Apple Hits Home-run MLB Deal
Apple has struck a right deal with Major League Baseball (MLB) that will include coverage in the UK.
The IT and technology giant’s video subscription service, Apple TV+, will show ‘Friday Night Baseball’ – a weekly double-header with live pre- and post-game shows.
Alongside the UK, the deal also covers the US, Canada, Australia, Brazil, Japan, Mexico, Puerto Rico and South Korea, with more countries to be added at a later date.
The length of the agreement, which will begin with the 2022 season, has not been disclosed.
Apple said that Friday Night Baseball would be available on Apple TV+ without the need for a subscription “for a limited time”.
However, it remains unclear when the new MLB season will begin due to an ongoing lockout caused by a dispute over the terms of a new collective bargaining agreement between the league’s players and owners.
Peter Stern, Apple’s Vice President of Services, said, “Just like all baseball fans, we can’t wait for the season to open. Baseball has a special place in the heart of so many Apple customers — not just in the United States, but in many countries around the world.”
MLB’s Chief Revenue Officer, Noah Garden, added, “Apple is the ideal partner to bring ‘Friday Night Baseball’ to fans around the world.
“Following milestones like the launch of At Bat on day one of the App Store in 2008 to the integration of Apple technology in ballparks across the country, this robust new game package is the perfect next collaboration in our long history of offering quality and innovative content to our fans.
“With national availability and international reach, MLB on Apple TV+ offers an exciting new platform to fans that allows a wider audience to connect with the game.”
Apple and MLB will also provide enhanced league and team coverage for fans to follow the league or their favourite teams in Apple News, with the ability to watch highlights in the mobile app.
Image: Unsplash
