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2d ago

MLB Reaches Agreements in Principle on 2026–28 Media Packages With NBC, Netflix, Apple and ESPN

The short-term structure positions MLB for a full rights overhaul in 2028.

Jeremy O'Brien-Front Office Sports
MLB commissioner Rob Manfred at the Front Office Sports "Tuned In" event. (Derek Futterman, Sports Media Watch)
Courtesy: Derek Futterman, Sports Media Watch
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Overview

  • Commissioner Rob Manfred said MLB has agreements in principle with NBCUniversal, Netflix, Apple TV+ and ESPN for 2026–28, though issues remain before final approval.
  • The pending plan would place Sunday night regular-season games and Wild Card series on NBC’s broadcast platforms, assign the Home Run Derby to Netflix, and add Apple TV+ regular-season windows.
  • ESPN’s reconfigured role under discussion includes a midweek national package plus in-market rights for the Diamondbacks, Guardians, Rockies, Twins and Padres, with reported talks involving potential MLB.TV licensing.
  • Manfred said the combined packages aim to replicate the economics of ESPN’s opted-out deal, while acknowledging that shorter terms constrain overall pricing.
  • ESPN’s Jimmy Pitaro said negotiations have made good progress and emphasized interest in local rights, as Manfred projected that all 30 clubs’ local rights could be in play for a centralized solution by 2028.