How to watch MLB games without cable in 2024?
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The 2024 MLB season kicks off in March and runs through the regular season until September. With 30 teams in the league, each will play 162 games during the regular season.
Split in two sentences: As for watching MLB without cable, many people seek streaming services offering live TV channels like FOX, FS1, TBS, ESPN, MLB Network, and regional sports networks for in-market games. In this guide, i'll explain how to watch the 2024 MLB season games without cable and provide a list of the best streaming services for watching MLB.
How to watch baseball without cable?
- Subscribe to a live TV streaming service like Fubo TV, for national MLB games on channels like FOX, TBS, ESPN and in-market games on your RSN
- Watch games aired on channels like FOX for free with over-the-air TV
- Watch out-of-market MLB season games on MLB.tv
- Grab a hotdog and enjoy the ballgame!
What TV channels will show MLB in 2024
ESPN, FOX, and other popular TV channels have released their broadcast schedules for the 2024 Major League Baseball season, bringing exciting postseason rematches, international trips, and special events. Here are some captivating nationally televised games to note on your calendar for 2024.
| Provider | What will be broadcasted | Special events |
| ESPN | Sunday Night Baseball |
|
| FOX, FOX Sports 1 | More than 109 nationally televised games |
|
| TBS | Tuesday night Major League Baseball | - |
| MLB Network | Select games |
|
| Apple TV+ | Friday Night Baseball | - |
| Regional sports networks | Not nationally televised In-market games | - |
| MLB.tv | Not nationally broadcasted out-of market games | - |
Best streaming services for MLB 2024
Looking for the best way to stream MLB games without cable? We've got you covered! We've reviewed the top streaming services and compiled a list of the best options for watching MLB. Our analysis includes which MLB channels each service offers for nationally broadcasted games and their coverage of regional sports networks (RSNs) for in-market MLB games. Just keep in mind that blackout rules may apply. Here's my top recommendations for MLB streaming in 2024:
- Fubo TV – overall the best MLB streaming service
- Direct TV Stream – great streaming service for in-market MLB games
- Hulu + Live TV – top streaming service for watching MLB with a wide content library
Fubo TV
| TV channels for MLB: | ESPN, FOX, FS1 |
| Total live TV channels: | 260+ |
| Free trial: | ✅Yes, 7-day free trial |
| Price: | From $59.99/month |
Fubo TV is the best streaming service to watch MLB without cable. This provider is known for its top-notch sports packages, offering channels like FOX, ESPN, NFL Network.
Its Pro plan, priced at $59.99 per month, includes most RSNs like NBC Sports, Bally Sports. There are also popular MLB channels like ESPN, ESPN2, ABC, Fox, and Fox Sports 1, with MLB Network available as an add-on for $7.99. The only downside is that TBS isn't included, but most of its regular season games are usually simulcast on regional sports networks anyway.
| FOX | ✅ Yes |
| FS1 | ✅ Yes |
| TBS | ❌No |
| ESPN | ✅ Yes |
| MLB Network | ✅ Yes |
Additionally, Fubo provides ample DVR storage of up to 250 hours across all plans, upgradable to 1,000 hours with the Cloud DVR 1000 add-on. You can stream on three screens simultaneously or upgrade to the Unlimited Screens add-on for streaming on 10 devices at home and two outside it.
Plus, Fubo TV is compatible with Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, and Chromecast for easy viewing, and you can try it risk-free with a 7-day free trial.
Direct TV stream
| TV channels for MLB: | ESPN, FOX, FS1, TBS, MLB Network |
| Total live TV channels: | 95+ |
| Free trial: | ✅ Yes, 5-day free trial |
| Price: | From $79.99/month |
For those wondering how to watch MLB without cable, Direct TV Stream might be a great all-around choice. ESPN, ESPN2, ABC, Fox, Fox Sports 1, and TBS are part of DirecTV Stream's Entertainment package, starting at $79.99/month.
Additionally, nearly all RSNs and MLB Network are included in the Choice package, which costs $83.99/month for the first two months and then $108.99/month afterward. Some regional sports networks include YES Network, MASN, NBC Sports, and SportsNet.
| FOX | ✅ Yes |
| FS1 | ✅ Yes |
| TBS | ✅ Yes |
| ESPN | ✅ Yes |
| MLB Network | ✅ Yes |
Direct TV Stream offers access to over 25,000 shows and movies, although some content may be available for purchase or rental only.
With unlimited DVR capabilities, you can record your favorite content to watch later. Most customers can simultaneously stream Direct TV Stream on all compatible devices connected to their home network, with the ability to use up to three streams while on the go. Compatible devices include Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, and Chromecast.
Hulu + Live TV
| TV channels for MLB: | ESPN, FOX, FS1, TBS |
| Total live TV channels: | 95+ |
| Free trial: | ❌ No |
| Price: | From $76.99/month |
Hulu + Live TV is another MLB streaming service highly recommended for watching baseball games. It primarily includes RSNs like NBC Sports and SNY, limiting local game access to select markets. However, if you're in one of such areas, it's a solid choice at $76.99/month, offering ESPN, FOX, FS1, and TBS (excluding MLB Network). Plus, it comes with ESPN+ at no extra cost, often featuring out-of-market MLB games during the regular season.
| FOX | ✅ Yes |
| FS1 | ✅ Yes |
| TBS | ✅ Yes |
| ESPN | ✅ Yes |
| MLB Network | ❌ No |
Hulu + Live TV offers 95+ live TV channels and access to the Hulu library with over 4600 movies and TV shows, including Disney+ content. Additionally, it includes Unlimited DVR to record shows for later viewing on supported devices. You can watch on up to two screens simultaneously, with the option to add Unlimited Screens for more devices.
