ESPN is overhauling its Major League Baseball coverage under a new broadcast agreement, shifting away from its traditional Sunday night format to a more flexible schedule that concentrates most national games during the summer months.
Under the new 2026 schedule, 23 of ESPN’s 30 exclusive broadcasts will air across June, July, and August, reflecting a strategic focus on peak baseball season. The agreement also expands digital access, with more than 2,000 games available via MLB.TV through the ESPN app, while maintaining studio programming like Baseball Tonight throughout the year.
The revised approach allows ESPN to adjust its schedule closer to game time, with 19 matchups currently listed as “to be determined.” According to Ashley O’Connor, ESPN’s Vice President of Programming and Acquisitions, the flexibility is designed to highlight the most compelling teams and storylines as the season unfolds, rather than locking in matchups months in advance.
In addition to its cable broadcasts, ESPN will air three games on ABC, including high-profile matchups such as the Chicago Cubs vs. San Francisco Giants on June 14, the New York Yankees vs. Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park on June 27, and the St. Louis Cardinals vs. Chicago Cubs on August 16 at Wrigley Field.
The new schedule also introduces multiple doubleheaders, beginning May 7 with the Boston Red Sox hosting the Tampa Bay Rays, followed by a late game featuring the San Diego Padres against the St. Louis Cardinals. While the traditional Sunday presence is reduced, select games will still air in that window, including a newly announced matchup between the Atlanta Braves and San Diego Padres.
Among the marquee broadcasts, ESPN will carry the second-half opener following the All-Star break on July 16, featuring the New York Mets and Philadelphia Phillies. The network has also retained key tentpole events, including Jackie Robinson Day on April 15 and the MLB Little League Classic on August 23.
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