Get ready for an exciting baseball season in 2026! MLB.TV is revolutionizing the way fans experience the game, and we're here to guide you through the changes.
The Future of Baseball Streaming: Unlocking New Possibilities
With an incredible 21 out of MLB's 30 clubs now offering in-market, blackout-free streaming, fans have more freedom than ever to watch their favorite teams. And the best part? ESPN has joined the game, acquiring the rights to MLB.TV, which means even more options for baseball enthusiasts.
But here's where it gets controversial...
The MLB App, a familiar streaming companion, will continue to be a go-to for MLB.TV and Club.TV subscribers, without any additional subscriptions needed. So, if you're an app loyalist, you're in luck!
In-Market Streaming: The Ultimate Flexibility
In-market streaming subscriptions for the 2026 season are now available for a whopping 20 teams, with a full list of 21 clubs ready to provide an uninterrupted streaming experience.
Here's the breakdown:
- ^ Indicates clubs with MLB-produced local games, offering free streaming of all Spring Training games for MLB.com account holders.
- * Indicates clubs with broadcasts distributed through regional sports network (RSN) deals.
Get this: these in-market streaming options deliver all local games to subscribers, no matter where they are in the club's home territory, eliminating local blackouts. Talk about a home run!
The MLB Deputy Commissioner's Take
Noah Garden, MLB's Deputy Commissioner for business and media, emphasizes the league's commitment to enhancing the fan experience.
"We're proud of our award-winning production and increased game reach, with improved production features and greater player access. And we're listening to our fans who want blackouts gone. MLB's in-market streaming option is our response to that feedback."
Subscription Prices: A Breakdown
For the 15 non-RSN teams, MLB.TV subscription prices remain unchanged from last year - $99.99 per season or $19.99 per month.
But here's a sweet deal: fans can bundle a club's local streaming service with an MLB.TV out-of-market subscription for just $199.99 per season or $39.99 per month, saving 20% off individual service pricing.
And for the six clubs distributed through RSN partnerships (Athletics, Orioles, Dodgers, Mets, Phillies, and Giants), prices and packages vary by market, so be sure to check the fine print.
The ESPN Factor: A New Media Rights Deal
With the new media rights deal, MLB.TV will be accessible through the ESPN App. But here's the catch: you don't need to have the ESPN App or purchase an ESPN Unlimited subscription to enjoy MLB.TV.
Let's break it down for different categories of fans:
- Existing MLB.TV Subscribers: Your subscriptions will renew automatically through your MLB.TV account, and you can access streaming content via the MLB App or ESPN App.
- Existing ESPN Unlimited Subscribers: MLB.TV will be available as an add-on, and you can grab a subscription for $134.99 per season (usually $149.99). You can stream MLB.TV through either the MLB or ESPN App.
- New MLB.TV Customers (without ESPN Unlimited): Subscribe directly through ESPN platforms, and you'll get ESPN Unlimited free for a month. After that, it's up to you whether to continue the subscription, but it won't affect your MLB.TV access.
International Viewers: MLB.TV Goes Global
MLB continues to offer MLB.TV internationally, with subscriptions available as of Tuesday. So, no matter where you are, you can catch the action.
What's Included in an MLB.TV Subscription?
An MLB.TV subscription is a baseball fan's dream, offering access to MLB Network, pre- and postgame coverage, Minor League Baseball games, and MLB Big Inning, a whiparound show with live look-ins and real-time highlights from all 30 clubs.
National MLB Media Partners: Exclusive Content
Select regular-season and postseason games exclusive to national MLB media partners will be available through their platforms, not through MLB.TV or Club.TV subscriptions. So, keep an eye out for those special broadcasts.
Local Distribution: A Note for 15 Teams
For the 15 teams whose games will be distributed by MLB, fans can still watch their local games in the clubs' home television territories on cable, satellite, and telecom service providers. Detailed information on local distribution will be announced closer to Opening Day.
Special Features for MLB-Produced Games
Fans of the 14 teams with MLB-produced games (marked with ^) can expect some extra perks, like live drones, wire cams, and umpire cams, usually reserved for national games.
So, there you have it, baseball fans! MLB.TV is taking streaming to the next level, and we can't wait to see how you engage with these changes. Are you excited for the 2026 season? What are your thoughts on these streaming options? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