Moreover, it is compatible with Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, and Chromecast. Unfortunately, there's no free trial available for Hulu With Live TV.
Youtube TV
| TV channels for MLB: | ESPN, FOX, FS1, TBS |
| Total live TV channels: | 100+ |
| Free trial: | ✅ Yes, 5-day free trial |
| Price: | From $79.99/month |
YouTube TV offers a variety of TV networks catering to sports enthusiasts, such as FOX, FS1, ESPN, and TBS, among others. You can access these channels with the Base plan, priced at $62.99/month.
However, from 2023, it no longer included the MLB Network. Nevertheless, the other channels available should help make up for this loss. Regarding RSNs, YouTube TV only provides the NBC Sports channels and SNY access.
| FOX | ✅ Yes |
| FS1 | ✅ Yes |
| TBS | ✅ Yes |
| ESPN | ✅ Yes |
| MLB Network | ❌ No |
YouTube TV combines the convenience of streaming with a wide range of live TV channels, making it a popular choice for cord-cutters and TV enthusiasts! YouTube TV is great for sports fans who want to record games. It offers unlimited cloud DVR storage for up to nine months, supports three simultaneous streams, and has six user accounts.
Plus, it streams live channels in crisp 1080p and offers a 4K Plus add-on for select channels. Moreover, it’s compatible with various streaming devices like Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, and Chromecast. You can test out all of YouTube TV's plans with free trials, but remember that the trial period might differ depending on the subscription you choose.
MLB.tv
MLB.tv is a streaming service that brings the excitement of MLB to fans across the globe. MLB.TV lets subscribers stream live and on-demand out-of-market baseball games. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just catching up, you can watch your favorite teams in action.
The service provides access to every out-of-market game during the regular season. If you’re not in the local broadcast area, MLB.TV is your ticket to follow your team wherever you are.
Beyond live games, subscribers can enjoy exclusive content such as MiLB (Minor League Baseball) games, MLB Big Inning highlights, and local pregame and postgame shows. The only downside is that MLB.tv blocks local games depending on your location, so you might need to learn how to pass those blackouts.
MLB.tv All Teams plan costs $149.99 and includes all out-of-market games. For a simpler experience, MLB.tv At Bat offers audio coverage and extra features for $29.99. If you’re an Amazon Prime member, you can sign up for a 7-day free trial of MLB.tv through your Prime membership.
MLB.tv provides more than just live baseball game streams. Alongside the games, you'll discover an expanded library of premium content. It includes documentaries and captivating stories about baseball history, players, and iconic moments. You can also enjoy classic programs, reliving legendary games, highlights, and behind-the-scenes footage. Additionally, immerse yourself in the excitement of past World Series championships with World Series Films.
Special MLB events this season
MLB has some exciting special events for the 2024 season, including three international series, the 94th All-Star Game at Globe Life Field in Texas, and special tributes to baseball's greatest legends. Let’s take a closer look:
| Date, time(ET) | Game | Platform |
| March 28, 7 p.m. | World Series Champion Texas Rangers host the Chicago Cubs | ESPN |
| April 14, 4 p.m. | San Diego Padres vs Los Angeles Dodgers (Mexico City Series) | ESPN |
| April 28, 4 p.m. | Houston Astros vs Colorado Rockies (Mexico City Series) | ESPN |
| May 4, 7 p.m. | Baseball night in America | FOX |
| June 8, 1 p.m. | Philadelphia Phillies vs New York Mets (London Series) | FOX |
| June 9, 10 a.m. | Philadelphia Phillies vs New York Mets (London Series) | FOX |
| June 20, 7 p.m. | San Francisco Giants vs. St. Louis Cardinals (MLB at Rickwood Field) | FOX |
| July 16, 8 p.m. | National League vs. American League (2024 MLB All-Star Game) | FOX |
| August 18, 7 p.m. | New York Yankees vs. Detroit Tigers (MLB Little League Classic) | ESPStream |
The MLB World Tour starts with the first-ever Major League games in South Korea, featuring the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres, exclusively on ESPN.
The Mexico City Series presents the Colorado Rockies against the Houston Astros, also covered by ESPN.
The London Series highlights the Philadelphia Phillies versus the New York Mets at London Stadium, exclusively on FOX Sports and ESPN.
FOX Sports will exclusively cover a historic contest between the St. Louis Cardinals and San Francisco Giants at Rickwood Field.
The season concludes with ESPN's MLB Little League Classic, featuring the New York Yankees and Detroit Tigers in Williamsport, PA.
Can I watch MLB for free?
Yes, you can watch MLB for free. You can stream MLB for free for a limited period of time by subscribing to reliable streaming services such as Fubo TV, or Direct TV Stream with a free trial.
If you have ever wondered about accessing illegal pirate streams of MLB, we strongly advise against it for various reasons, including security risks and poor stream quality. Instead, we recommend trying out legitimate streaming services that offer free trial plans, such as Fubo TV, which provides a 7-day free trial, or Direct TV Stream, which offers a 5-day free trial.
Alternatively, you can watch MLB games for free on over-the-air TV channels. These options ensure a safer, higher-quality viewing experience while supporting the sport and its broadcasters.
Final thoughts
Accessing MLB games without cable has become increasingly feasible with the rise of streaming services and digital platforms. Whether through MLB.tv, streaming services like Fubo TV and Direct TV Stream, or free over-the-air TV channels, fans have plenty of options for enjoying baseball without needing a cable subscription.
Overall, our top recommendation to watch MLB games without cable is Fubo TV. With its wide variety of content, crisp 4K streams, and affordability, it stands out as one of the best options available. Choosing Fubo TV ensures a high-quality viewing experience while avoiding the limitations of traditional cable services.
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