ESPN Finalizes MLB.tv Deal, Making Out-of-Market Games Exclusive to Its App in 2026

Overview

• Puck's John Ourand reports ESPN has finalized the acquisition of MLB.tv.
• MLB.tv will be available only within the ESPN app starting with the 2026 season.
• Despite the Disney–YouTube TV carriage pact for ESPN Unlimited, MLB.tv will not be offered on YouTube TV.
• MLB has not formally announced the new three-year rights packages with ESPN, NBCUniversal, and Netflix, though NBC has teased dozens of regular-season games plus some postseason inventory.
• ESPN's package is expected to include a weeknight game slate and local rights for five clubs, while pricing and bundling for MLB.tv inside the ESPN app remain undisclosed.