In a major move for international sports media, Amazon Prime Video will broadcast over 350 Major League Baseball (MLB) regular-season games per year in Japan through the SPOTV channel, sources tell The Athletic.
The deal marks a significant expansion of MLB’s digital footprint in Asia, giving Japanese fans access to nearly the entire season and further positioning streaming platforms as central players in global sports broadcasting. While traditional linear TV has long dominated international baseball coverage, digital OTT services are increasingly offering comprehensive packages designed for overseas audiences.
Industry insiders note that the agreement aligns with Amazon’s broader sports strategy, which has included rights acquisitions across the NFL, UEFA Champions League, and domestic Japanese sports. By leveraging its SPOTV partnership, Prime Video aims to replicate the success seen in other international markets, providing live games, highlights, and interactive features for Japanese viewers.
“This is about more than just showing games,†a source close to the deal said. “It’s about creating an immersive, year-round MLB experience for fans who previously had limited access to live matches.â€
The initiative comes at a time when MLB is actively pursuing global growth, including expanded marketing campaigns in Asia, partnerships with local broadcasters, and digital engagement strategies targeting younger fans. Analysts suggest that streaming platforms like Prime Video may become the primary conduit for baseball’s international expansion, offering flexible viewing options and direct fan engagement.
The 2026 season in Japan will see fans able to watch a substantial portion of MLB action live, with all broadcast windows simulcast across multiple digital platforms supported by SPOTV. While financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, sources indicate the agreement is part of a multi-year collaboration, signaling a long-term commitment to MLB’s growth in Asia.
For MLB, this is not just a broadcasting deal—it’s a strategic push to cement its presence in one of the sport’s most passionate overseas markets, ensuring that every strikeout, home run, and pitching duel reaches Japanese fans in real time.