Apple TV+ Positioned to Expand MLB Coverage, Outbidding NBC for Exclusive Rights

Apple TV+ is reportedly leading the race to acquire a significant package of Major League Baseball (MLB) media rights currently held by ESPN, according to multiple sources cited by Sports Business Journal. This potential acquisition could mark another pivotal step for Apple in streaming live sports content, intensifying competition with both traditional broadcasters and digital platforms.

Background: MLB’s Media Rights Landscape in Transition

MLB's national media rights are currently divided among major networks including ESPN, Fox Sports, and TNT Sports. The existing contract with ESPN reportedly features Sunday Night Baseball and other exclusive game slots. As MLB negotiates new deals, it faces a core industry challenge—balancing financial returns from digital-first entrants against the broader reach of legacy broadcasters.

Recent reports indicate that NBC submitted a bid for the entirety of ESPN’s MLB package. However, Apple’