Nationals MASN: MLB to Take Over Local Broadcasts

WASHINGTON, January 2, 2026 – The Washington Nationals are poised to end their two-decade broadcasting partnership with MASN and join MLB's in-house production setup, a move that could reshape how fans in the D.C.area consume Nationals baseball. New Era for Nationals Broadcasts The team is reportedly shifting away from regional sports networks toward a league-controlled model for game production and distribution. The Nationals' contract with MASN expires in February, and a renewal appears unlikely. MLB currently produces broadcasts for six other teams, offering a model for in-market streaming via ESPN's new app. The Nationals' move could be a precursor to further changes in MLB broadcasting, with nine other teams possibly affected by the fate of the fanduel Sports Network. According to a report from the TalkNats blog,the Nationals will not be negotiating a new deal with MASN,the regional sports network that has carried their games as the team relocated from Montreal in 2005. Instead,the team is exploring joining the six MLB clubs already under the league's production umbrella. This arrangement would mean Nationals games are produced and distributed by MLB, with in-market streaming available through ESPN's new app beginning this season. The teams currently utilizing this model are the San Diego Padres, Cleveland Guardians, Seattle mariners, Minnesota Twins, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Colorado rockies. Navigating Linear Distribution Shoudl the Nationals proceed with this plan, they will likely establish direct agreements with cable and satellite providers in the D.C. area to ensure linear television access, mirroring the approach taken by the other MLB-controlled teams. Select games could also be broadcast on an over-the-air partner. The Nationals' relationship with MASN has been contentious for years. Multiple lawsuits between the club and the Baltimore Orioles-controlled network,stemming from disputes over ownership stakes and rights payments,have created one of the most challenging local broadcast situations in Major League Baseball. This shift would give the Nationals complete control over their local broadcasts for the first time since moving to Washington. Prior to Friday's report, many anticipated that Monumental Sports Network, owned by Ted Leonsis and home to the washington Wizards and Capitals, would be a strong contender for the Nationals' broadcasting rights. While that possibility hasn't been entirely dismissed, with a final decision expected next month when the MASN contract expires, indications suggest the Nationals are leaning towards aligning with MLB's production group. Ripple Effects Across MLB The Nationals may not be the only team undergoing a broadcast overhaul. The future of Main Street Sports Group, owner of the FanDuel Sports Network channels, is also expected to be steadfast next month. If a potential sale to London-based streaming service DAZN falls through, nine MLB clubs currently contracted with Main street would be seeking new broadcast solutions.Some or all of these teams could also end up under MLB control this season. What does this mean for Nationals fans? This change could lead to more accessible streaming options and potentially lower costs, but it also introduces uncertainty regarding linear television availability.