Calling All Kiwi Baseball Fans: You Don't Need a Mitten to Catch These Games!
So, you're a New Zealander with a hankering for some MLB action? You're not alone! Baseball might not be the national sport (that would be rugby, obviously), but there's a dedicated crew of Kiwis who love the crack of the bat and the thrill of a close play at the plate.
But here's the rub: with the vast Pacific Ocean separating you from the stadiums, catching a live game can be a logistical nightmare (and let's face it, flying to catch the Mets just isn't an option for everyone). Fear not, fellow baseball enthusiasts! There are ways to watch MLB in NZ without needing to hop on a plane.
Streaming Services: Your Ticket to the Diamond (Without the Elbow Grease)
Let's dive into the world of streaming, the hero for every cord-cutter and sports fanatic. Here are your main options:
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Sky Sport Now: This kiwi classic offers a slice of the MLB pie, particularly during the glorious World Series. They have different passes – weekly, monthly, and annual – so you can choose what suits your baseball cravings. Just a heads-up, it's not the whole season, but hey, the World Series is the crown jewel, right?
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Apple TV+: Now, this one might surprise you. Apple isn't just about sleek phones and overpriced dongles. They've got their own streaming service, and guess what? They stream Friday Night Baseball! That's a sweet deal for those who want a taste of the weekly MLB action.
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MLB.TV: This is the holy grail for hardcore baseball fans. A subscription gets you access to pretty much every single game, live and on-demand. The catch? You'll be blacked out for any games played in your region (no watching the Auckland A's if they ever become a thing). But for those who want the full MLB experience, this is the answer (and possibly a slight dent in your wallet).
Finding Your Tribe: Baseball Buddies and Beyond
Watching sports is always more fun with friends, especially when you can share the agony of a dropped catch or the ecstasy of a walk-off homer. Here's how to find your MLB crew in NZ:
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Social Media: There are plenty of New Zealand-based baseball groups on Facebook and Twitter. Search for them and join the conversation! You might even find watch parties happening near you.
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Local Pubs: Believe it or not, some pubs cater to niche sports like baseball. Do some research online and see if there's a spot near you that shows MLB games. Bonus points if they serve decent hot dogs!
So There You Have It!
Now you're armed with the knowledge to enjoy MLB from the comfort of your couch (or your favourite pub). Remember, baseball is a game, but it's also a journey. Embrace the late-night games (thanks to the time difference), the questionable calls by the umpires, and the sheer joy of seeing a perfectly executed double play. Just don't forget the snacks – because baseball and hot dogs go together like sunshine and beaches (which, let's be honest, New Zealand has plenty of already).
So grab your virtual peanuts (or the real deal), crack open a beverage, and get ready to yell "strike three!" at your TV. MLB season is in full swing, and you, my friend, are ready to play ball (from afar).
