Discussions concerning the potential shift of the MLB Home Run Derby to Netflix are in progress, as broadcast negotiations are currently underway
In an exciting turn of events, streaming giant Netflix is currently negotiating with Major League Baseball (MLB) to acquire the broadcasting rights for the Home Run Derby and potentially other baseball events.
Previously, these events were part of ESPN's long-term media rights package. However, ESPN opted out of its contract earlier this year, citing cost-cutting measures. This decision left MLB's rights package — including Sunday Night Baseball, 30 regular season games, the Home Run Derby, the Wild Card playoffs, and spring training games — up for grabs.
Netflix's discussions reportedly focus on acquiring the Home Run Derby starting in 2025 or 2026. The streaming giant is also showing interest in additional MLB programming beyond the Derby. This move represents Netflix's strategic push into live sports to boost subscriber growth and advertising revenue, diversifying from scripted content towards event-driven sports broadcasting.
The Home Run Derby fits Netflix's preference for high-profile events, as seen with its recent NFL Christmas Day games, major boxing matches, and WWE Raw.
MLB plans to split the ESPN media rights package among multiple broadcasters and streaming platforms. Netflix is among several interested parties alongside Apple TV+, Fox, NBC/Peacock, and potentially ESPN on a smaller scale after its initial exit. ESPN had been paying roughly $550 million annually for the package but chose to exit early as part of reorganization and cost-cutting efforts.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred confirmed discussions with replacement broadcasters soon after ESPN's opt-out, and Netflix's pursuit is part of that ongoing process.
If negotiations are successful, this potential shift away from ESPN's previous exclusivity could herald increased streaming competition for MLB media rights. It's an exciting time for sports fans as we look forward to seeing how this development unfolds.
[1] The Information
[2] Bloomberg
[3] Variety
[4] Sports Business Journal
[5] Deadline
- Should the negotiations with Netflix be successful, the Home Run Derby, traditionally part of ESPN's sports-analysis portfolio, could move to the streaming platform, marking a shift in the sports landscape.
- In an effort to diversify its content, Netflix is reportedly in discussions with Major League Baseball (MLB) to acquire the broadcasting rights for the Home Run Derby and potentially other baseball events, moving beyond its current focus on scripted content and into event-driven sports broadcasting.
