{{Short description|Television broadcasting division}} {{Infobox television channel | name = MLB Local Media | logo = | type = Regional sports syndicate | owner = Major League Baseball | key_people = Billy Chambers (EVP of local media) }}
'''MLB Local Media''' is a division of Major League Baseball that produces and distributes regional television broadcasts. Established prior to the 2023 season, and leveraging resources from MLB Network, the division currently holds the local media rights to 14 of MLB's 30 teams.
The division was established in 2023 amid uncertainties in the regional sports network market, including the bankruptcy of Bally Sports (now FanDuel Sports Network) owner Diamond Sports Group (now Main Street Sports Group), and Warner Bros. Discovery's winddown of the AT&T SportsNet networks, with the intended capability of taking over a team's regional media rights on short notice if their respective broadcaster is no longer able to carry their games. The division made its on-air debut on May 31, 2023, when it took over broadcast rights to the San Diego Padres from Bally Sports San Diego after it missed a rights payment. In July 2023, MLB also took over the rights to the Arizona Diamondbacks from Bally Sports Arizona under similar circumstances.
In 2024, MLB Local Media added the Colorado Rockies, and started producing ''MLB Sunday Leadoff'' with its move to The Roku Channel. It acquired the rights to the Cleveland Guardians, Minnesota Twins, and Seattle Mariners in 2025, albeit with the Mariners' telecasts continuing to air on Root Sports Northwest until its closure after the end of the season. MLB Local Media would add eight additional teams for 2026, including the Washington Nationals (following the resolution of its long-standing rights disputes with the Baltimore Orioles' MASN), and—amid continued financial issues at Main Street Sports Group—seven teams who were formerly televised by FanDuel Sports Network. The unit also reached an agreement to provide production and distribution support to the National Hockey League's Detroit Red Wings (which share common ownership with the Detroit Tigers).
MLB Local Media regional broadcasts are distributed via ''ad-hoc'' agreements with television providers in each team's home market, as well as over-the-top (OTT) subscription packages hosted by MLB.tv (branded under names such as '''Padres.tv''' and '''DBacks.tv'''), available separately from MLB.tv's out-of-market service. Beginning in the 2025 season, MLB Local Media also began to syndicate packages of broadcasts to terrestrial television stations in the teams' local markets.
==History== ===Background=== On February 24, 2023, Warner Bros. Discovery, owners of the AT&T SportsNet regional sports networks, announced that it would leave the RSN business. At the time, AT&T SportsNet held the rights to three MLB teams: the Pittsburgh Pirates, Colorado Rockies and Houston Astros. The company sent messages to those teams, notifying them they had until March 31 to reach an agreement to take their rights back or acquire the networks. If no deal was made before the deadline, Warner Bros. Discovery stated that the channels would go into Chapter 7 bankruptcy liquidation. Root Sports Northwest, a joint venture between Warner Bros. Discovery and the Seattle Mariners, was not affected by the announcement.<ref name="sbj">{{Cite web |title=Warner Bros. Discovery tells teams it is leaving RSN business |url=https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Daily/Closing-Bell/2023/02/24/rsn-breaking-news.aspx |access-date=2023-02-25 |website=Sports Business Journal |language=en}}</ref><ref name="HollywoodReporter">{{Cite web |last=Weprin |first=Alex |date=2023-02-24 |title=Warner Bros. Discovery Seeks to Exit Regional Sports Networks Business |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/warner-bros-discovery-seeks-exit-rsn-business-att-sportsnet-1235333847/ |access-date=2023-02-25 |website=The Hollywood Reporter |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-02-24 |title=ROOT Sports Northwest says it's not impacted by Warner Bros. Discovery exiting local sports business |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/root-sports-northwest-says-its-not-impacted-by-warner-bros-discovery-exiting-local-sports-business/ |access-date=2023-03-20 |website=The Seattle Times |language=en-US}}</ref> Despite the March deadline, Major League Baseball negotiated a deal with Warner Bros. Discovery to keep the networks operational through the 2023 Major League Baseball season.<ref>{{cite web|last=Lucia| first=Joe|url=https://awfulannouncing.com/mlb/warner-bros-discovery-mlb-nearing-deal-to-keep-rsns-running-through-2023-season.html|title=Warner Bros. Discovery, MLB nearing deal to keep RSNs running through 2023 season|website=Awful Announcing|date=April 10, 2023|accessdate=April 18, 2023}}</ref> The Houston and Pittsburgh networks would be sold to joint ventures of their respective teams,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Inside the Pirates' TV rights decision and what it means for the future |url=https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/pirates/2023/12/13/pirates-sportsnet-pittsburgh-penguins-joint-owners-regional-sports-network/stories/202312120089 |access-date=2023-12-16 |website=Pittsburgh Post-Gazette |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=September 15, 2023 |title=New regional TV home of Rockets likely to be called 'Space City Home Network' |url=https://www.khou.com/article/syndication/ott/sports-ott/space-city-home-network-houston-astros-rockets/285-2673b3e9-84e0-462b-9dad-488ad1eff321 |access-date=2023-09-15 |website=khou.com |language=en-US}}</ref> while WBD would later sell its stake in Root Sports to the Mariners.<ref name="seattletimes-2023-12-15">{{Cite web |last=Divish |first=Ryan |last2=Jude |first2=Adam |name-list-style=and |date=December 15, 2023 |title=Mariners to take full control of ROOT Sports NW, clouding team's financial outlook |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/mariners-to-take-full-control-of-root-sports-nw-clouding-teams-financial-outlook/ |access-date=December 16, 2023 |website=The Seattle Times |language=en-US}}</ref>
On March 14, 2023, Diamond Sports Group, owners of the Bally Sports regional sports networks, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.<ref>{{cite press release|title=Diamond Sports Group Commences Voluntary Chapter 11 Proceedings to Strengthen Balance Sheet|url=https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230314006050/en/Diamond-Sports-Group-Commences-Voluntary-Chapter-11-Proceedings-to-Strengthen-Balance-Sheet |access-date=March 14, 2023 |work=Business Wire |date=March 14, 2023}}</ref> The filing came 30 days after the company failed to make a $140M interest payment.<ref>{{cite news |last=Ourand|first=John|title=Diamond Sports Group not making $140M interest payment|url=https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Daily/Issues/2023/02/15/Media/diamond-sports-group.aspx |access-date=February 15, 2023 |work=Sports Business Journal|publisher=Leaders Group |date=February 15, 2023}}</ref> At the time, Diamond Sports held the rights to 14 MLB teams: the Arizona Diamondbacks, Atlanta Braves, Cincinnati Reds, Cleveland Guardians, Detroit Tigers, Kansas City Royals, Miami Marlins, Milwaukee Brewers, Minnesota Twins, San Diego Padres, St. Louis Cardinals, Tampa Bay Rays and Texas Rangers.
