MLBPA, Penn Entertainment reach sportsbook licensing agreement
MLB Players the business arm of the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA), and OneTeam Partners have announced a partnership with PENN Entertainment.
The agreement designates PENN’s sports betting platforms, ESPN BET in the U.S. and theScore Bet in Canada, as Officially Licensed Sportsbooks of MLBPI.
The partnership provides PENN with rights to incorporate MLB player names, images, and likenesses into its online sports betting platforms, marketing assets and promotional campaigns. The deal also extends to PENN ‘s retail sportsbook operations. PENN operates 32 retail sportsbooks across its po1ifolio of casino properties, including 19 under the ESPN BET brand.
“By integrating MLB player rights into PENN Entertainment’s platforms this partnership brings fans closer to the game while unlocking new business opportunities in sports betting,” said Frank Arthofer, President of OneTeam Partners. “It highlights the growing influence of players in shaping premium, fan-focused betting experiences while enhancing player NIL rights and widening distribution.”
Jason Birney, Vice President of Operations, PENN Interactive, added, “As baseball season gets underway, we’re excited to offer fans an enhanced betting experience that includes player likenesses, expanded wagering options and a more dynamic product. Partnering with MLB Players Inc., strengthens our connection to the league and its star players and creates additional opportunities to engage fans throughout the season.”