Major League Baseball has struck a fresh broadcasting partnership that introduces Netflix to live game coverage for the first time. This three-year contract grants Netflix permission to broadcast a fresh Opening Night contest on the night before the standard Opening Day fixtures. Additionally, the platform will transmit the T-Mobile Home Run Derby along with chosen seasonal highlights, such as the 2026 MLB game at the Field of Dreams and the earlier World Baseball Classic held in Japan.
Although the programming is restricted in scope, it fits Netflix's ongoing expansion into live programming and sports content. In the prior year, the service arranged to feature a pair of NFL contests on Christmas and obtained sole U.S. broadcasting privileges for two FIFA Women's World Cup events. While Netflix has earlier obtained MLB documentary materials, 2026 represents its debut in presenting live baseball action.
The arrangement with MLB also involves reallocating some games among ESPN and NBCUniversal outlets. Apple TV retains control over the Friday evening contests. With an increasing array of services dividing up audiences and MLB's persistent blackout restrictions in place, fans in upcoming seasons may have to conduct detailed investigations to determine viewing options for individual games.