ESPN Benches Local MLB Streaming Plan Until 2027

ESPN is delaying the launch of its in-market MLB game streams until at least 2027, a strategic move to potentially acquire more teams as the regional sports network model collapses. For now, fans of the six impacted teams will continue watching local games on MLB's own platforms.

• Patience at the plate: The delay alters a key piece of the new media rights deal finalized last November, which covers the six teams whose games MLB produces directly, including the San Diego Padres and Arizona Diamondbacks. While the rights belong to ESPN for the 2026 season, the games themselves will remain on MLB's platforms for one more year.

• Playing the long game: This strategic pause is a calculated response to the ongoing collapse of the regional sports network market. Main Street Sports Group, which holds broadcast rights for nine other MLB teams, is reportedly teetering, and by waiting, ESPN could launch its service with a much larger roster of teams.

• Still in the lineup: The deal's out-of-market component, however, remains on track. The popular MLB.TV package will still land on ESPN's platform in 2026 as originally planned.

The delay shows MLB is methodically dismantling the old regional sports model, positioning ESPN as the future hub for a larger, centralized package of local team broadcasts.