===Launch=== In January 2023, MLB hired Billy Chambers—a former executive of Bally Sports' predecessor Fox Sports Networks—as its executive vice president of local media; Commissioner of Baseball Rob Manfred stated that Chambers would "play an integral role in how we navigate the rapidly evolving local media landscape in the future".<ref>{{Cite web |date=January 17, 2023 |title=MLB Hires Billy Chambers as Executive Vice President, Local Media; Kenny Gersh Promoted to Executive Vice President, Media and Business Development |url=https://www.sportsvideo.org/2023/01/17/mlb-hires-billy-chambers-as-executive-vice-president-local-media-kenny-gersh-promoted-to-executive-vice-president-media-and-business-development/ |access-date=June 15, 2023 |work=Sports Video Group}}</ref> In March 2023, MLB Local Media was formally established, with the hiring of former SportsNet Pittsburgh executive Doug Johnson, and former Bally Sports executives Greg Pennell and Kendall Burgess; all three would report to Chambers. It was anticipated that the group could take over broadcasts of teams under AT&T SportsNet or Bally Sports on short notice if they are unable to continue their relationships with the teams;<ref>{{Cite web|last=Ourand|first=John|title=MLB establishes Local Media Department|url=https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Daily/Morning-Buzz/2023/03/01/mlb-local-media-department-broadcast-rights.aspx|website=Sports Business Journal|date=March 1, 2023|access-date=October 8, 2024}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=March 1, 2023 |title=MLB sets up local media group, could broadcast 17 teams |url=https://apnews.com/article/mlb-tv-broadcast-bally-att-sportsnet-cefb2e16029f94ee4869433c20425a51 |access-date=October 8, 2024 |publisher=Associated Press}}</ref> MLB Local Media had been working with MLB Network staff to prepare for such a scenario, including adapting an existing MLB Network graphics package so that it could be readily customized for individual teams.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Dachman |first=Jason |date=June 14, 2023 |title=Inside MLB Local Media's Launch of San Diego Padres Productions and What It Means for the Future |url=https://www.sportsvideo.org/2023/06/14/inside-mlb-local-medias-launch-of-san-diego-padres-productions-and-what-it-means-for-the-future/ |access-date=June 15, 2023 |work=Sports Video Group}}</ref>
In May 2023, Diamond Sports was on the verge of missing a second straight rights payment to the San Diego Padres, with a grace period expiring on the 31st; the rights to the team would revert to Major League Baseball on this date if the deadline were missed. Chambers and the MLB Local Media team were on standby for the Padres' series at the Miami Marlins, and began preparing its production on May 30, with only 24 hours' notice.<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Weprin |first=Alex |date=June 15, 2023 |title=How MLB Took Over a Regional Sports Network in 24 Hours |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/how-mlb-took-over-padres-bally-sports-rsn-in-24-hours-1235515509/ |access-date=June 17, 2023 |work=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> The new broadcasting arrangements would involve ''ad-hoc'' agreements between MLB and individual television providers in the San Diego Padres' market, as well as an over-the-top, in-market subscription package hosted on the MLB.tv platform known as Padres.tv. The service is a separate subscription from MLB.tv's out-of-market service.<ref>{{cite news |last=Gonzalez |first=Alden |date=May 30, 2023 |title=Diamond Sports Group fails to pay Padres, loses broadcast rights |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/37762861/diamond-sports-group-fails-pay-padres-loses-broadcast-rights |access-date=May 30, 2023 |work=ESPN}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Dachman |first=Jason |date=May 31, 2023 |title=MLB To Produce, Distribute All San Diego Padres Games Starting Tonight Following Diamond’s Missed Rights-Fee Payment |url=https://www.sportsvideo.org/2023/05/31/mlb-to-produce-distribute-all-san-diego-padres-games-starting-tonight-following-diamonds-missed-rights-fee-payment/ |access-date=October 8, 2024 |work=Sports Video Group}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Sanders |first1=Jeff |date=May 30, 2023 |title=Here’s where you can watch the Padres starting on Wednesday |url=https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/padres/story/2023-05-30/where-to-watch-the-padres-starting-wednesday |access-date=May 31, 2023 |work=San Diego Union-Tribune}}</ref>
The MLB-produced telecasts inherited the Padres' existing broadcast team and other team-contracted staff. Once the team returned to San Diego, MLB Local Media inherited the mobile production units and freelance employees that had been used by Diamond. MLB Local Media aimed for the broadcasts' technological aspects to be at parity with those of the previous Bally productions, while also increasing use of new technology such as shallow depth-of-field cameras. The inaugural broadcast featured a special introduction narrated by sportscaster and MLB Network contributor Bob Costas.<ref name=":0" />
