Calling All Cricket Converted Brits: Your Guide to Catching MLB in England
So you've swapped the willow for the bat (the wooden one, not the fish!), and ditched the whites for...well, still probably whites, because let's face it, England has a certain dress code. But hey, the love of a good game transcends national boundaries, and that burning desire to see some MLB stars chuck heat and launch dingers is undeniable.
Fear not, fellow enthusiast! This guide is your one-stop shop to catching all the diamond action from the comfort of your (hopefully) comfy armchair.
How To Watch Mlb In England |
The Big Cheese: BT Sport
They've got the monopoly, baby! BT Sport holds the exclusive rights to broadcast every single MLB game live in England. Think of it as your all-you-can-eat buffet of baseball, with a side of cricket and maybe some Premier League thrown in for good measure. Packages start from around £18 a month, so it's not exactly a bag of peanuts, but if you're serious about your baseball fix, it's the homerun hitter you need.
Tip: Rest your eyes, then continue.
The MLB.tv Mystery Box (with Blackouts!)
This is the official streaming service of Major League Baseball, offering access to pretty much every game...well, almost. Here's the rub: there are blackouts for any games being shown on BT Sport. So, it can be a bit of a guessing game, but if you're a night owl and fancy catching some West Coast action, it might be your jam.
The Freebie (with a Catch)
Tip: Compare what you read here with other sources.
MLB partnered with a platform called SportsTribal to launch a 24/7 free, ad-supported streaming channel. Here's the catch (pun intended): it mostly airs highlights, classic games, and other baseball-y goodness, but no live games. Still, it's a decent option for a casual fan or someone wanting a nostalgia fix.
The Pub (the Social Option!)
Okay, this isn't exactly a streaming service, but hey, there's nothing quite like catching a game with a pint and some mates who (hopefully) understand the intricacies of a stolen base. Some pubs, especially those with a focus on American sports, might show MLB games. Just be prepared to explain the infield fly rule to your fellow patrons.
QuickTip: Don’t skim too fast — depth matters.
Bonus Tip: The Power of the Podcast
Baseball is a game rich in history, stats, and colorful characters. Feed your fandom with some fantastic MLB podcasts. They'll keep you entertained during commutes, gym sessions, or even those dreaded rainy days when cricket gets rained out (because let's be honest, it happens).
Tip: Be mindful — one idea at a time.
FAQs:
How to avoid blackouts with MLB.tv? This gets tricky and involves a bit of a technological grey area, so tread carefully. Some fans use VPNs, but be sure to check the terms of service before diving in.
How to find a pub showing MLB? Social media is your friend! Check Facebook pages or websites of pubs known for showing American sports.
How much does BT Sport cost? Packages start from around £18 a month, with different contract options available.
How can I follow MLB news? There are tons of great websites and apps dedicated to MLB news. The official MLB website is a good starting point.
How do I learn more about the rules of baseball? The MLB website has a great beginner's guide to the rules, or you can always ask a friendly pub patron (after you've bought them a drink, of course).