ESPN Nears $550 Million MLB Rights Deal, Netflix and NBCU Also Involved

MLB Media Rights Deals Approaching Finalization

• ⚾ Major League Baseball is reportedly nearing the end of negotiations for its linear and streaming rights through 2028.
• 🤝 Potential deals are with ESPN, NBC Universal, and Netflix, according to sources close to the situation.

ESPN's Proposed Package

• 💰 ESPN is close to an agreement for a package of rights worth approximately $550 million.
• 📺 This new deal includes rights for streaming out-of-market games (MLB TV) for about $450 million, plus in-market games for five local teams and a new midweek national game package.
• ⚠️ It's important to note that these are different rights than ESPN's previous package.

NBC Universal and Netflix Involvement

• 🏈 NBC Universal is expected to acquire all Sunday night games and wildcard games for about $200 million per year over a three-year period.
• 📺 Netflix is reportedly set to secure the rights for the Home Run Derby for up to $50 million annually for three years.

Current Status and Caveats

• 🗣️ There has been no official comment from MLB, ESPN, NBC Universal, or Netflix.
• ⏳ These negotiations are still in progress and the final terms and closures are not guaranteed.