On June 22, 2023, Diamond announced its intention to reject its contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks on June 30, 2023.<ref>{{cite news |last=Frankel|first=Daniel|title=Bankrupt Diamond Moves To Cut the MLB's Diamondbacks Loose From Bally Sports Arizona|url=https://www.nexttv.com/news/bankrupt-diamond-moves-to-cut-the-mlbs-diamondbacks-loose-from-bally-sports-arizona|access-date=June 22, 2023 |work=Next TV|date=June 22, 2023}}</ref> Diamond and the Arizona Diamondbacks later released a joint statement pushing back the hearing and agreeing to continue Diamond's broadcast of Diamondbacks' games. The contract was officially rejected on July 18. As with the Padres, MLB Local Media took over production.<ref>{{cite news |last=Mackie|first=Theo|title=Diamondbacks games no longer to be carried on Bally Sports; MLB moving them to new outlets|url=https://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/mlb/diamondbacks/2023/07/18/arizona-diamondbacks-tv-games-off-bally-sports-mlb-taking-over/70425570007/|access-date=July 18, 2023 |work=AzCentral|date=July 18, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Dachman|first=Jason|title=MLB Officially Takes Over Production, Distribution of D-backs Games After DSG Walks Away From Rights Deal|url=https://www.sportsvideo.org/2023/07/18/mlb-officially-takes-over-production-distribution-of-d-backs-games-after-judge-nixes-dsg-rights-deal/|access-date=October 8, 2024 |work=Sports Video Group|date=July 18, 2023}}</ref> Over the season, MLB Local Media began to deploy additional cameras, including gimbal cameras, wirecams, and umpire cams, and also began to focus on increasing access to players in-game via microphones.<ref name=":2">{{cite news |last=Dachman |first=Jason |date=April 2, 2024 |title=MLB Local Media Hits Its Stride in Year 2 With Diamondbacks, Padres, Rockies Broadcasts |url=https://www.sportsvideo.org/2024/04/02/mlb-local-media-hits-its-stride-in-year-two-with-diamondbacks-padres-and-rockies-broadcasts/ |access-date=October 8, 2024 |work=Sports Video Group}}</ref>
===2024 expansion===
For the 2024 season, MLB Local Media announced they would also produce and distribute games for the Colorado Rockies, who formerly aired games on the now-defunct AT&T SportsNet Rocky Mountain.<ref>{{cite news |last=Frankel|first=Daneil|title=MLB Launches Local DTC Streaming Option for the Colorado Rockies|url=https://www.nexttv.com/news/mlb-launches-local-dtc-streaming-option-for-the-colorado-rockies|access-date=October 8, 2024 |work=NextTV|date=February 15, 2024}}</ref> In addition, the broadcasts began to receive access to programming such as Minor League Baseball games and the ''MLB Big Inning'' whiparound show in the event of weather delays. The three teams received updates to their graphics to add additional team-specific elements, and move the score bug to the bottom-right of the screen following feedback from directors.<ref name=":2" /> In May 2024, MLB Local Media also began to oversee production of the ''MLB Sunday Leadoff'' package with its move to The Roku Channel.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dachman |first=Jason |date=2024-10-01 |title=SVG All-Stars: Kendall Burgess, as VP, Local Media Technical Operations, Major League Baseball |url=https://www.sportsvideo.org/2024/10/01/svg-all-stars-kendall-burgess-as-vp-local-media-technical-operations-major-league-baseball/ |access-date=2024-10-24 |website=Sports Video Group |language=en}}</ref>
===2025 expansion===
MLB Local Media began producing and distributing telecasts for the Cleveland Guardians and Minnesota Twins in the 2025 season.<ref>{{Cite web |date=October 8, 2024 |title=MLB to produce, distribute local games for Guardians, Brewers and Twins in 2025 |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/mlb-to-produce-local-guardians-brewers-twins-games-2025 |access-date=October 8, 2024 |work=MLB.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Crupi |first=Anthony |date=2024-10-08 |title=Guardians, Brewers, Twins Head to MLB Media as RSN Era Ends |url=https://www.sportico.com/business/media/2024/guardians-brewers-twins-rsn-era-mlb-media-shift-1234800346/ |access-date=2024-10-09 |website=Sportico.com |language=en-US}}</ref> The department also began production of Seattle Mariners games, although the telecasts continued to be broadcast on Root Sports Northwest.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Drellich |first=Evan |date=2024-11-22 |title=MLB plans new national TV packages for 2028; changes to revenue sharing, CBA crucial |url=https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5933299/2024/11/19/mlb-plans-new-national-tv-packages-for-2028-changes-to-revenue-sharing-cba-crucial/ |access-date=2025-03-15 |work=The Athletic |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}</ref>
Two teams announced, then backed out of, agreements to move to MLB Local Media in 2025. The Milwaukee Brewers had announced a move to MLB Local Media in October 2024, but on December 31, 2024, the Brewers announced that they had renegotiated their contract and would remain on FanDuel Sports Network Wisconsin for the 2025 season.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rosiak |first=Todd |title=Brewers pivot, strike deal with FanDuel Sports Network for 2025 local TV broadcasts |url=https://www.jsonline.com/story/sports/mlb/brewers/2024/12/31/brewers-pivot-for-2025-move-tv-broadcasts-to-fanduel-sports-network/77355029007/ |access-date=2025-01-03 |website=Journal Sentinel |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=McCalvy |first=Adam |date=December 31, 2024 |title=Brewers reach deal to remain with Diamond for TV broadcasts |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/brewers-fanduel-announce-telecast-rights-agreement-for-2025 |access-date=December 31, 2024 |work=MLB.com}}</ref> The Cincinnati Reds mutually agreed to end its agreement with Diamond and FanDuel Sports Network Ohio in November 2024,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-11-14 |title=MLB to take over Reds broadcasts in 2025 |url=https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2024/11/14/cincinnati-reds-mlb-broadcasts |access-date=2024-11-15 |website=Sports Business Journal |language=en}}</ref> but on January 13, 2025, the team announced that they had renegotiated to remain FanDuel Sports Network in the 2025 season.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Reds reach deal to stay with Main Street Sports for TV broadcasts |url=https://www.mlb.com/reds/news/reds-fanduel-announce-telecast-rights-agreement-for-2025 |access-date=2025-01-13 |website=MLB.com |language=en}}</ref>
