End of an era: MLB and ESPN part ways after 35 years

ESPN and Major League Baseball (MLB) are set to part ways as they end their decades-long broadcasting partnership after the 2025 season. This marks the end of a relationship that began in 1990, making it one of the longest-running TV deals in sports.

MLB unhappy with ESPN’s reduced coverage

In a statement, MLB expressed disappointment over ESPN going back to its baseball coverage. The league said that despite strong viewership and exclusive broadcasting rights to marquee events like the Home Run Derby, ESPN pushed for lower rights fees, which MLB deemed unacceptable.

“Given that MLB provides strong viewership, valuable demographics, and the exclusive right to cover unique events like the Home Run Derby, ESPN’s demand to reduce rights fees is simply unacceptable. As a result, we have mutually agreed to terminate our agreement,” the league said.

ESPN stands by its decisions

However, ESPN defended its commitment to baseball fans and emphasized its broader strategy for live sports coverage. “We are grateful for our longstanding relationship with Major League Baseball and proud of ESPN’s coverage super-serves fans,” ESPN said in a statement. “In making this decision, we applied the same discipline and fiscal responsibility that has built ESPN’s industry-leading live events portfolio as we continue to grow our audience across linear, digital, and social platforms.”

Despite MLB’s statement suggesting a mutual agreement, a source familiar with ESPN’s stance told CNN that the network chose to opt out of the contract. The source claimed ESPN had an opt-out clause and exercised it, contradicting MLB commissioner Rob Manfred’s assertion that the decision was mutual.

What’s next for MLB?

The move signals MLB’s confidence in securing a new media partner, potentially from streaming services or traditional cable networks. The current deal, worth $550 million per season, was set to run through 2028. It included the rights to 30 nationally televised games per season, with 25 of them being “Sunday Night Baseball” matchups, plus Opening Day and the Home Run Derby.

MLB has been experiencing a surge in popularity, with its 2024 season drawing the highest live attendance figures in seven years — over 71.3 million fans. Viewership of ESPN’s “Sunday Night Baseball” also increased, further proving the sport’s growing momentum.