ESPN announced that it has acquired media rights to the Women’s Pro Baseball League (WPBL) for the 2026 season, marking a major expansion of its baseball portfolio.
The agreement will see 37 games streamed on ESPN and its sister network Scripps Sports Network, beginning August 1, with the full schedule available in the United States and U.S. territories.
Production and Broadcast Details
Eleven regular‑season contests will be simulcast on Scripps Sports Network, while ESPN will hold exclusive rights to the WPBL postseason, culminating in a best‑of‑five Championship Series that will crown the league’s first champion.
WPBL will oversee all production aspects of the telecasts, ensuring a professional presentation that aligns with the league’s vision for growth.
Ashley O’Connor, Vice President of Programming at ESPN, said the addition of the WPBL is an exciting development that complements ESPN’s expanding baseball coverage and underscores its commitment to women’s sports.
The deal not only broadens ESPN’s live‑sports lineup but also provides fans with a fresh, high‑profile league that promises competitive play and compelling storylines.
Industry observers note that the partnership reflects a broader trend of major networks investing in women’s professional sports, signaling increased visibility and commercial interest.
The inaugural season is expected to draw significant viewership, with advertisers and sponsors already expressing interest in aligning with the league’s growing audience.