On March 26, 2025, the Diamondbacks, Padres, and Rockies announced that they would simulcast a package of games on Tegna stations in each team's home market (KPNX, KFMB and its DT2 subchannel, and the KUSA/KTVD duopoly respectively);<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |title=Diamondbacks partner with TEGNA's 12News to broadcast 10 over-the-air games during 2025 season |url=https://www.mlb.com/dbacks/press-release/press-release-diamondbacks-partner-with-tegna-s-12news-to-broadcast-10-over-the-air-games-during-2025-season?t=dbacks-press-releases |access-date=2025-03-27 |website=MLB.com |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":4">{{Cite web |date=2025-03-26 |title=CBS 8 and CW San Diego to broadcast 10 Padres games in 2025 |url=https://www.cbs8.com/article/sports/mlb/padres/cbs-8-and-cw-san-diego-broadcast-padres-games-2025/509-ffaa3f54-ce7c-4b81-9bb4-ca3362865ec6 |access-date=2025-03-27 |website=cbs8.com |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name=":5">{{Cite web |last=Kirk |first=Alexander |date=March 26, 2025 |title=Colorado Rockies games are coming to 9NEWS |url=https://www.9news.com/article/sports/mlb/colorado-rockies/watch-colorado-rockies-games-9news-ktvd/73-ddbcf589-9f61-443e-9ebc-4edb92f1fd3f |website=KUSA}}</ref> the Twins would later announce a similar simulcast deal with Minneapolis-St. Paul Fox station KMSP-TV and Gray Media stations in the Twins' outer markets, with the Guardians following with Tegna's WKYC in Cleveland.<ref name=":6">{{Cite web |title=Minnesota Twins, FOX 9 and Gray Media announce 10-game, free over-the-air television package |url=https://www.mlb.com/twins/press-release/press-release-minnesota-twins-fox-9-and-gray-media-announce-10-game-free-over-the-air-television-package?msockid=066781d47ea86cfa3ab993447f2c6d6a |access-date=2025-04-02 |website=MLB.com |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":7" /> Ahead of the 2025 season, MLB announced that Progressive Insurance would serve as presenting sponsor for Diamondbacks and Twins broadcasts.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |title=Minnesota Twins and Progressive Insurance reach multi-year naming rights agreement for Twins.TV presented by Progressive |url=https://www.mlb.com/press-release/press-release-minnesota-twins-and-progressive-insurance-reach-multi-year-naming-rights-agreement-for-twins-tv-presented-by-progressive |access-date=2025-03-28 |website=MLB.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Arizona Diamondbacks announce Progressive Insurance as presenting sponsor of Diamondbacks Baseball Network |url=https://www.mlb.com/press-release/press-release-arizona-diamondbacks-announce-progressive-insurance-as-presenting-sponsor-of-diamondbacks-baseball-network |access-date=2025-03-28 |website=MLB.com |language=en}}</ref>
===2026 expansion===
In September 2025, the Mariners announced that Root Sports Northwest would close following the conclusion of the 2025 season, and that MLB Local Media would take over distribution of its regional broadcasts beginning in 2026.<ref>{{Cite web |date=September 26, 2025|last=Divish|first=Ryan|title=Mariners are shuttering ROOT Sports network after regular season|url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/mariners-are-shuttering-root-sports-network-after-regular-season/ |access-date=September 26, 2025|website=Seattle Times|language=en-US}}</ref> In November of that year, NBC Sports announced that they would take over ''MLB Sunday Leadoff'' for the following season, relieving MLB Local Media of production duties for the package.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-11-19 |title=MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL RETURNS TO NBC AND PEACOCK IN 2026 WITH THREE-YEAR MEDIA RIGHTS PARTNERSHIP FEATURING EXTENSIVE EXCLUSIVITY |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/pressbox/press-releases/major-league-baseball-returns-to-nbc-and-peacock-in-2026-with-three-year-media-rights-partnership-featuring-extensive-exclusivity |access-date=2026-05-31 |website=NBC Sports |language=en-US}}</ref>
On January 14, 2026, it was announced that the Washington Nationals had signed with MLB Local Media, after having previously settled a long-standing rights dispute with the Baltimore Orioles and MASN.<ref>{{cite news |last=Hansen |first=Drew |date=January 14, 2026 |title=Nationals leave MASN, join MLB TV for local broadcasting starting this season |url=https://www.bizjournals.com/washington/news/2026/01/14/nationals-masn-orioles-mlbtv.html |accessdate=January 14, 2026 |work=Washington Business Journal}}</ref>
