The Major League Baseball (MLB) playoffs are an exciting time for fans of America’s favorite pastime. As the best teams in the league face off in a battle for the championship, millions of viewers tune in to watch the action unfold. But who is broadcasting the MLB playoffs? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a closer look at the networks and channels that are bringing the games to your screen, so you can be sure to catch every thrilling moment of the playoffs.
Broadcasting Partners for MLB Playoffs
Major Networks
- ESPN
- Overview: ESPN is a sports-focused cable and satellite television channel that was launched in 1979. The network is a subsidiary of the Walt Disney Company and is available in over 200 countries worldwide.
- MLB Coverage: ESPN has been broadcasting Major League Baseball games since the network’s inception. The network airs regular-season games, as well as playoff and World Series games. ESPN also produces various baseball-focused programs, including “Sunday Night Baseball,” “Baseball Tonight,” and “The Body Issue.”
- FOX Sports
- Overview: FOX Sports is a sports-focused cable and satellite television channel that was launched in 1999. The network is a subsidiary of the FOX Broadcasting Company and is available in over 90 million homes in the United States.
- MLB Coverage: FOX Sports has been broadcasting Major League Baseball games since the network’s inception. The network airs regular-season games, as well as playoff and World Series games. FOX Sports also produces various baseball-focused programs, including “MLB Whiparound,” “MLB on FOX,” and “FOX Sports Live.”
- TBS
- Overview: TBS is a cable and satellite television channel that was launched in 1977. The network is a subsidiary of Turner Broadcasting System and is available in over 100 million homes in the United States.
- MLB Coverage: TBS has been broadcasting Major League Baseball games since the network’s inception. The network airs regular-season games, as well as playoff and World Series games. TBS also produces various baseball-focused programs, including “Braves on TBS,” “MLB on TBS,” and “TBS Sports.”
- MLB Network
- Overview: MLB Network is a sports-focused cable and satellite television channel that was launched in 2009. The network is a joint venture between Major League Baseball and the FOX Sports Media Group and is available in over 60 million homes in the United States.
- MLB Coverage: MLB Network airs regular-season games, as well as playoff and World Series games. The network also produces various baseball-focused programs, including “MLB Tonight,” “The MLB Network Show,” and “30 Clubs in 30 Days.”
Regional Sports Networks
Regional Sports Networks (RSNs) play a significant role in broadcasting the MLB playoffs. These networks are dedicated to covering sports events in specific regions of the United States. The following are some of the RSNs that are broadcasting the MLB playoffs:
NESN (New England Sports Network)
NESN is a regional sports network that covers New England. It is owned by the Boston Red Sox and the Boston Bruins. During the MLB playoffs, NESN will broadcast all the games involving the Red Sox. This means that fans in New England will be able to watch every game of the playoffs involving their favorite team.
YES Network
The YES Network is a regional sports network that covers the New York City area. It is owned by the New York Yankees and the New Jersey Nets. During the MLB playoffs, YES Network will broadcast all the games involving the Yankees. This means that fans in the New York City area will be able to watch every game of the playoffs involving their favorite team.
SportsNet LA (Spectrum Sports Network Los Angeles)
SportsNet LA is a regional sports network that covers the Los Angeles area. It is owned by the Los Angeles Lakers and the Los Angeles Dodgers. During the MLB playoffs, SportsNet LA will broadcast all the games involving the Dodgers. This means that fans in the Los Angeles area will be able to watch every game of the playoffs involving their favorite team.
AT&T SportsNet
AT&T SportsNet is a regional sports network that covers various regions of the United States. It is owned by AT&T. During the MLB playoffs, AT&T SportsNet will broadcast games involving teams from the regions it covers. This means that fans in those regions will be able to watch some of the games involving their favorite teams.
Overall, RSNs play a crucial role in broadcasting the MLB playoffs, providing fans with access to games involving their favorite teams in their respective regions.
