Apple TV+ reportedly ends its MLB coverage, as sources reveal the streamer will abandon its Friday Night Baseball package. Effective late August 2025, Apple exercised an early opt-out from its seven-year deal signed in March 2022, worth roughly $85 million annually and set to run through 2029. Still, Apple used a contract clause to withdraw sooner.
Consequently, NBCUniversal is poised to step in via its Peacock platform. It will likely acquire the Friday night slot, as well as exclusive Sunday games and a Wild Card round. Meanwhile, ESPN looks close to securing MLB.tv, while Netflix is reportedly bidding to stream the annual Home Run Derby.
As a result, the MLB coverage landscape may fragment. Fans who want full access may need multiple subscriptions, potentially chasing MLB picks and MLB odds across platforms. In addition, the way fans research and compare these will evolve.
Potential Candidates to Land MLB Streaming Rights
NBCUniversal / Peacock
NBCUniversal has emerged as the strongest contender to acquire a significant portion of the MLB package. Reports suggest that Peacock could land Friday night games, Sunday exclusives, and even a Wild Card playoff round, giving it a stronger sports lineup.
This move would complement NBC’s existing NFL and Premier League rights, positioning Peacock as a central hub for live sports streaming.
ESPN
ESPN, owned by Disney, is reportedly close to securing MLB.tv, the league’s out-of-market streaming service. Acquiring this package would not only bolster ESPN’s digital offerings but also expand its reach beyond traditional cable.
In addition, ESPN may seek weekday game rights, allowing it to maintain its long-standing reputation as the go-to destination for MLB coverage.
Netflix
Netflix has shown strong interest in event-driven sports content and could land the exclusive rights to the Home Run Derby. While it may not yet secure regular-season games, the platform could use baseball events to attract new subscribers and test live sports streaming.
This strategy aligns with Netflix’s recent push into sports documentaries and live spectacles, signaling a gradual but steady entry into the market.
Moreover, insiders mention the possibility of multiple platforms landing different parts of the rights. The league aims for three-year agreements (2026-2028), aligning with the expiration of other major contracts.
Implications for Fans
For fans, the shift in streaming rights brings major changes to how they watch and follow MLB games.
First, fragmentation may lead to confusion. Fans who research MLB picks or compare MLB odds, especially across fantasy or online sportsbooks, must now navigate several streaming services.
Transitioning between platforms could disrupt their MLB experience. Apple’s audio-plus-local-radio feature, once praised, now disappears.
Second, the streaming market may grow even more competitive. Services such as Amazon Prime or Roku might attempt to join future MLB streaming negotiations.
Finally, MLB’s broader media rights strategy could face scrutiny from regulators or lawmakers. Earlier in 2025, congressional hearings criticized fragmentation and rising costs for fans. That reflects growing tension over sports consumption in the streaming era.
Ultimately, Major League Baseball’s decision will redefine its digital footprint. With multiple platforms seeking a piece of the action, all eyes remain on which network will secure the streaming rights and deliver America’s pastime to an eager audience.