After a lengthy hiatus of over four months, Major League Baseball (MLB) and ESPN are reportedly rekindling their discussions regarding a media rights agreement. This comes on the heels of their high-profile split earlier this year, which was officially announced in February. The existing partnership is scheduled to conclude following the 2025 season, three years prior to its original expiration, though talks may lead to a reinstatement of their long-standing connection that dates back to 1990.
While it’s still uncertain if these preliminary discussions will culminate in a new deal, local broadcasting rights are part of the conversation, significantly as MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred aims to innovate baseball’s media landscape. These revived negotiations first came to light through reports by The Athletic and have gained momentum since initial rumors this spring were downplayed by the league.
Currently, ESPN is obligated to pay MLB $550 million annually for broadcasting rights, but ESPN has expressed a desire to reduce this cost. In response, MLB has raised concerns over ESPN’s perceived lack of coverage outside of live game broadcasts, which they have described as “minimal.”
Amid shifting dynamics, ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro has emphasized the importance of maintaining a baseball relationship in a potential new agreement, especially as ESPN adapts to changes in the media landscape with its upcoming direct-to-consumer service. He has also shown support for addressing the fallout from the declining traditional cable business, which has affected leagues including MLB.
On the other hand, MLB has been exploring opportunities with various networks such as NBCUniversal, Fox, and Apple regarding the rights potentially relinquished by ESPN. However, none of these alternatives have the deep-rooted relationship with MLB that ESPN has nurtured over the years.
A resolution could be imminent, with MLB aiming to finalize the rights situation before the upcoming All-Star Game in Atlanta on July 15. Manfred has previously expressed a preference for the familiarity of the existing deal, wishing for options that align with future rights alignment in 2028.
The history between MLB and ESPN has often been complicated, characterized by a mutual dependency tinged with tension, particularly as MLB has felt overshadowed by the NFL’s dominance in ESPN’s programming. Former MLB Executive Vice President Jonathan Mariner noted that while both parties have needed each other, that balance has often felt uneven, with ESPN favoring football. However, many still view a renewal of partnership as beneficial, with Mariner expressing hope for a reconciliation.
This evolving situation not only reflects the changing landscape of sports broadcasting but also highlights the significance of collaboration in navigating these transformations. The potential reunion between MLB and ESPN offers a promising outlook for maintaining baseball’s visibility in a media environment that continually shifts.