MLB Playoffs Broadcasting Schedule
Wild Card Round
The Wild Card Round of the MLB Playoffs is an exciting time for baseball fans, as it marks the beginning of the postseason journey. Here’s a breakdown of which channels will be broadcasting the games during this round:
ESPN
ESPN is a major player in the world of sports broadcasting, and they will be covering the Wild Card Round of the MLB Playoffs. Specific game schedules and announcer lineups will be released closer to the start of the playoffs.
ESPN2
ESPN2 is another prominent sports broadcaster that will be covering the Wild Card Round of the MLB Playoffs. Exact game schedules and commentator teams will be announced at a later date.
In addition to these channels, local broadcasters may also carry playoff games, so it’s a good idea to check with your local sports network for specific viewing information.
Division Series
The Division Series is the first round of the MLB playoffs, featuring the top teams from each division. Here’s a breakdown of which networks will be broadcasting each game:
- ESPN: TBD
- ESPN2: TBD
- FOX Sports: TBD
- TBS: TBD
Unfortunately, specific game schedules and channels have not yet been announced by the networks. However, as the Division Series is the first round of the playoffs, it’s likely that the majority of games will be broadcast on either ESPN, ESPN2, or TBS, with FOX Sports potentially picking up a few games as well.
Stay tuned to find out which games will be broadcast on which networks, and be sure to check back with us for updates as they become available.
League Championship Series
The League Championship Series (LCS) is the second round of the MLB playoffs, featuring the winners of the American League Division Series (ALDS) and the National League Division Series (NLDS). The LCS is a best-of-seven series, with the winner advancing to the World Series.
- FOX Sports: TBD
- TBS: TBD
Note: The broadcasting schedule for the LCS is subject to change based on the teams that advance to the playoffs. The networks listed above are the primary broadcasters for the ALCS and NLCS, but the specific games and times may vary. It is recommended to check the official MLB website or the respective network’s schedules for the most up-to-date information.
World Series
The World Series is the final championship series of Major League Baseball (MLB) and is contested by the winners of the American League (AL) and National League (NL) pennants. The World Series is played in a best-of-seven format, with the first team to win four games being declared the champion.
The broadcasting schedule for the World Series is determined by the networks that have secured the rights to broadcast the games. In recent years, the World Series has been broadcast on FOX Sports, with the exact schedule and coverage details to be determined.
It is important to note that the broadcasting schedule for the World Series can vary depending on the teams that qualify for the championship series. For example, if the AL and NL champions are from the same region, the games may be broadcast on different networks or channels.
In addition to the traditional television broadcasts, the World Series is also available through online streaming services and radio broadcasts. These options provide fans with even more ways to follow their favorite teams and players as they compete for the championship title.
Overall, the World Series is one of the most highly anticipated events in the MLB season, and the broadcasting schedule is an essential part of the experience for fans around the world. Whether you prefer to watch the games on TV, stream them online, or listen to the radio broadcasts, there are plenty of options available to ensure that you don’t miss a single moment of the action.
Announcers and Commentators for MLB Playoffs
National Broadcasters
As the MLB playoffs progress, fans around the country tune in to watch their favorite teams compete for a championship. With multiple networks broadcasting the games, fans have a variety of options to choose from when it comes to announcers and commentators. Here are some of the national broadcasters for the MLB playoffs:
Fox Sports
Joe Buck and John Smoltz are the primary announcers for Fox Sports during the MLB playoffs. Buck, a veteran broadcaster, has been with Fox Sports since 1996 and has covered numerous major sporting events, including the World Series. Smoltz, a former MLB pitcher, brings his expertise as a former player to the broadcast booth, providing insightful analysis of the game from a player’s perspective.
TBS
Matt Vasgersian and John Smoltz team up to provide commentary for TBS during the MLB playoffs. Vasgersian, a seasoned broadcaster, has been with TBS since 2007 and has covered various sports events, including the MLB playoffs. Smoltz, as mentioned before, brings his wealth of knowledge as a former player to the broadcast, providing unique insights into the game.
