Feb 5, 2025; New Orleans, LA, USA; The ESPN logo at the Super Bowl LIX media center at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
ESPN and Major League Baseball Say Goodbye After 2025 Season
In a surprising yet calculated move, ESPN and Major League Baseball (MLB) announced that they will no longer be broadcast partners beyond the 2025 season. This shift marks a significant change in the landscape of sports media. The termination comes after both parties mutually opted out of their existing seven-year contract worth $550 million annually.
ESPN’s Request for Budget Cuts Spurs the Decision
According to a memo from MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred, ESPN approached the league with a request to reduce the amount paid for MLB content over the remaining term of the current agreement. Given the current market trends where platforms like Apple and Roku are delivering slimmer packages of games at lower costs, ESPN’s desecond to afford the previous terms.
MLB’s Dissatisfaction with ESPN’s Promotional Efforts
MLB was not inclined to renegotiate the contract terms. The league felt that ESPN was not doing enough to promote baseball on its platforms. MLB has been concerned with the minimal coverage outside of actual live game broadcasts, which has not been satisfactory to the league.
MLB’s Perspective on the Partnership
“Furthermore, we have not been pleased with the minimal coverage that MLB has received on ESPN’s platforms over the past several years outside of the actual live game coverage,” Manfred stated in part of the memo obtained by The Athletic.
MLB’s Strategy Moving Forward
MLB is wavering towards a new broadcast and/or streaming platform rather than accepting a smaller deal on a shrinking platform. Manfred expressed his belief that it is not prudent to devalue the league’s rights with an existing partner but rather ensure that its marquee regular season games, Home Run Derby, and Wild Card playoff round are on a dynamic new channel.
ESPN’s Statement on the Decision
ESPN confirmed the mutual opt-out with MLB in a statement released on Thursday night. “We are grateful for our longstanding relationship with Major League Baseball and proud of how ESPN’s coverage super-serves fans,” ESPN stated.
ESPN’s Future Outlook for MLB Coverage
The network also emphasized its commitment to fiscal responsibility while growing its audience across linear, digital, and social platforms. “As we have been throughout the process, we remain open to exploring new ways to serve MLB fans across our platforms beyond 2025,” ESPN added.
The Future of MLB Broadcasting
Fox continues as MLB’s main broadcast partner on linear TV. Industries insiders predict that Comcast (NBC) and Paramount (CBS) may vie for a spot as MLB’s new linear partner. Meanwhile, Amazon and Netflix are seen as potential additions to the streaming roster for 2028, joining Apple and Roku in offering a broader package of baseball content.
Your Thoughts on the MLB-ESPN Partnership
This development signals a new era in how fans will access MLB content. Who do you think will be the best fit for MLB in the coming years?
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