to accommodate its other rights holders, including Fox and Turner Sports. According to reports, MLB aims for a more national approach to its broadcasting rights in future deals, reducing reliance on regional sports networks.

This comprehensive deal highlights the shifting landscape of sports broadcasting and the ongoing evolution of viewer engagement in major league sports.