MLB Expands Broadcasting Control to Six More Teams
Major League Baseball (MLB) is set to expand its broadcasting control to six additional teams beginning in 2026. This inclusion features clubs such as the Milwaukee Brewers, Miami Marlins, Tampa Bay Rays, Kansas City Royals, St. Louis Cardinals, and Cincinnati Reds. These teams had previously severed ties with Main Street Sports, leaving only the Atlanta Braves, Detroit Tigers, and Los Angeles Angels to establish their broadcasting plans for the upcoming year.
Background on Broadcasting Changes
The shift in broadcasting control stems from ongoing challenges faced by regional sports networks (RSNs). The once-dominant model has struggled due to cord-cutting trends and the rise of streaming. Main Street Sports, formerly known as Diamond Sports Group and operating under the Bally Sports branding, filed for bankruptcy throughout 2023 and 2024. After emerging from bankruptcy, the company found itself in continued financial turmoil, missing payments to numerous teams, which was a key factor in the recent breakaway.
MLB’s Recent Broadcast Management
In recent years, MLB has taken charge of broadcasts for other teams that experienced difficulties with RSN contracts. Notable teams that were included in this arrangement for the 2025 season were the San Diego Padres, Arizona Diamondbacks, Colorado Rockies, Minnesota Twins, and Cleveland Guardians. Under MLB’s control, the broadcasting arrangements have remained consistent, ensuring the retention of most broadcasting personnel. This change has also eliminated local blackouts for fans.
- Streaming packages now available directly from MLB.
- Teams experienced expanded viewership, albeit with reduced financial guarantees.
Reports indicate that the new streaming model generates approximately 50% less revenue compared to previous RSN deals. This decline in earnings has affected teams’ spending capacity, which has had on-field consequences, as seen in player trades involving significant stars.
Future Broadcast Plans
In September, it was announced that ESPN would acquire local broadcasting rights for five of the teams under the MLB umbrella for a duration of three years. Additionally, the Seattle Mariners will transition to the MLB broadcasting model. With these updates, MLB is expected to manage broadcasts for a total of at least 13 teams in the upcoming season.
The potential for further expansion exists, especially as discussions for new broadcasting agreements will take place after many current deals expire in 2028. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has emphasized the importance of flexibility in negotiations, aiming to create substantial packages for interested companies.
Impact on Player Payrolls and Future Prospects
The financial uncertainty of the streaming model has raised concerns regarding player payrolls for teams transitioning to MLB’s control. It is anticipated that some organizations will feel pressure to manage their budgets wisely due to decreased revenue predictions. For example, the Cincinnati Reds had previously paused some player negotiations, such as those involving Eugenio Suárez, amid broadcasting uncertainties.
As the broadcasting landscape evolves, teams and fans can expect detailed updates regarding streaming services and pricing. The St. Louis Cardinals have already set their streaming costs at $19.99 per month or $99.99 for an entire season. More information is forthcoming for the Miami Marlins as they finalize arrangements for their broadcasts.
With an eye on the future, MLB is positioned to navigate these changes, ensuring it meets the interests of both fans and teams as the league continues to adapt to the dynamic media environment.