Dan Shulman, Aaron Boone, and Buster Olney make up the commentary team for ESPN during the MLB playoffs. Shulman, a seasoned broadcaster, has been with ESPN since 1995 and has covered numerous sporting events, including the MLB playoffs. Boone, a former MLB player and manager, provides his expertise as a former player, while Olney, a renowned sportswriter, brings his extensive knowledge of the game to the broadcast booth.
MLB Network
Jon Sciambi and Chris Young provide commentary for the MLB Network during the playoffs. Sciambi, a seasoned broadcaster, has been with the MLB Network since 2009 and has covered various sporting events, including the MLB playoffs. Young, a former MLB pitcher, provides his expertise as a former player, offering unique insights into the game from a player’s perspective.
Local Broadcasters
NESN
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Dave O’Brien and Rick Sutcliffe are the local broadcasters for the NESN network. O’Brien is a seasoned broadcaster who has been with NESN since its inception in 1984, while Sutcliffe is a former Major League pitcher who provides insightful analysis.
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Michael Kay and Paul O’Neill are the primary announcers for the YES Network. Kay is a well-known broadcaster who has been with the network since its launch in 2002, while O’Neill is a Hall of Fame outfielder who played for the New York Yankees from 1985 to 1992.
SportsNet LA
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Charley Steiner and Rick Sutcliffe are the local broadcasters for SportsNet LA. Steiner is a veteran broadcaster who has called games for multiple MLB teams, while Sutcliffe is a former Major League pitcher who provides insightful analysis.
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Mario Impemba and Rod Allen are the local broadcasters for AT&T SportsNet. Impemba is a seasoned broadcaster who has called games for multiple MLB teams, while Allen is a former Major League outfielder who played for the Detroit Tigers from 1984 to 1990.
Radio Broadcasting for MLB Playoffs
National Radio Networks
ESPN Radio
ESPN Radio is one of the most widely recognized and respected names in sports broadcasting. As a subsidiary of the world-renowned ESPN network, ESPN Radio has established itself as a leading source for comprehensive sports coverage, including play-by-play broadcasts of Major League Baseball (MLB) games. With a team of seasoned broadcasters and analysts, ESPN Radio offers listeners an unparalleled audio experience, complete with expert commentary, in-depth analysis, and up-to-the-minute scoring updates.
MLB Network Radio
MLB Network Radio is a dedicated audio platform that offers a comprehensive listening experience for MLB fans. This service is brought to you by the MLB Network, a prominent entity in the world of baseball broadcasting. MLB Network Radio provides live play-by-play coverage of all MLB games, including the thrilling action of the playoffs. With a roster of knowledgeable broadcasters and experts, MLB Network Radio ensures that listeners stay informed and entertained throughout the duration of the postseason.
By offering access to both national and local radio networks, MLB fans can tune in to their preferred broadcasters to enjoy the excitement of the playoffs from the comfort of their homes or on the go.
Local Radio Stations
When it comes to listening to MLB playoff games on the radio, many fans turn to their local radio stations to catch all the action. Here are some of the local radio stations that will be broadcasting the MLB playoffs:
- WFAN (New York Yankees)
- WFAN is a sports radio station based in New York City that has been broadcasting Yankees games since 1989.
- The station’s play-by-play announcer, John Sterling, has become famous for his unique style and catchphrases, such as “Go ahead, rook” and “Bombers knock him down, they get up and they knock him down again!”
- WFAN also features analysts such as former Yankees players Paul O’Neill and Tino Martinez, who provide insights and analysis during the games.
- KLAA (Los Angeles Angels)
- KLAA is a sports radio station based in Los Angeles that has been broadcasting Angels games since 2016.
- The station’s play-by-play announcer, Terry Smith, has been calling Angels games for over 30 years and is known for his deep voice and enthusiasm.
- KLAA also features analysts such as former Angels players Tim Salmon and José Molina, who provide insights and analysis during the games.
- WSCR (Chicago Cubs)
- WSCR is a sports radio station based in Chicago that has been broadcasting Cubs games since 2015.
- The station’s play-by-play announcer, Pat Hughes, has been calling Cubs games for over 20 years and is known for his calm and professional style.
