ESPN Unveils MLB.TV Changes Under New Three-Year Agreement
Fans of Major League Baseball's out-of-market streaming package, MLB.TV, received crucial updates on Tuesday regarding ESPN's recent takeover. The sports network announced a series of adjustments to pricing, subscription options, and feature availability as part of its new three-year rights agreement with MLB.
Revised Pricing Structure for MLB.TV Subscriptions
ESPN has introduced a tiered pricing model for MLB.TV. Subscribers who already have an ESPN Unlimited plan will benefit from a slight discount, paying $134.99 for the upcoming season. This price will renew each subsequent season at the then-current rate. For those without an ESPN Unlimited plan, the cost remains unchanged from last season at $149.99, with the added perk of a free month of ESPN Unlimited included in the purchase.
Additionally, a monthly option is available for $29.99, which also comes with a free month of ESPN Unlimited for new subscribers. This flexibility aims to cater to varying viewer preferences and budgets.
Streaming Access and Platform Availability
At the start of the season, MLB.TV subscribers in the United States will continue to enjoy access to out-of-market games, MLB Big Inning, and MLB Network. These will be available on both ESPN and MLB digital platforms, ensuring seamless viewing across devices.
For those with TV plans from providers such as Spectrum, DirecTV, Fubo TV, Hulu Live TV, and Verizon Fios, an ESPN Unlimited subscription is included as part of their package. Cord-cutters and others can access all ESPN networks for $29.25 per month.
In-Market Streaming for Local Teams
Local in-market streaming products for 14 teams whose games are produced by MLB will be accessible via the MLB site and through individual team platforms. The teams currently included are:
- Arizona Diamondbacks
- Cincinnati Reds
- Cleveland Guardians
- Colorado Rockies
- Detroit Tigers
- Kansas City Royals
- Miami Marlins
- Milwaukee Brewers
- Minnesota Twins
- San Diego Padres
- St. Louis Cardinals
- Seattle Mariners
- Tampa Bay Rays
- Washington Nationals
Furthermore, the Athletics, Philadelphia Phillies, and San Francisco Giants also offer in-market streaming through MLB, despite their games being broadcast via NBC Sports Network.
Feature Updates and Broadcast Details
While popular features like multiview, integrated stats, key plays, and home/away feed selections will remain available, ESPN has confirmed that home and away radio feeds will not be offered this season. This change is part of the network's integration of MLB.TV into its platform.
ESPN's new agreement with MLB includes 30 exclusive games, primarily scheduled on weeknights and during the summer months. This marks the second league to have its out-of-market digital package available on ESPN's platform in the U.S., following the NHL's move in 2021.
The announcement underscores ESPN's expanding role in sports streaming and its commitment to enhancing the fan experience through strategic partnerships and innovative offerings.
