Kansas City, MO, February 3, 2026
The Kansas City Royals have announced the launch of Royals.TV, a new streaming service set to enhance fan experience during the 2026 season. This innovative platform, developed in partnership with Major League Baseball, will provide fans with flexible viewing options for all games. Fans within the team’s territory can access the service for $99.99 annually, while those outside can use an MLB.TV subscription. This shift towards direct-to-consumer streaming signifies a broader trend in sports broadcasting and emphasizes the Royals’ commitment to fan accessibility and engagement.
Kansas City, MO – The Kansas City Royals are stepping up to the plate with a significant evolution in how fans will experience their games, announcing a new streaming service, Royals.TV, for the 2026 season. This strategic move, a partnership with Major League Baseball, positions the team at the forefront of sports broadcasting innovation and expands accessibility for their dedicated fanbase across the region and beyond. It reflects a proactive approach to evolving market dynamics, ensuring that the passion for Kansas City baseball remains vibrant and easily accessible.
This initiative is a testament to the kind of entrepreneurial innovation that drives economic growth and enhances community engagement in Kansas City. By embracing new technologies and direct-to-consumer models, the Royals are not only securing the future of game broadcasts but also demonstrating a commitment to their supporters. This forward-thinking strategy aligns with a broader trend of businesses adapting to consumer preferences, a crucial element for sustained economic vitality in our dynamic city.
A New Era for Fan Access: Royals.TV Unveiled
Beginning with the 2026 season, the Kansas City Royals will broadcast all of their games on a new streaming service called Royals.TV, in partnership with Major League Baseball. This direct-to-consumer platform will be available not only through the MLB app but also via traditional cable and satellite television, offering a comprehensive viewing experience. This move addresses the modern fan’s desire for flexibility and diverse viewing options.
For fans residing within the Royals’ home television territory, an in-market streaming package for Royals.TV will be available for an annual fee of $99.99. Those outside the team’s designated market can access games through an MLB.TV subscription, priced at $149.99 per year. A significant benefit for Season Ticket Members is the continuation of free MLB.TV access, coupled with a 50% discount on an annual Royals.TV subscription, rewarding loyalty and deepening fan engagement.
Beyond Streaming: A Hybrid Approach to Broader Reach
While the introduction of Royals.TV marks a significant step into the digital streaming landscape, the Royals are ensuring that traditional viewing avenues remain robust. Games will continue to be available on cable and satellite television, providing continuity for a broad segment of the fanbase. This balanced approach demonstrates an understanding of varied consumer preferences and a commitment to inclusivity in broadcast access.
Adding to this accessibility, Gray Media has extended its partnership with the Kansas City Royals for the 2026 baseball season. This collaboration will bring select Royals games, including ten regular season matchups, to fans for free over-the-air in up to 18 markets spanning eight states. Notably, the home opener on Monday, March 30th, against the Minnesota Twins, will be simulcast on KCTV5 and KSMO-TV in Kansas City. This marks the first time since 2007 that the home opener will be broadcast for free over-the-air in Kansas City, a historic moment for local baseball enthusiasts. This dual strategy of advanced streaming and traditional free broadcasts highlights an innovative effort to maximize viewership and community connection, underscoring the flexibility and ingenuity Missouri MO entrepreneurs and organizations bring to market challenges.
Navigating a Dynamic Media Landscape
This strategic shift by the Royals comes amidst a nationwide transformation in the sports broadcasting industry. The team’s decision to partner with Major League Baseball for broadcast production and distribution stems from the termination of their previous deal with Main Street Sports, which operates the FanDuel Sports Network group of regional sports networks. This change was prompted by financial uncertainties surrounding Main Street Sports and the Royals’ need for assurance of uninterrupted game broadcasts.
The move signifies a broader trend where sports organizations are increasingly seeking greater control over their broadcast rights to ensure stability and wider distribution. It represents a pragmatic business decision aimed at enhancing “reach,” making Royals baseball available to as many fans as possible and avoiding potential disruptions.
The Wider Economic Impact and Digital Transformation (Nationwide)
The live streaming for sports market is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by rapid digital adoption and a significant increase in online viewership across the nation. In 2024, over 2.3 billion users consumed live sports online, an increase from 1.7 billion in 2022. This shift is particularly pronounced among millennials, with more than 66% preferring streaming platforms for their convenience, mobility, and interactivity.
This direct-to-consumer (DTC) approach is widely recognized as a transformative shift in broadcasting, opening new opportunities for establishing direct relationships with fans, generating new revenue streams, and enhancing engagement. By 2025, the number of US viewers who stream a sports event at least once a month is projected to exceed 90 million, a substantial rise from 57 million in 2021. This digital migration contributes to the fragmentation of the media industry, prompting sports leagues and teams to adapt by exploring alternative distribution methods like over-the-air broadcasts or DTC streaming services, thereby showcasing entrepreneurial agility in a changing market. The Royals’ adoption of this model reflects an understanding of these fundamental market forces and their implications for Kansas City economic growth.
