MLB Secures Local Broadcast Rights for Three Teams

Major League Baseball (MLB) has announced it will take over the production and distribution of local broadcasts for the Cleveland Guardians, Milwaukee Brewers, and Minnesota Twins starting in the 2025 season, following their departure from the bankrupt Diamond Sports Group. This shift will significantly enhance the teams' broadcast reach, with the Guardians' availability increasing by 235% and the Twins' by 307%. MLB Deputy Commissioner Noah Garden emphasized the league's commitment to reducing blackouts and expanding viewership through a direct-to-consumer streaming service and cable negotiations, similar to previous arrangements with other teams. The decision comes amid Diamond Sports' ongoing bankruptcy proceedings, which have led to a loss of rights for many teams. As MLB consolidates local media rights, it aims to bundle these for potential future partnerships with digital platforms like ESPN and Amazon. The move is seen as a way to improve local revenue and fan engagement, despite potential short-term revenue dips for the teams involved.