YouTube TV is contacting customers to inform them that MLB Network will go dark tonight. YouTube TV says they have not been able to renew their deal with MLB Network, and the network will no longer be available after today.
As always, Google is hoping to reach a new deal but is currently not willing to pay what MLB Network wants.
Look for fights like this to become more common in 2023. A growing number of services are pushing back against demands for higher payments from networks. YouTube TV and others are facing a tough choice of dropping networks or having to charge customers more.
Look for both sides to try and work out a deal before the start of the MLB season.
You can find MLB Network on Hulu, fuboTV, and Sling TV.
Here is the email from YouTube TV:
We have been working hard to renew our deal with the MLB Network to continue carrying their content on YouTube TV. However, we have been unable to reach an agreement, and starting today, January 31, 2023, MLB Network content will no longer be available on YouTube TV. You will also lose access to any previous Library recordings from this channel. Members will be able to continue watching select national MLB games via coverage on FOX, ESPN, and TBS through our Base Plan. We also provide the flexibility to pause or cancel your membership anytime.
As always, thank you for being a YouTube TV member, and for your patience and understanding.
Sincerely,
The YouTube TV team