On January 8, 2026, it was reported that Main Street Sports Group's nine remaining MLB contracts had been terminated due to missed payments, amid financial uncertainties and an effort to sell the company.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gonzalez |first=Alden |date=2026-01-08 |title=Sources: 9 MLB teams end deals with Main Street Sports Group |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/47552639/sources-9-mlb-teams-end-deals-main-street-sports-group |access-date=2026-02-04 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}</ref> The Milwaukee Brewers, St. Louis Cardinals, Miami Marlins, Tampa Bay Rays, Cincinnati Reds, and Kansas City Royals announced on February 2 that they would move to MLB Local Media for the 2026 season.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Drellich |first1=Evan |last2=Woo |first2=Katie |date=February 2, 2026 |title=St. Louis Cardinals leave FanDuel SN for MLB’s broadcast group, others to follow |url=https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7010724/2026/02/02/cardinals-mlb-broadcast-fanduel-sports-network/ |access-date=February 2, 2026 |work=The Athletic}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Friend |first=Tom |date=February 2, 2026 |title=All nine MLB teams officially leaving Main Street; NBA and NHL in holding pattern |url=https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2026/02/02/sources-all-nine-mlb-teams-officially-leaving-main-street-nba-and-nhl-in-holding-pattern/ |access-date=February 2, 2026 |work=Sports Business Journal}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Gonzalez |first=Alden |date=2026-02-02 |title=Sources: At least 6 teams to leave Main Street Sports, join MLB |url=https://www.espn.co.uk/mlb/story/_/id/47809528/sources-least-5-teams-leave-main-street-sports-join-mlb |access-date=2026-02-02 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Rays games will be produced, distributed by MLB in 2026 |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/rays-games-mlb-distribution-2026 |access-date=2026-02-03 |website=MLB.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Reds games will be produced, distributed by MLB in 2026 |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/reds-games-mlb-distribution-2026 |access-date=2026-02-03 |website=MLB.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=MLB to produce and distribute local games for Royals in 2026 |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/royals-games-to-be-distributed-by-mlb-in-2026 |access-date=2026-02-03 |website=MLB.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Brewers games will be produced, distributed by MLB in 2026 |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/brewers-games-to-be-distributed-by-mlb-in-2026 |access-date=2026-02-08 |website=MLB.com |language=en}}</ref>
The Detroit Tigers later announced a move from FanDuel Sports Network Detroit to MLB Local Media.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Friend|first=Tom|title=Tigers, Red Wings broadcasts heading to MLB Media in rare crossover partnership |url=https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2026/02/09/tigers-red-wings-broadcasts-heading-to-mlb-media-in-rare-crossover-partnership/ |access-date=February 9, 2026|date=February 9, 2026 |website=Sports Business Journal|language=en}}</ref> As part of the agreement, MLB Local Media agreed to also provide production and distribution support for the NHL's Detroit Red Wings, which, like the Tigers, are owned by Ilitch Sports + Entertainment.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Bultman |first1=Max |title=Red Wings, Tigers partnering with MLB for post-FanDuel TV, streaming broadcasts |url=https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7028036/2026/02/09/red-wings-tigers-tv-future-mlb-partnership/ |access-date=16 February 2026 |work=The New York Times |date=9 February 2026}}</ref> On March 2, Ilitch announced that the two teams would share a branded channel known as Detroit SportsNet, becoming the first MLB Local Media operation to be a part-time RSN with multiple teams.<ref>{{Cite web |last=James |first=Evan Petzold and Helene St |title=Detroit Tigers, Red Wings TV update: Detroit SportsNet is new home |url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/mlb/tigers/2026/03/02/detroit-sportsnet-tigers-red-wings-ilitch-sports-entertainment/88899652007/ |access-date=2026-03-02 |website=Detroit Free Press |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Mazzeo |first=Mike |date=2026-03-02 |title=Ilitch launches Detroit SportsNet for Tigers, Red Wings local broadcasts |url=https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2026/03/02/ilitch-launches-detroit-sportsnet-for-tigers-red-wings-local-broadcasts/ |access-date=2026-03-02 |website=Sports Business Journal |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Neumann|first=Sam|date=March 3, 2026|title=Ilitch Sports + Entertainment launches Detroit SportsNet for Tigers, Red Wings local broadcasts|url=https://awfulannouncing.com/local-networks/ilitch-detroit-sportsnet-tigers-red-wings.html|access-date=March 3, 2026|website=Awful Announcing|archive-date=March 6, 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260306230810/https://awfulannouncing.com/local-networks/ilitch-detroit-sportsnet-tigers-red-wings.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