- WSCR also features analysts such as former Cubs player Ron Coomer, who provides insights and analysis during the games.
- KBME (Houston Astros)
- KBME is a sports radio station based in Houston that has been broadcasting Astros games since 2017.
- The station’s play-by-play announcer, Todd Kalas, has been calling Astros games for over 10 years and is known for his smooth and clear voice.
- KBME also features analysts such as former Astros player Adam Everett, who provides insights and analysis during the games.
These local radio stations provide fans with a way to listen to their favorite teams’ games even if they can’t watch them on TV or attend the games in person. With experienced play-by-play announcers and knowledgeable analysts, these stations bring the excitement of the MLB playoffs to life through the radio.
International Broadcasting for MLB Playoffs
Countries and Networks
- Canada: Sportsnet and Rogers Communications
- Sportsnet is a Canadian sports network that offers extensive coverage of MLB games, including the playoffs. They provide pre- and post-game analysis, as well as in-game commentary in both English and French. Rogers Communications is a Canadian telecommunications company that has a long-standing partnership with MLB. They have the exclusive rights to broadcast MLB games in Canada, including the playoffs.
- Japan: Nippon Broadcasting System (NBS) and Sports Nippon
- Nippon Broadcasting System (NBS) is a Japanese television network that has been broadcasting MLB games since the 1970s. They have extensive experience in covering baseball, and their commentators are highly knowledgeable about the sport. Sports Nippon is another Japanese sports network that also broadcasts MLB games, including the playoffs. They provide comprehensive coverage of all MLB games, including pre- and post-game analysis.
- United Kingdom: BT Sport and Sky Sports
- BT Sport and Sky Sports are two of the most popular sports networks in the United Kingdom. Both networks have the rights to broadcast MLB games, including the playoffs. They provide extensive coverage of all MLB games, including expert analysis and commentary. BT Sport offers MLB games on its channels, as well as through its online streaming service. Sky Sports also offers MLB games on its channels, as well as through its online streaming service.
- Australia: Fox Sports Australia
- Fox Sports Australia is a sports network that offers extensive coverage of MLB games, including the playoffs. They provide comprehensive coverage of all MLB games, including pre- and post-game analysis. Fox Sports Australia also offers MLB games on its channels, as well as through its online streaming service.
- Latin America: ESPN Latin America
- ESPN Latin America is a sports network that offers extensive coverage of MLB games, including the playoffs. They provide comprehensive coverage of all MLB games, including pre- and post-game analysis. ESPN Latin America also offers MLB games on its channels, as well as through its online streaming service. They have a large following in Latin America and are known for their expert analysis and commentary.
Streaming Options for MLB Playoffs
Official MLB Platforms
- MLB.tv
- Overview: MLB.tv is the official streaming platform of Major League Baseball, providing access to live out-of-market games, on-demand game replays, and a range of other features.
- Availability: MLB.tv is available in the United States and select international markets, offering a comprehensive viewing experience for baseball fans around the world.
- Pricing: MLB.tv offers a variety of subscription plans, starting at $20.99 per month or $119.99 for an annual subscription, providing affordable access to live and on-demand game content.
- Devices: MLB.tv can be accessed through a range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and gaming consoles, offering flexibility and convenience for fans.
- Features: MLB.tv provides features such as multiple language options, a DVR-like “game archive” for replays, and a “condensed game” option for a faster viewing experience, enhancing the overall viewing experience for subscribers.
- MLB At Bat app
- Overview: MLB At Bat is the official mobile app of Major League Baseball, offering live audio and video broadcasts, in-game stats, and a range of other features for baseball fans.
- Availability: MLB At Bat is available for download on iOS and Android devices, providing a convenient and accessible platform for fans to stay up-to-date on the latest MLB action.
- Pricing: MLB At Bat offers a range of subscription options, starting at $19.99 per year for a Premium subscription, which includes access to live audio and video broadcasts, in-game stats, and other premium features.
