Netflix will stream a single game on the Opening Night of each baseball season, in addition to the Home Run Derby and one “special event game” annually. In 2026, this will include the “Field of Dreams” game, which is scheduled to take place on August 13th, featuring a matchup between the Minnesota Twins and the Philadelphia Phillies in Dyersville, Iowa.
This arrangement is part of a broader media deal involving three networks, replacing a previously exclusive agreement MLB had with ESPN. NBC will air the Sunday Night Baseball game, as well as coverage for the draft and additional games across its networks. The league has indicated that “some Sunday night games will stream on Peacock and simulcast on NBCSN” if there are overlaps with earlier negotiated media rights. Additionally, Peacock will host MLB’s Sunday Leadoff games, which kick off around noon, and these will be simulcast on the recently relaunched NBC Sports Network.
ESPN has secured a 30-game broadcast package that will be exclusive to its channels and the ESPN app each season. This package includes streaming for 150 out-of-market games, distributing one game per day through the app, and provides the capability to sell MLB Network and some in-market games via the ESPN platform.
This multi-network agreement highlights MLB’s expanding approach to broadcast its games. What impact might this have on viewership and fan engagement across different platforms?
Source: https://www.theverge.com/news/824513/mlb-netflix-nbc-peacock-espn