On March 8, Apple announced a deal with Major League Baseball (MLB) that will allow Apple to offer “Friday Night Baseball,” a weekly doubleheader that will be available to fans in eight different countries exclusively on Apple TV+ once the regular season kicks off.
In addition to “Friday Night Baseball,” fans can also check out “MLB Big Inning,” a live show that will feature highlights and look-ins airing every weeknight during the regular season.
Fans located in the US and Canada will have access to a 24/7 livestream that will feature MLB game replays, news and analysis, highlights, classic games, and more. Fans will also get to enjoy on-demand programming, including highlights and MLB-themed original content.
MLB Lockout
This deal came during a lockout, which was unanimously voted for by the owners in December. This was the ninth work stoppage in the history of MLB and the first work stoppage since the players’ strike during the 1994-1995 season.
Hours of negotiations turned to days between the owners and Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) to come to an agreement. Some issues include the collective bargaining agreement (CBA), expanded playoffs, international draft, a universal designated hitter, and more.
The deal came at an odd time considering the lockout wasn’t even over yet, and at the time, it was being reported that the owners and MLBPA were not close to a deal. From an optics standpoint, it was bad timing.
Baseball is Back
Two days later, baseball fans rejoiced as the MLBPA and owners came to an agreement. Baseball is back on. Since then, teams have made a bunch of moves, and some rosters look completely different than they did last year.
Each time there are labor negotiations, what seems to be lost are the fans. However, the MLBPA had younger players in mind when trying to negotiate a deal. Anthony Rizzo, first baseman of the Yankees, said “To the fans we will miss you most. To the younger generation of baseball players, this is for you.” Without fans in seats and eyeballs on screens, brands will not feel compelled to pay a premium for advertising and sponsorship opportunities which means the game will not grow. This has been a serious problem that MLB has struggled with.
Opening day will kick off on April 7. I believe this season should be an exciting one, and like many other fans, I am just glad to have baseball back.