== Current regional broadcast rights == MLB Local Media's broadcasts are distributed primarily via a "direct-to-distributor" model, in which it negotiates directly with television providers in the teams' local markets to carry the games. The broadcasts are carried by part-time channels on each provider, such as an event channel or similar; on Cox Cable for example, Padres games were assigned to the channel space of YurView California (which coincidentally, as the former 4SD, was the Padres' regional broadcaster prior to their move to Fox Sports Networks/Bally Sports) <ref>{{cite news |last1=Gonzalez|first1=Alden|title=Diamond Sports Group fails to pay Padres, loses broadcast rights|url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/37762861/diamond-sports-group-fails-pay-padres-loses-broadcast-rights|access-date=May 30, 2023|work=ESPN|date=May 30, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Ourand|first1=John|title=SBJ Unpacks: Padres' deal with Bally Sports ends tonight|url=https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/SB-Blogs/SBJ-Unpacks/2023/05/30.aspx|access-date=May 30, 2023|work=Sports Business Journal|date=May 30, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Sanders|first1=Jeff|title=Here’s where you can watch the Padres starting on Wednesday|url=https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/padres/story/2023-05-30/where-to-watch-the-padres-starting-wednesday|access-date=May 31, 2023|work=San Diego Union-Tribune|date=May 30, 2023}}</ref>
Each team under MLB Local Media also offers an in-market direct-to-consumer streaming package. These services are hosted by the MLB.tv platform and separate from its out-of-market service, but users can optionally subscribe to both services in a bundle.<ref name=":13">{{Cite web |last=Drellich|first=Evan|date=February 18, 2025|title=Blackout buster? SNY to stream Mets games as MLB reaches 22 teams available without TV bundle|url=https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6143098/2025/02/18/mets-sny-streaming-blackout/|access-date=February 18, 2025|website=The Athletic|language=en-US}}</ref> Over subsequent seasons, MLB.tv partnered with other teams and third-party regional broadcasters to offer in-market streaming services on MLB.tv as well, as part of a goal to have as many of the league's teams available on the service as possible.<ref name=":14">{{Cite web |last=Drellich|first=Evan|date=February 18, 2025|title=Blackout buster? SNY to stream Mets games as MLB reaches 22 teams available without TV bundle|url=https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6143098/2025/02/18/mets-sny-streaming-blackout/|access-date=February 18, 2025|website=The Athletic|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Foster|first=Jason|date=March 17, 2025|title=MLB, Spectrum SportsNet LA partner to launch SNLA+|url=https://www.mlb.com/news/mlb-partners-with-spectrum-sportsnet-la-for-dodgers-games|access-date=March 18, 2025|website=Major League Baseball|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=March 19, 2025|title=MLB, NBC Sports team to stream A's, Giants, Phils games direct to consumers|url=https://www.mlb.com/news/mlb-nbc-sports-regional-networks-to-stream-athletics-giants-phillies|access-date=March 19, 2025|website=Major League Baseball|language=en-US}}</ref><ref name=":15" />
MLB Local Media operates under a revenue sharing approach rather than a traditional rights fee, with the unit handling production (using team-employed contract workers and commentators, where applicable),<ref name=":0" /> advertising sales, and distribution/carriage negotiations. Revenue from the broadcasts are distributed to participating teams, with MLB taking a cut to cover production costs. Teams that moved to MLB Local Media have generally seen a reduction in television revenue in comparison to their previous contracts with RSNs, with the St. Louis Cardinals having been projected to lose $20 million in revenue under MLB Local Media in comparison to the $60 million they previously had with Main Street Sports Group in 2025 (which itself had been cut by 25% as part of a renegotiation with the company).<ref name=":15">{{Cite web |last=Mazzeo |first=Mike |date=2026-02-13 |title=MLB’s media path to 2028 features centralizing today and consolidating tomorrow |url=https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2026/02/13/mlbs-media-path-to-2028-features-centralizing-today-and-consolidating-tomorrow/ |access-date=2026-03-01 |website=Sports Business Journal |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Sawchik |first1=Travis |date=27 January 2026 |title=Breaking down team payroll disparity in MLB |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/mlb-payroll-disparity |access-date=4 February 2026 |work=MLB.com |language=en}}</ref> {| class="wikitable sortable" |+ !Team !Distributor/Service ! class="unsortable" | Over-the-air affiliates (limited games only) |- |Arizona Diamondbacks (2023–present) |''DBacks.tv presented by Progressive''<ref>{{Cite web |title=Back for 2025 -- DBACKS.TV -- stream games in the D-backs territory |url=https://www.mlb.com/dbacks/news/dbacks-tv-returns-for-2025 |access-date=2025-04-29 |website=MLB.com |at=Promotional image within article |language=en}}</ref> | * KPNX (Phoenix)<ref name=":3" /> * KMSB (Tucson) * KOB (Albuquerque)<ref>{{Cite web |last=Begay |first=Mesha |date=2025-04-25 |title=How to watch Arizona Diamondbacks games for free |url=https://www.kob.com/new-mexico/how-to-watch-arizona-diamondbacks-game/ |access-date=2025-04-26 |website=KOB.com |language=en-US}}</ref> * KSL (Salt Lake City)<ref name=":8">{{Cite web |last=Preece |first=Brian |date=2025-04-25 |title=KSL To Air 20 Rockies, D-Backs Games In 2025 |url=https://kslsports.com/mlb/mlb-on-ksl/546488 |access-date=2025-04-26 |website=KSL Sports |language=en-us}}</ref> |- |San Diego Padres (2023–present) |''Padres.tv presented by UC San Diego Health''<ref>{{Cite web |title=New low price for PADRES.TV -- stream games in Padres territory |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/padres-tv-returns-for-2025 |access-date=2025-06-18 |website=MLB.com |at=Promotional