- Features: MLB At Bat provides features such as game alerts, in-game stats, and a “listen live” option for live audio broadcasts, making it a comprehensive resource for baseball fans on-the-go. Additionally, the app offers customizable notifications and the ability to set reminders for upcoming games, further enhancing the user experience.
Subscription-based Services
ESPN+
- ESPN+ is a subscription-based streaming service offered by ESPN, which is widely regarded as the leader in sports coverage.
- With a subscription to ESPN+, viewers can access a wide range of live MLB games, including regular-season matchups, playoffs, and the World Series.
- ESPN+ also offers exclusive content, such as studio shows, analysis, and original programming, providing a comprehensive viewing experience for baseball fans.
DAZN
- DAZN, short for “Da Zone,” is a subscription-based sports streaming service that offers access to a variety of live sports events, including MLB games.
- DAZN has secured broadcasting rights for MLB games in several countries, allowing subscribers to watch their favorite teams and players in action.
- In addition to live game coverage, DAZN also provides highlights, replays, and other sports-related content to keep viewers engaged.
fuboTV
- fuboTV is a subscription-based streaming service that specializes in live sports programming, including MLB games.
- With a subscription to fuboTV, viewers can access a range of MLB games, including regular-season matchups, playoffs, and the World Series.
- In addition to live game coverage, fuboTV also offers a variety of sports-related content, such as analysis, highlights, and original programming, making it a popular choice for sports fans.
Free Trials and Promotions
If you’re looking to catch the MLB playoffs without committing to a long-term subscription, several streaming services offer free trials and promotions that you can take advantage of. Here are some of the most popular options:
Sling TV
Sling TV is a popular streaming service that offers access to a range of sports channels, including ESPN and TBS, which will be broadcasting the MLB playoffs. With a 7-day free trial, you can try out the service without risking any money. After the trial period ends, you’ll need to sign up for a monthly subscription to continue watching.
Hulu + Live TV
Hulu + Live TV is another great option for watching the MLB playoffs. With a 7-day free trial, you can test out the service and see if it’s the right fit for you. In addition to ESPN and TBS, Hulu + Live TV also offers access to other sports channels, as well as a large library of on-demand content.
YouTube TV
YouTube TV is a newer streaming service that offers access to a range of sports channels, including ESPN and TBS. With a 7-day free trial, you can try out the service and see if it’s the right fit for you. YouTube TV also offers a cloud DVR, which allows you to record games and watch them later.
Overall, these free trials and promotions offer a great opportunity to catch the MLB playoffs without committing to a long-term subscription. Whether you choose Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, or YouTube TV, you’ll have access to the channels you need to watch the games and root for your favorite teams.
FAQs
1. Who is broadcasting the MLB playoffs?
The MLB playoffs are broadcast by various networks in the United States, including FOX, FS1, TBS, and ESPN. These networks have the rights to broadcast the games and will show most of the postseason games, including the World Series.
2. How can I watch the MLB playoffs?
You can watch the MLB playoffs on your TV through a cable or satellite provider, or through a streaming service such as MLB.TV or AT&T TV. Some games may also be available on local broadcast networks such as FOX or ESPN.
3. Are the MLB playoffs available on streaming services?
Yes, the MLB playoffs are available on streaming services such as MLB.TV and AT&T TV. These services allow you to watch the games online or on your mobile device, as well as record the games to watch later.
4. Can I watch the MLB playoffs on my local broadcast network?
It depends on your location and the network carrying the games. In the United States, FOX and ESPN will broadcast some of the MLB playoff games on their local broadcast networks. You can check your local listings to see which games will be broadcast on your local network.
5. Is MLB.TV the only way to watch the MLB playoffs online?
No, MLB.TV is one of several options for watching the MLB playoffs online. You can also watch the games on the MLB website or through the MLB At Bat app, as well as on other streaming services such as AT&T TV.
6. How much does it cost to watch the MLB playoffs?
The cost of watching the MLB playoffs depends on the service you choose. MLB.TV and AT&T TV both offer monthly subscription fees, while some local broadcast networks may require a cable or satellite subscription to access their channels. You can check the individual service websites for more information on pricing.