ESPN and MLB Part Ways After 35-Year Partnership

ESPN and Major League Baseball (MLB) have announced the termination of their national television agreement following the conclusion of the 2025 season, ending a partnership that began in 1990. The current seven-year contract, initiated in 2021 and valued at approximately $550 million annually, granted ESPN rights to broadcast 30 exclusive regular-season games, including "Sunday Night Baseball," the Home Run Derby, and the Wild Card Series.

The decision to end the agreement was influenced by ESPN's desire to reduce rights fees and MLB's dissatisfaction with the network's diminishing baseball coverage. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed concerns over ESPN's reduced investment, stating that the league would not accept a devaluation of their rights.

ESPN's relationship with MLB dates back to 1990, when it began broadcasting regular-season games. Over the years, the partnership evolved through various contracts, with significant increases in rights fees and coverage. The current contract, set to end after the 2025 season, was part of a broader trend of escalating rights fees in sports broadcasting.

The termination of the ESPN-MLB contract marks the end of a 35-year partnership, prompting MLB to explore new broadcasting partnerships for the 2026 season and beyond. Potential new partners include Fox, NBC, CBS, Amazon, and Netflix. ESPN remains interested in future collaborations, particularly in streaming local games, as MLB rethinks its distribution strategy amid the decline of the regional sports network model.

The shift in broadcasting rights reflects broader changes in media consumption, with streaming services gaining prominence. This transition may affect how fans access games, potentially leading to increased subscription costs or changes in viewing habits. Economically, MLB's pursuit of new partnerships aims to optimize short-term value and achieve greater national reach, moving away from a heavy reliance on regional sports networks.

As the 2025 season progresses, both ESPN and MLB will continue to fulfill their existing contractual obligations, including the broadcast of "Sunday Night Baseball," the Home Run Derby, and the Wild Card Series. Fans can expect further announcements regarding MLB's future broadcasting partners as the league navigates this significant transition in its media strategy.