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3h ago

Mariners to Shut Down ROOT Sports Northwest as MLB Takes Over 2026 Broadcasts

Subscriber losses at regional sports networks prompted the shift.

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Sep 25, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Mariners catcher Mitch Garver (18) shakes hands with pitcher Casey Legumina (64) following a victory against the Colorado Rockies inning at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images/File Photo
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Overview

  • The team said Sunday’s regular-season finale will be ROOT Sports’ last Mariners telecast, with the channel slated to cease operations by December 31.
  • Major League Baseball will produce and distribute Mariners games in 2026 through its MLB Local Media operation, joining the Padres, Diamondbacks, Rockies, Guardians and Twins.
  • More than 25 ROOT Sports employees were told they will be laid off effective November 3, while most on-air talent is expected to continue under team employment or contract.
  • Specific cable and streaming partners for 2026 have not been announced, with industry reports of a potential ESPN role described as developing and unconfirmed.
  • Mariners ownership cited a steep drop in subscribers in recent years as a key factor, reflecting a wider decline in the RSN model after carrier tier changes and loss of other team rights.