Amazon, MLB Including Out-Of-Market Streams For Prime Members

Amazon has reached an agreement with MLB to include the MLB.TV out-of-market game package within the Prime Video Channels offering for its U.S. Prime members. The MLB.TV package will cost the same $118.99 for the ’19 season, or $24.99 per month, that is charged in the league’s direct subscription sales. But the Amazon deal gives MLB a meaningful presence within another growing digital video offering, and one that is particularly focused on a la carte content offerings such as MLB.TV. The move also provides an integrated experience for Prime members to be able to easily access the live games and subscribe using payment options already on file with Amazon. MLB Exec VP/Media Chris Tully called Prime Video Channels “another great distribution platform for out-of-market fans to have daily access to live baseball.” Prime Video Channels has become a significant driver of OTT subscriptions, and Amazon typically takes a percentage of revenue generated through the platform.