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MLB Network

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Article Genealogy
Parent: Major League Baseball Hop 4
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MLB Network
NameMLB Network
CountryUnited States
HeadquartersSecaucus, New Jersey
Picture format1080i (HDTV), 480i (SDTV)
OwnerMajor League Baseball (67%), Charter Communications (16.67%), Comcast (16.67%)
Launch dateJanuary 1, 2009
Sister channelsMLB Network Radio

MLB Network is an American television sports channel dedicated to Major League Baseball. It is owned by a consortium comprising Major League Baseball itself and several major cable providers. Launched in 2009, the channel operates from its state-of-the-art studios in Secaucus, New Jersey, and provides extensive coverage including live games, studio shows, original documentaries, and in-depth analysis.

History

The channel was officially announced by Commissioner Bud Selig during the 2008 Major League Baseball All-Star Game festivities at Yankee Stadium. The launch on January 1, 2009, was a landmark moment, making it the largest launch in cable television history by initial distribution. Key figures in its formation included Tony Petitti, who served as its first president. The network's establishment followed the success of dedicated sports channels like NFL Network and NBA TV, and it was designed to leverage Major League Baseball Advanced Media's technological infrastructure. Its first live game broadcast was an exhibition between the New York Yankees and the Chicago Cubs from the new Yankee Stadium in March 2009.

Programming

Programming is diverse, featuring live game broadcasts, extensive studio analysis, and original content. Signature studio shows include MLB Tonight, a live nightly wrap-up show, and Hot Stove, which covers offseason news. The network holds rights to broadcast a selection of regular-season games, including the Thursday night MLB Network Showcase and the early-season MLB Opening Day series. It also produces and airs numerous original documentaries under the MLB Network Presents banner, covering historic events like the 1998 home run chase and profiles of legends such as Roberto Clemente. Other notable programs include the annual MLB Draft coverage and the World Baseball Classic tournament.

On-air personalities

The channel features a roster of experienced broadcasters, former players, and analysts. Notable hosts and analysts have included Bob Costas, Matt Vasgersian, Harold Reynolds, and Al Leiter. Former players like Pedro Martínez, Mark DeRosa, and Billy Ripken provide expert analysis. Play-by-play commentators for game broadcasts have included names like Bob Carpenter and Victor Rojas. The network has also featured contributions from Hall of Famers such as Peter Gammons and John Smoltz, blending journalistic depth with insider perspective from those who have competed at the highest levels in American League and National League play.

Distribution

It is widely distributed across the United States and Canada through major cable, satellite, and telecommunications providers. Key carriage agreements have been secured with Comcast, DirecTV, Dish Network, Charter Communications, and Verizon Fios. In Canada, it is carried by Rogers Communications and Bell Canada. The network's broad availability was a critical goal from its inception, ensuring it reached a significant majority of Major League Baseball households. Its distribution model has often been compared to that of other league-owned channels like the NFL Network.

High-definition and digital services

The channel broadcasts a full-time high-definition feed and offers multiple digital streaming options. Subscribers can access live streams through participating television providers via the MLB.TV app and website. The network also produces exclusive digital content for its website and social media platforms. Its production facilities in Secaucus, New Jersey are designed for high-definition broadcasting, featuring multiple studios and the MLB Network Newsroom. The integration with Major League Baseball Advanced Media allows for sophisticated graphics and real-time statistical integration, enhancing the viewing experience for fans following events like the World Series or All-Star Game.

A key related service is MLB Network Radio, a 24/7 satellite radio channel on Sirius XM Radio featuring talk shows and live game broadcasts. The network's production arm also creates content for international broadcast partners and for Major League Baseball's own events. Furthermore, its archives and production capabilities support Major League Baseball International's global outreach. The network's content and personalities are frequently featured across the Major League Baseball digital ecosystem, including on MLB.com and through highlights on platforms like YouTube.

Category:American sports television networks Category:Major League Baseball Category:Television channels and stations established in 2009 Category:Sports television channels in the United States