Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Shohei Ohtani threw a pitch at Dodger Stadium. Major League Baseball announced a new three-year media rights agreement with NBC, Netflix, and ESPN, starting in 2026. The deal includes ESPN’s acquisition of MLB.TV rights, NBC Sports taking over Sunday Night games, and Netflix hosting Home Run Derbies.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred stated the new agreements will expand the league’s reach to fans through ESPN, NBCUniversal, and Netflix. The deal foreshadows MLB’s plan to increase TV revenue in 2028. Despite a loss in revenue, MLB aims to grow media revenue by partnering with new streaming-exclusive platforms like Netflix.
The new deal includes ESPN’s new rights to sell and distribute MLB.TV, a 30-game midweek package, and in-market games for select MLB teams. NBC will broadcast MLB, NBA, and NFL games on Sundays, including the entire MLB Wild Card round. Netflix will showcase the Home Run Derby, Opening Night game, and the 2026 World Baseball Classic in Japan. NBCUniversal is the parent company of CNBC.
Read more at CNBC: MLB announces new media rights deals for NBC, ESPN and Netflix
