MLB teams post record $12.1 billion revenue in 2024

In 2024, Major League Baseball achieved unprecedented financial success, as revenues soared to a record $12.1 billion. This impressive milestone was $500 million more than the previous season, driven largely by increased attendance, ticket sales, and sponsorship agreements. The league has seen a notable revival in interest and viewership, a positive shift that highlights the growing popularity of baseball in the sports market. One of the standout matches was the two-game series held in Japan between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs in March 2025, which further fueled enthusiasm for the sport. The financial landscape of MLB plays a pivotal role in shaping franchise fortunes, with the average team now valued at $2.62 billion according to recent CNBC valuations. The most valuable franchise, the New York Yankees, is assessed at a staggering $8 billion, while the Los Angeles Dodgers follow closely at $5.8 billion. The financial metrics showcase the stark contrasts between MLB and other leagues, with the NFL having a much more lucrative model due to its salary cap structure, resulting in higher EBITDA margins compared to the lower margins experienced by MLB franchises. While the increase in revenue is laudable, experts have cautioned about the challenges ahead that could impact future earnings. Local media headwinds and the variability in team revenue sharing could pose risks, highlighting the need for strategic planning in the coming years. Nonetheless, industry insiders believe that MLB teams are undervalued compared to their counterparts in the NFL and NBA, indicating potential for further growth in franchise valuations. Understanding the historical context of team sales illuminates a more significant trend in franchise economics. Recently, the Baltimore Orioles were sold for $1.73 billion, a reflection of the valuation multiples within the league. The transaction was significantly lower than the valuations observed in the NBA and NFL, emphasizing the ongoing disparity in revenue models among these leagues. However, the recent influx of revenue and shifting fan dynamics could signal a change, offering hope for future profitability and enhanced team valuations across Major League Baseball.