YouTube TV Drops MLB Network from its Programming

MLB Network is being cut from YouTube TV's programming after the two parties were unable to reach an agreement on a contract renewal, according to an email that was sent to YouTube TV subscribers Tuesday.

MLB Network is being cut from YouTube TV's programming after the two parties were unable to reach an agreement on a contract renewal, according to an email that was sent to YouTube TV subscribers Tuesday.

MLB Network was previously a part of YouTube TV's base plan for $64.99 per month. It will not be any longer, for now, at least.

“We apologize for the news and will continue conversations with the MLB to advocate on your behalf, in the hope of restoring their content on YouTube TV,” the email sent to YouTube TV subscribers read.

MLB Network issued a statement Wednesday afternoon that reads:

"With Spring Training about to start, we regret that YouTube TV has been unwilling to negotiate a fair carriage agreement. MLB Network has offered terms consistent with what close to 300 other U.S. providers have agreed to for distribution.

"MLB Network remains widely available throughout the U.S., including on Altice USA (Optimum), AT&T U-verse, Charter Communications (Spectrum), Comcast, Cox Communications, DIRECTV, DIRECTV Stream, DISH, fuboTV, Sling TV, Verizon Fios and many others. Viewers can visit www.findmlbnetwork.com for alternative options to get MLB Network in their local area.

"Since its debut, MLB Network has provided the most comprehensive baseball coverage available. In 2023, MLB Network plans to air more than 250 live regular season and Spring Training games, MLB Network Showcase telecasts, the MLB First-Year Player Draft, the MLB Draft Combine, the National Baseball Hall of Fame induction ceremony, live on-site coverage from the World Baseball Classic, MLB London Series, All-Star Game and World Series, and at least seven different daily studio shows, including the multiple Emmy Award-winning MLB Tonight.

"With the great demand and value for live baseball content, Major League Baseball’s commitment to MLB Network now and in the future is stronger than ever before, and we remain open and committed to reaching an agreement with YouTube TV as soon as possible. To contact YouTube TV about MLB Network, viewers can Tweet at YouTube TV via @YouTubeTV and @TeamYouTube."

YouTube TV has engaged in contract disputes with Disney and NBCUniversal, and was able to reach an agreement in both instances. While the MLB Network is being dropped, it does not mean that the channel will be gone forever.

MLB Network is carried on a number of other cable plans however, such as Xfinity and DirecTV Stream. The network is dedicated entirely to baseball news and analysis, with programs like Quick Pitch, MLB Central, MLB Now, High Heat, MLB Hot Stove, Intentional Talk and MLB Tonight.

Major League Baseball games will still air on TBS, FOX and ESPN, which will remain available to YouTube TV customers.

Pitchers and catchers will begin reporting to spring training in two weeks, with spring training games beginning Feb. 24. Opening Day is set for Mar. 30.

Check out the latest episode of the Jack Vita Show for more MLB offseason analysis!

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