ESPN Ends MLB Broadcast Deal After 2025 Season

ESPN has announced it will end its partnership with Major League Baseball (MLB) after the 2025 season, concluding a 35-year relationship. The decision comes amid declining ratings for MLB games, particularly outside of playoffs, and ESPN's request for a reduced rights fee, which MLB rejected. Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed frustration over the perceived minimal coverage of MLB on ESPN's platforms, highlighting a shift in focus toward more popular sports like the NBA. Despite parting ways, ESPN remains open to exploring new avenues for MLB coverage in the future. The network will continue to broadcast key events, including the Sunday Night Baseball and playoff games, until the end of the 2025 season. The departure leaves open questions about which networks may step in to fill the void left by ESPN’s exit from MLB broadcasting.