ESPN, MLB to End 35-Year Broadcast Partnership After 2025 Season
ESPN and MLB will end their 35-year broadcast partnership at the close of the 2025 season, as ESPN transitions to a more digital and cost-efficient strategy while MLB prepares to seek new media partners.
Published on March 30, 2025
At the conclusion of the 2025 baseball season, ESPN and Major League Baseball will end their nearly 35-year broadcast relationship. Announced at the start of spring training and confirmed on February 20, 2025, the decision comes as ESPN shifts focus toward a more cost-efficient, digital-centric approach while scaling back its traditional baseball coverage.
MLB expressed disappointment with ESPN’s reduced coverage and is preparing to explore new national broadcast partnerships for the 2026 season. Industry observers note that, similar to recent trends seen in other major sports leagues, multiple rights deals may emerge as alternatives, with potential partners like Apple, Fox, and others positioned to step in as the landscape of sports media continues to evolve.