The Tampa Bay Rays are making a major move off the field that could have a big impact on how fans watch the team in 2026 and beyond. Starting this season, Major League Baseball will take over production and distribution of the Rays’ local television broadcasts-marking a significant shift in how the club connects with its fan base.
Here’s what that means in plain terms: whether you’re a cable loyalist or a cord-cutter, you’ll have more ways to watch the Rays this season. The entire 162-game regular season schedule will be available either through traditional cable and satellite providers or via MLB’s direct-to-consumer streaming service. No more blackouts, no more jumping through hoops-just Rays baseball, wherever you are in the Florida home market.
Rays CEO Ken Babby framed the move as a fan-first decision, emphasizing the club’s commitment to accessibility and experience. “With MLB’s best-in-class streaming platform, Rays fans in our home market will finally be able to stream games on the MLB app without local blackouts,” Babby said. “And just as importantly, fans who prefer the tradition of watching Rays baseball on television will continue to find our games on cable and satellite.”
That dual-option approach is key. While streaming continues to grow, there’s still a strong base of fans who want to watch games the old-school way-on TV, flipping channels, remote in hand. MLB’s new role in local broadcast production ensures that both camps are covered.
This isn’t just a Rays-specific shift, either. Tampa Bay joins a growing list of MLB clubs that have partnered directly with the league for local broadcasts.
It’s part of a broader trend that reflects how teams and the league are adapting to the evolving media landscape. The goal?
Make games more accessible, more consistent, and more fan-friendly.
Details about which cable and satellite providers will carry the games-and on what channels-are still to come. But fans won’t have to wait long. Streaming subscriptions will go on sale in February via MLB.com and the MLB app, giving fans plenty of time to lock in their viewing plans before Opening Day.
For Rays fans, this is more than just a broadcast update. It’s a sign that the organization is thinking long-term about how to grow and engage its fan base-on screens big and small. And in a market where every connection with the community matters, that’s a win before the first pitch is even thrown.