Inside ESPN’s Landmark Deal with MLB.TV: Key Details Revealed
ESPN has announced significant changes to its MLB.TV streaming service, impacting fans of Major League Baseball (MLB). The announcement came on February 10, 2026, detailing the pricing structure and viewing options for the upcoming MLB season.
MLB.TV Pricing Details
For subscribers already holding an ESPN Unlimited plan, MLB.TV will be available at a reduced rate of $134.99 for the current season. This price will renew annually based on current market rates. For those without an ESPN Unlimited subscription, MLB.TV remains at $149.99, the same as in previous seasons, and includes a complimentary month of the ESPN Unlimited service.
- MLB.TV for ESPN Unlimited subscribers: $134.99
- MLB.TV for non-subscribers: $149.99
- Monthly MLB.TV subscription: $29.99, with a free month of ESPN Unlimited for new subscribers
Streaming Access and Options
Starting with the new season, U.S. MLB.TV subscribers will have access to out-of-market games, MLB Big Inning, and MLB Network through both ESPN and MLB platforms. Various cable and streaming providers like Spectrum, DirecTV, Fubo TV, Hulu Live TV, and Verizon Fios incorporate ESPN Unlimited in their TV packages. Cord-cutters can opt for a $29.25 monthly fee to access all ESPN networks.
Local in-market streaming for teams producing their games will remain hosted on the MLB website and the respective teams’ platforms. Teams with in-market streaming available include:
- Arizona Diamondbacks
- Cincinnati Reds
- Cleveland Guardians
- Colorado Rockies
- Detroit Tigers
- Kansas City Royals
- Miami Marlins
- Milwaukee Brewers
- Minnesota Twins
- San Diego Padres
- St. Louis Cardinals
- Seattle Mariners
- Tampa Bay Rays
- Washington Nationals
Additionally, the Oakland Athletics, Philadelphia Phillies, and San Francisco Giants provide in-market streaming despite their games being aired through NBC Sports Network.
New Features and Limitations
Enhanced features such as multiview, integrated statistics, key play highlights, and various feed selections will continue to be available on MLB.TV. However, ESPN will not offer the home and away radio feeds this season. The rights to MLB.TV were obtained as part of ESPN’s new three-year partnership with MLB.
Exclusive Game Coverage
This agreement grants ESPN access to 30 exclusive games, mainly scheduled for weeknights during the summer months. This move marks the second time a digital out-of-market package is available through ESPN, following the NHL’s transition in 2021.
With these updates, MLB fans have new options to enjoy the season, reinforcing ESPN’s commitment to bringing baseball to a wider audience through various platforms.
