With MLB's 2023 spring training already upon us, many fans are wondering where they can catch all their favorite players, and if where they live will limit their ability to watch the action.
Traditionally, fans were limited to their own geographic areas as broadcast blackouts limited out-of-market content. Now, baseball fans and sports fans, in general, have so many more options. This renders the difficulties of the past largely irrelevant.
In the USA, most fans who own a television can watch the ESPN network. Moreover, fans who do not own a TV can subscribe to ESPN+. Costs range from an annual pass for $79.99 or a monthly pass, which will cost you $11.99 every thirty days or so.
"ESPN app now has the spring training schedule up" - @ annoying dodgerafan
For fans in local markets, Bally Sports has you covered. Bally sports has regional providers in 19 markets and covers teams like the San Diego Padres and Atlanta Braves.
Lately, many fans have been abandoning the traditional cable model in favor of streaming services. There are currently many options available for pro-streaming viewers.
MLB.TV, Major League Baseball's official streaming platform, has been a popular choice for fans. You can watch nearly all 2,400 games this season for the low price of $129.99. Fans should keep in mind, however, that MLB.TV will most likely not broadcast games played in your area due to blackout restrictions, so don't cancel your cable plan just yet.
In addition, YouTube TV has a monthly fee of $64.99. Fans will get abridged game coverage and will not have to deal with annoying blackout restrictions for this price. Fans can watch the games on YouTube TV via a half-dozen channels, including MLB Network.
"Fubo TV adds MLB, NHL nets after cutting RSNs" - @ CTAM
A relatively new arrival on the market is FuboTV. Currently, a subscription costs $74.99 for the "Pro" plan and $94.99 for the "Premier" plan. This will allow fans to watch games out-of-market. Live in Arizona but want to watch the New York Yankees? FuboTV might be for you.
The MLB viewer has never been more spoiled for choice
Between your local listings and the numerous streaming services out there, fans have no excuse to miss all the action. In addition to decent prices, many services offer free trial periods, so you can work out which package works best for your viewing needs.