Kansas City’s Spirit of Innovation
The Kansas City Royals’ move to embrace new broadcasting technologies is indicative of a broader spirit of innovation and progress that defines our city. Just as the new $1.5 billion terminal at Kansas City International Airport, which first opened to media for an up-close look on March 29, 2022, modernized travel infrastructure, the Royals are modernizing how fans connect with their beloved team. These advancements, fueled by private investment and strategic planning, contribute significantly to the appeal and economic vibrancy of Kansas City MO business and the broader region. The resilience of Kansas City small business and the entrepreneurial spirit of its people continue to drive forward momentum.
In conclusion, the Kansas City Royals’ introduction of Royals.TV for the 2026 season, coupled with expanded over-the-air broadcast partnerships, represents a significant leap forward in fan accessibility and business innovation. It’s a clear demonstration of how local institutions are adapting to a changing world, leveraging technology and strategic partnerships to ensure their continued connection with the community. As Kansas City continues to grow and evolve, these proactive steps from cornerstone organizations like the Royals reinforce the city’s reputation for ingenuity and dedication to its people. We encourage everyone to support Kansas City MO business and stay engaged in the exciting developments shaping Kansas City’s economic future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Royals.TV?
Royals.TV is a new streaming service through which the Kansas City Royals will broadcast all of its games for the 2026 season. It is a partnership with Major League Baseball and will be available via the MLB app, as well as cable and satellite television.
How much will Royals.TV cost?
For fans within the Royals’ home television territory, an in-market streaming package for Royals.TV will cost $99.99 per year. Out-of-market fans can watch Royals games with an MLB.TV subscription for $149.99 per year.
Will Royals games still be available on cable or satellite television?
Yes, Royals games will continue to be available through cable and satellite television providers for the 2026 season.
Will any Royals games be available for free over-the-air?
Yes, Gray Media has extended its partnership with the Kansas City Royals for the 2026 season, broadcasting ten regular season games for free over-the-air in up to 18 markets covering 8 states. The home opener on March 30th against the Minnesota Twins will be simulcast on KCTV5 and KSMO-TV in Kansas City.
Why did the Kansas City Royals make this change?
The Kansas City Royals terminated their previous deal with Main Street Sports, which operates the FanDuel Sports Network, due to financial uncertainties and a need for assurance of uninterrupted broadcasts. The move aims to increase “reach” and make Royals baseball available to as many people as possible.
What is the broader trend in sports broadcasting (Nationwide)?
The live streaming for sports market is undergoing a significant transformation nationwide, driven by rapid digital adoption and a global surge in online viewership. The number of US viewers who stream a sports event at least once a month is projected to rise to over 90 million by 2025. More than 66% of millennials prefer streaming platforms for live sports due to convenience, mobility, and interactivity.
Key Features of the Kansas City Royals’ 2026 Broadcast Plan
| Feature | Description | Cost / Availability | Geographic Scope |
|---|---|---|---|
| Royals.TV Streaming Service | New direct-to-consumer platform for all Royals games, in partnership with Major League Baseball. Available via MLB app. | In-market: $99.99/year. Out-of-market: $149.99/year via MLB.TV. | Local (in-market) and Nationwide (out-of-market) |
| Cable and Satellite Broadcasts | Continued availability of Royals games through traditional cable and satellite television providers. | Varies by provider and package | Local |
| Free Over-the-Air Games | Gray Media partnership to broadcast ten select regular season games, including the home opener. | Free | Up to 18 markets covering 8 states (Regional) |
| Season Ticket Member Benefits | Receive MLB.TV for free and a 50% discount on an annual Royals.TV subscription. | Benefit for Season Ticket Members | Local |
| Home Opener Broadcast | March 30th home opener against the Minnesota Twins to be simulcast free over-the-air on KCTV5 and KSMO-TV. | Free | Kansas City, MO (Local) |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Kansas City Families Face Dual Crises as SNAP Benefits Are Stolen
Wyandotte County Residents Prepare for Mayoral Election
Frank White Jr. Recall Marks Historic Change in Jackson County
Phil LeVota Appointed Interim Jackson County Executive
Kay Barnes Appointed as Temporary Jackson County Executive
Dave Chappelle Provokes Debate at Riyadh Comedy Festival
Audit Initiated for Hickman Mills School District
Kansas City Faces Severe Literacy Crisis Among Students
Lawsuit Challenges Missouri Stadium Funding Bill
Math Teacher’s T-Shirt Business Booms Thanks to Ted Lasso
Author: STAFF HERE KANSAS CITY WRITER
The KANSAS CITY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKansasCity.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Kansas City, Jackson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as American Royal World Series of Barbecue, Dia De Los Muertos, and Planet Anime Kansas City. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Kansas City, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Children's Mercy Hospital, Government Employees Health Association, and AMC Entertainment. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREStLouis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Missouri's dynamic landscape.
