In the wake of ESPN and MLB’s split this week, many sports media have pointed out the move seemed inevitable, as the network has reduced coverage of the sport in recent years.
However, ESPN Radio has maintained a highly visible role as the exclusive radio home of the World Series and MLB All-Star Game since 1997. That, however, will end after this season as part of the breakup.
Sports Media Watch reported Friday the MLB-ESPN split will also bring an “immediate” end to ESPN+ Game of the Day coverage for out-of-market games.
The breakup, announced Thursday night, was initially reported as a mutual opt out by both sides from the seven-year, $550 million annual deal. CNN later reported ESPN terminated the contract first, leading MLB to respond.
There’s plenty of speculation about who will grab the TV side of ESPN’s media rights deal after this season, with likely suitors including Amazon/Prime Video, NBC/Peacock, CBS/Paramount+ and The CW, or any combination of those partners.
However, Sports Media Watch reported MLB is “unlikely” to bundle radio rights with TV rights. The outlet speculated Westwood One or SiriusXM may land World Series and MLB All-Star Game coverage.
While the TV aspect of the MLB-ESPN split is getting most of the attention, and rightfully so, plenty of fans will miss the network’s radio coverage of its marquee events.
About Arthur Weinstein
Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.