Major League Baseball is back with a full 162-game schedule, and fans are excited to finally have the opportunity to see their favorite teams play live again. However, with the pandemic still in full swing, the 2021 MLB broadcasting schedule might be a bit different than what we’re used to. In this article, we’ll explore how to navigate this year’s MLB broadcasting schedule, how to find games on TV and streaming services, and what to expect when watching the games.
Where to Find the Games
One of the most significant changes for fans this year is the addition of ESPN+. Many MLB games that used to be broadcast on cable TV will now be exclusive to the streaming service. ESPN+ will stream over 1,000 MLB games this season, and you’ll need to sign up for a subscription to access them.
In addition to ESPN+, there are several other options for watching games from home. Some of these include fuboTV, Sling TV, DirecTV, and Hulu. Each service will offer a different package depending on which channels you would like to have. For example, fuboTV has an MLB-specific package that will give you access to Fox, FS1, MLB Network, and TBS.
If you don’t want to commit to a subscription service, you can still catch some games on cable TV. ESPN, TBS, FS1 and Fox will broadcast nationally-televised games throughout the season. Local games will vary by region, but most teams have a partnership with a regional network to broadcast games.
Understanding the Schedule
The 2021 MLB season will start on April 1st and run through October 3rd. Teams will play 162 games, with the schedule essentially broken into two parts: interleague play and intra-division play. In interleague play, teams will play a total of 20 games against one division from the opposing league. Intra-division play includes 76 games against the teams in the home division and 66 games against teams from rival divisions within the same league.
One significant change for the 2021 season is that MLB is trying to reduce travel, so teams will play several series against the same opponent in a row. This format will help reduce the number of flights required throughout the season and hopefully minimize exposure to COVID-19.
What to Expect When Watching
Watching baseball games on TV or online comes with a few challenges. One of the biggest challenges is finding the game you want to watch. With the different package deals and channels, navigating the variety of broadcasts can be challenging. Getting to know the broadcasting schedule, understanding which games will be broadcast where, and staying updated on any schedule changes will be helpful in finding games to watch.
Another challenge is keeping up with the pace of the game. Baseball is a slow-paced sport, and fans may find themselves zoning out during slower innings. However, there are a few ways to stay engaged throughout the game. One option is to focus on the statistics and analysis provided by the commentators. Understanding the players’ stats and how they compare to others across the league can make the game even more exciting. Additionally, paying attention to the nuances of the game, such as a pitcher’s pitch selection or a runner’s base running strategy, can make the watching experience more rewarding. Find new perspectives and additional details about the topic in this suggested external resource. Verify this, continue your learning journey and expand your knowledge of the subject.
Conclusion
The 2021 MLB broadcasting schedule is different from what fans are used to, but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy watching our favorite teams play. With ESPN+, local cable networks, and various streaming services, there are plenty of opportunities to tune in. By understanding the schedule and knowing where and when to find games, fans can ensure that they never miss a chance to see their team in action. So pick a service, clear your calendar, and get ready to enjoy America’s pastime!
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