image within article. |language=en}}</ref> | * KFMB (San Diego)<ref name=":4" /> * KESQ/KPSP-CD/KCWQ-LD (Palm Springs)<ref>{{Cite web |last=Reyes |first=Jesus |date=2025-04-23 |title=KESQ group of stations to broadcast 10 San Diego Padres games |url=https://kesq.com/news/2025/04/23/kesq-group-of-stations-to-broadcast-10-san-diego-padres-games/ |access-date=2025-04-26 |website=KESQ |language=en-US}}</ref> |- |Colorado Rockies (2024–present) |''Rockies.tv presented by bet365''<ref>{{Cite web |title=Back for 2025 -- ROCKIES.TV -- stream games in the Rockies territory |url=https://www.mlb.com/rockies/news/rockies-tv-returns-for-2025 |access-date=2025-04-29 |website=MLB.com |at=Promotional image within article. |language=en}}</ref> | * KUSA/KTVD (Denver)<ref name=":5" /> * KKTV (Colorado Springs)<ref>{{Cite web |last=Andrews |first=Aspen |date=2025-05-23 |title=Programming changes for 11 News Friday night due to Rockies coverage |url=https://www.kktv.com/2025/05/23/programming-changes-11-news-friday-night-due-rockies-coverage/ |access-date=2025-08-07 |website=KKTV |language=en}}</ref> * KSL (Salt Lake City)<ref name=":8" /> * KGWN (Cheyenne, Wyoming)<ref name=":9">{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=KGWN |date=2025-04-04 |title=Colorado Rockies games will air on Wyoming News Now |url=https://www.wyomingnewsnow.tv/news/colorado-rockies-games-will-air-on-wyoming-news-now/article_f83f08ff-6c06-49e6-b3b3-aa03a41dbb7c.html |access-date=2025-08-07 |website=Wyoming News Now |language=en}}</ref> * KCWY-DT (Casper, Wyoming)<ref name=":9" /> |- |Cleveland Guardians (2025–present) |''CLEGuardians.tv presented by Progressive''<ref>{{Cite web |last=Axelrod |first=Ben |date=2025-03-27 |title=Cleveland Guardians announce plans to air games on local TV |url=https://awfulannouncing.com/mlb/cleveland-guardians-announce-plans-local-tv.html |access-date=2025-03-28 |website=Awful Announcing |language=en-US}}</ref> | * WKYC (Cleveland)<ref name=":7">{{cite news |title=WKYC and Cleveland Guardians expand long-standing partnership with broadcast rights agreement |url=https://www.mlb.com/press-release/press-release-wkyc-and-cleveland-guardians-expand-long-standing-partnership-with-broadcast-rights-agreement |publisher=MLB.com |date=April 7, 2025}}</ref> * WSEE-TV (Erie, Pennsylvania)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Lilly Broadcasting to Carry 10 Cleveland Guardians Baseball Games |url=https://www.erienewsnow.com/story/52814619/lilly-broadcasting-to-carry-10-cleveland-guardians-baseball-games |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=www.erienewsnow.com |language=en}}</ref> * WBNS-DT2 (Columbus) |- |Minnesota Twins (2025–present) |''Twins.tv presented by Progressive''<ref name=":1" /> | * KMSP-TV (Minneapolis–Saint Paul) * KXLT-TV/KTTC/DT2 (Rochester) * KDLH/KBJR-TV (Duluth–Superior) * KEYC-TV/KMNF-LD (Mankato) * KXJB-LD/KVLY-TV (Fargo–Moorhead) * KFYR-TV (Bismarck, North Dakota) * KEVN-LD (Rapid City, South Dakota) * KDLT-TV (Sioux Falls, South Dakota) * KCRG-TV/DT2 (Cedar Rapids, Iowa) * KWQC-DT3 (Davenport, Iowa–Quad Cities) * KYOU-TV (Ottumwa, Iowa) * KTIV (Sioux City, Iowa)<ref name=":6" /> |- |Seattle Mariners (2025–present) |Root Sports Northwest (2025)<br />''Mariners.tv'' (2026–present)<ref>{{cite news |last1=Divish |first1=Ryan |title=Mariners announce new TV and streaming options for 2026 season |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/mariners-announce-new-tv-and-streaming-options-for-2026-season/ |access-date=29 January 2026 |work=The Seattle Times |date=29 January 2026}}</ref> | * KING-TV (Seattle) * KGW (Portland) * KREM and KSKN (Spokane, Washington) * KTVB (Boise, Idaho)<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-03-30 |title=Mariners, KING 5 partner to bring 10 games over-the-air for free |url=https://www.king5.com/article/sports/mlb/mariners/seattle-mariners-king-5-television-partnership/281-e0e0d3c6-0a2d-4e68-9854-8b71b31fda6b |access-date=2026-03-30 |website=king5.com |language=en-US}}</ref> * KAPP and KVEW (Yakima and the Tri-Cities, Washington) * KLSR-TV and KEVU-CD (Eugene, Oregon) * KIFI-DT3 (Idaho Falls, Idaho) * KTFT (Twin Falls, Idaho) * KULR-TV (Billings, Montana) * KWYB (Butte–Bozeman, Montana) * KFBB-TV (Great Falls, Montana) * KHBB (Helena, Montana) * KTMF (Missoula, Montana) * KTUU-TV and KAUU (Anchorage, Alaska) * KFXF-CD (Fairbanks, Alaska) * KUBD (TV) (Juneau, Alaska) * KGMB and KHNL-DT2 (Honolulu)<ref>{{Cite web |title=NEW for 2026: Stream Mariners games on Mariners.TV; get a free trial |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/mariners-tv-is-here-for-2026-season |access-date=2026-04-09 |website=MLB.com |language=en}}</ref> |- |Cincinnati Reds (2026-present) |''Reds.tv''<ref>https://www.mlb.com/news/reds-games-mlb-distribution-2026</ref> | * WXIX-TV/DT3 (Newport, Kentucky–Cincinnati) * WAVE/DT3 (Louisville) * WKYT-DT2 (Lexington) * WBKO-DT3 (Bowling Green, Kentucky) * WDEM-CD (Columbus) * WTCL-LD/WOHZ-CD/W28FG-D (Cleveland–Canton–Akron) * WFIE-DT2 (Evansville, Indiana) * WPTA (Fort Wayne, Indiana) * WNDU-DT3 (South Bend, Indiana) * WSAZ-TV/WQCW (Huntington, West Virginia–Charleston–Portsmouth) * WVLT-TV/WBXX-TV (Knoxville, Tennessee) * WSMV/DT2 (Nashville) * WMC-DT3 (Memphis) * WBTV (Charlotte) * WHNS (Greenville–Spartanburg, SC–Asheville, North Carolina) |- |Detroit Tigers (2026-present)<br>Detroit Red Wings (NHL, 2026-present) |''Detroit SportsNet'' ''presented by Bet365''<br>''Tigers.TV'' | * WJBK-TV (Detroit) * WNEM-TV/DT2 (Flint–Saginaw–Bay City) * WILX (Lansing) * WOOD-TV/WOTV/WXSP-CD (Grand Rapids) * WTVG/DT2 (Toledo, Ohio) * WWTV/WFQX-TV (Cadillac–Traverse City–Northern Michigan) * WNDU-TV (South Bend, Indiana) * WLUC-TV/DT2 (Marquette-Escanaba-Houghton)
