MLB Announces New Three-Year Media Rights Deals with ESPN, NBC, and Netflix

Major League Baseball has officially announced new three-year media rights agreements with ESPN, NBC, and Netflix that will span the 2026 to 2028 seasons. According to ESPN, the revised deal includes out-of-market streaming rights, allowing ESPN to continue its long-standing relationship with MLB, which dates back to 1990. ESPN will pay approximately $550 million annually, retaining rights for MLB.TV, which provides access to out-of-market games. This new agreement will enable fans to watch games through the ESPN app, including in-market rights for six teams: the San Diego Padres, Colorado Rockies, Arizona Diamondbacks, Cleveland Guardians, Minnesota Twins, and Seattle Mariners. ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro emphasized the importance of this fan-friendly agreement, highlighting its focus on enhancing streaming access for baseball fans. Although ESPN loses the rights to postseason games and the Home Run Derby, it will still air 30 exclusive weeknight games each season. Commissioner Rob Manfred noted that the evolution of this relationship is significant as MLB continues to adapt to the changing media landscape.

NBC, returning to MLB broadcasting after a lengthy hiatus, will host the Sunday Night Baseball games and the wild-card round of the playoffs, utilizing its streaming service, Peacock, for broadcasts. NBC's first game is scheduled for March 26, 2026, featuring the Los Angeles Dodgers against the Arizona Diamondbacks. NBC's Rick Cordella expressed excitement about welcoming MLB back to its sports lineup, which has been dominated by NFL coverage. The network will also broadcast the Futures Game and the MLB Draft during All-Star Week, showcasing top minor league talents alongside its traditional Sunday broadcasts.

Netflix, known primarily for its streaming content, is making a significant move into live sports with this deal. The platform will air the season-opening game on March 25, 2026, featuring the New York Yankees against the San Francisco Giants. Additionally, Netflix will broadcast the T-Mobile Home Run Derby and the Field of Dreams Game in 2026, marking a notable expansion of its engagement with MLB. Bela Bajaria, Chief Content Officer at Netflix, emphasized the company's commitment to bringing major sports events to its audience, which has over 300 million subscribers globally. Netflix's foray into live sports follows its success with MLB-themed documentaries, and it aims to enhance its offering by including live events that resonate with baseball fans.

These media rights agreements are projected to average nearly $800 million per year across the three networks, a significant boost for MLB's visibility and revenue generation. The new deals come on the heels of a successful 2025 season, which saw increased viewership metrics and fan engagement across various demographics. As the landscape of sports broadcasting continues to evolve, these partnerships with ESPN, NBC, and Netflix are designed to expand MLB's reach and enhance the overall fan experience.