MLB and ESPN Split Accelerates TV's Streaming Shift

MLB and ESPN Split Reveals What's On Deck Amid TV's Streaming Shift 

Industry experts say both MLB and ESPN could see benefits from ending the relationship

The shift (to streaming) is on.

Last week, ESPN and Major League Baseball confirmed that they are set to part ways, ending a relationship that began back in 1990. Their current deal—which was set to pay the league $550 million per year for the likes of Sunday night MLB games, the Home Run Derby, and a wild-card postseason series, among other content—will now end after the 2025 season.

Both sides had a March 1 deadline to opt out of the contract, with ESPN citing “fiscal responsibility” in its decision to leave. Meanwhile, MLB didn’t want to reduce fees, especially at a time when ESPN is paying up for properties such as the National Football League, where it will pony up $2.7

Headshot of Bill Bradley

Bill Bradley

Bill Bradley is Adweek's deputy TV, Media and Sports editor.