|- |Kansas City Royals (2026–present) |''Royals.tv''<ref name=":11">{{Cite web |title=MLB to produce and distribute local games for Royals in 2026 |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/royals-games-to-be-distributed-by-mlb-in-2026 |access-date=2026-02-02 |website=MLB.com |language=en}}</ref> | * KCTV-TV/KSMO-TV (Kansas City) * KAIT-DT3 (Jonesboro, Arkansas) * KWCH-DT/KSCW-DT (Wichita, Kansas) * WIBW-TV (Topeka, Kansas) * KMIZ-DT3 (Columbia) * KFJX-DT2 (Joplin) * KYCW-LD (Springfield) * KFVS-DT2 (Cape Girardeau) * WOWT-DT2 (Omaha) * KYOU-TV/DT3 (Ottumwa, Iowa) * KWQC-TV/DT3 (Davenport–Quad Cities) * KCRG-TV/DT2/DT3 (Cedar Rapids, Iowa) * KTIV-DT2/DT3 (Sioux City, Iowa) * KOLN/KSNB-TV/DT2/KCWH-LD (Lincoln, Nebraska) * KNPL-LD/DT2/KIIT-DT2/KNOP-TV (North Platte, Nebraska) * KSBI (Oklahoma City) |- |Miami Marlins (2026–present) |''Marlins.tv''<ref name=":12">{{Cite web |title=Marlins games will be produced, distributed by MLB in 2026 |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/marlins-games-mlb-distribution-2026-season |access-date=2026-02-02 |website=MLB.com |language=en}}</ref> | * WBFS-TV/WFOR-TV (Miami–Fort Lauderdale) * WPBF (West Palm Beach) * WZVN-TV/WBBH-TV (Fort Myers–Naples)<ref>{{Cite web |last=Watkins |first=Tyler |date=2026-05-01 |title=Watch Miami Marlins take on Philadelphia Phillies Friday on MeTV |url=https://www.gulfcoastnewsnow.com/article/watch-tv-miami-marlins-game-philadelphia-phillies/71185721 |access-date=2026-05-01 |website=WBBH |language=en}}</ref> * WRDQ-TV/WFTV-TV (Daytona Beach–Orlando–Clermont) |- |Milwaukee Brewers (2026–present) |''Brewers.tv presented by Potawatomi Sportsbook''<ref>{{Cite web |title=How to Watch Brewers Broadcasts {{!}} Milwaukee Brewers |url=https://www.mlb.com/brewers/schedule/programming |access-date=2026-02-06 |website=MLB.com |language=en}}</ref> | * WITI (Milwaukee) * WISC-TV/DT2 (Madison) * WJMN-TV Escanaba–Marquette, Michigan * WACY-TV/WGBA-TV (Green Bay–Fox Cities) * WKBT-DT/DT2 (La Crosse–Eau Claire) * KDLH/KBJR-TV (Duluth–Superior) * WSAW-TV/DT4/WZAW-LD (Wausau–Rhinelander) |- |St. Louis Cardinals (2026–present) |''Cardinals.tv''<ref name=":10">{{Cite web |title=Cardinals games will be produced, distributed by MLB in 2026 |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/cardinals-games-mlb-distribution-2026-season |access-date=2026-02-02 |website=MLB.com |language=en}}</ref> | * KMOV/Matrix Midwest (St. Louis) * KFVS-TV/DT2 (Cape Girardeau–Paducah, Kentucky) * KYTV/KSPR-LD/KYCW-LD (Springfield) * KAIT/DT2 (Jonesboro, Arkansas) * WBXC-CD (Champaign, Illinois) * WEEK-TV/DT2/DT3 (Peoria, Illinois) * WGEM-DT2 (Quincy, Illinois) * WIFR-LD/WSLN (Rockford, Illinois) * WFIE/DT2 (Evansville, Indiana) * KCRG-TV/DT3 (Cedar Rapids, Iowa) * KWQC-TV/DT3/DT4 (Davenport–Quad Cities) * KTIV/DT2/DT3 (Sioux City, Iowa) * WMC-TV/DT3 (Memphis) * KSBI (Oklahoma City)<ref>{{Cite web |title=MLB On Griffin - St. Louis Cardinals |url=https://www.news9.com/mlb-on-griffin-st-louis-cardinals |access-date=2026-04-23 |website=News9.com |language=en-US}}</ref> * KOTV-DT3 (Tulsa, Oklahoma)<ref>{{Cite web |title=MLB On Griffin - St. Louis Cardinals |url=https://www.newson6.com/mlb-on-griffin-st-louis-cardinals |access-date=2026-04-23 |website=NewsOn6.com |language=en-US}}</ref> |- |Tampa Bay Rays (2026–present) |''Rays.tv''<ref>{{Cite web |title=Rays.TV {{!}} Tampa Bay Rays |url=https://www.mlb.com/rays/schedule/raystv |access-date=2026-02-06 |website=MLB.com |language=en}}</ref> | * WMOR (Bradenton–Tampa) * WBBH-TV/WZVN-TV (Fort Myers) * WCJB-TV (Gainesville) * WJAX-TV/WFOX-TV (Jacksonville) * WPLG (Miami–Fort Lauderdale) * WESH/WKCF (Daytona Beach–Orlando–Clermont) * WJHG-TV (Panama City, Florida) * WALA-TV (Mobile, Alabama–Pensacola) * WCTV (Tallahassee) * WPBF (West Palm Beach)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Finally, here’s that Rays TV information you’ve been waiting to get |url=https://www.tampabay.com/sports/rays/2026/03/26/cable-satellite-internet-tv-broadcasts-spectrum-comcast-directv-cox-fubo/ |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=Tampa Bay Times |language=en}}</ref> |- |Washington Nationals (2026–present) |''Nationals.tv''<ref>{{Cite web |title=Nationals games to be broadcast in 2026 on Nationals.TV |url=https://www.mlb.com/nationals/news/nationals-tv-coming-in-2026 |date=January 14, 2026 |website=MLB.com |language=en}}</ref> | * WTTG/WDCA (Washington, D.C.) * WVIR-TV (Charlottesville, Virginia) * WSVW-LD/WSVF-CD/WHSV-TV (Harrisonburg, Virginia) * WWBT/WUPV (Richmond, Virginia) * WDBJ/WZBJ (Roanoke, Virginia) * WITN-TV (Greenville–New Bern, North Carolina) * WRAL-TV/WRAZ (Raleigh, North Carolina) * WECT (Wilmington, North Carolina)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Washington Nationals Expand Coverage Across Mid-Atlantic with WTTG FOX 5 and Gray Media Partnerships |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/washington-nationals-expand-coverage-across-mid-atlantic-with-wttg-fox-5-and-gray-media-partnerships |access-date=2026-04-03 |website=MLB.com |language=en}}</ref> |}
== See also ==
* Other MLB television packages produced in-house by units of Major League Baseball: ** The Baseball Network ** ''MLB Network Showcase'' ** ''Friday Night Baseball''
==References== {{reflist}}
{{Major League Baseball on television}} {{Major League Baseball}} {{U.S. regional sports networks}}
Local Media Category:Television channels and stations established in 2023