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14h ago

MLB Nears 2026–28 Rights Overhaul: Apple Reported Out as NBC Poised for Prime Windows and ESPN Eyes MLB.tv

Source reporting portrays a near-final repackage that could reshape where fans find weekly games and early-round postseason action.

A general view during the MLB Little League Classic between the Seattle Mariners and the New York Mets at Bowman Field
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Overview

  • Yahoo Sports’ Kendall Baker reports the deals are close, with Apple exiting Friday Night Baseball, NBC/Peacock positioned for Friday and Sunday exclusives plus the Wild Card round, ESPN in talks to acquire MLB.tv, and Netflix set for the Home Run Derby.
  • All parties have not announced agreements, spokespeople declined immediate comment, and multiple outlets stress that terms remain subject to change.
  • The contemplated packages would run through 2028 to align with MLB’s existing national deals with Fox and TNT Sports.
  • Apple’s Friday package was a seven-year deal reported at about $85 million annually from 2022, and coverage notes uncertainty over the mechanism for an early exit despite reported contractual latitude.
  • Commissioner Rob Manfred said he expects a resolution within weeks, while reporting links ESPN’s pursuit of MLB.tv to its direct-to-consumer strategy, with industry chatter also pointing to interest in local distribution.