MLB National Game Viewership Jumps 44% to Best Start in 9 Years

Major League Baseball posted strong early-season viewership numbers for its national broadcasts. Through the first weekend of May, viewership for national exclusive games reached 2.28 million, a 44 percent increase over last year and the best start in nine years, according to MLB Communications on X.

The league made several changes in recent years to speed up games. Commissioner Rob Manfred and MLB introduced a pitch clock that shortened game times and made them feel quicker. Larger bases encouraged more stolen base attempts. In 2022, the last season before the larger bases, teams made 3,297 stolen base attempts leaguewide. That number jumped to 4,369 in 2023, nearly 1,100 more in one year.

MLB also banned extreme infield shifts, which preserved more traditional hits, especially for left-handed batters. For 2026, the league added an automated balls and strikes system to cut down on bad calls. The changes have paid off. Attendance is up, 2025 World Series ratings were strong, and the World Baseball Classic draws big audiences.

The positive momentum comes amid labor tensions. The Los Angeles Dodgers drew criticism after signing free agents, with some reports suggesting rival teams and owners might push for a salary cap. Labor talks between MLB and the MLB Players Association start soon. The current Collective Bargaining Agreement expires in December, and a lockout appears likely.

Players oppose a salary cap, which they say would limit earnings without improving competition. Small-market teams are outperforming big spenders this season. The Boston Red Sox, Philadelphia Phillies and New York Mets have struggled in the first quarter. Owners prioritizing a cap could lead to an extended lockout and canceled games, threatening the sport's growth.