MLB Partners with RISE to Boost Baseball's Popularity in India

Major League Baseball (MLB) has announced a partnership with RISE Worldwide Limited to enhance the popularity of baseball in India. This collaboration will focus on marketing and social media initiatives, culminating in a live event in Mumbai in October 2026. The partnership aims to tap into India's dynamic sports market, engaging a young audience through grassroots programs and original content. MLB's Deputy Commissioner highlighted the significance of this collaboration in expanding baseball's reach, while RISE's Head emphasized the opportunity to connect the sport with Indian fans. This initiative marks a crucial step in MLB's international growth strategy.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 20, 2026, 20:58 IST

Major League Baseball's New Initiative in India

On Wednesday, Major League Baseball (MLB) revealed a collaboration with RISE Worldwide Limited, a subsidiary of Reliance Industries Limited, aimed at promoting baseball in India. This partnership will encompass marketing, social media outreach, and commercial projects, culminating in a live event scheduled for October 2026 in Mumbai, designed to bring the thrill of baseball closer to Indian fans.

Enhancing Baseball's Presence in India

This collaboration signifies a pivotal move in MLB's strategy for international growth, highlighting India's emerging role as a vital sports market with a youthful and engaged audience, as stated in a press release.

Since establishing its office in New Delhi in 2019, MLB has been actively fostering the sport in India through grassroots initiatives like MLB First Pitch in schools, youth tournaments such as the MLB Cup, and broadcasting MLB postseason games. The league has also produced India-centric original content, including 'Indian Baseball Dreams,' to enhance awareness and engagement with the sport.

A Landmark Collaboration

"This partnership represents a significant milestone in MLB's global expansion efforts," remarked Noah Garden, Deputy Commissioner for Business & Media. "Collaborating with RISE will enable us to share the excitement of baseball with broader audiences while fostering cultural ties through sports."

Nikhil Bardia, Head of RISE Worldwide, commented, "India stands as one of the most vibrant sports markets globally, and with baseball's increasing popularity, this is the perfect time to connect the sport with Indian fans. RISE Worldwide is thrilled to partner with MLB to create engaging experiences that make baseball accessible and thrilling for audiences nationwide."

The expertise of RISE in sports and media opens up unique avenues to introduce baseball to more fans across India, according to the release.

"Together, MLB and RISE will provide captivating experiences, including a local event in Mumbai and grassroots programs aimed at introducing baseball to new audiences. Following an exhilarating World Baseball Classic in March, MLB looks forward to this partnership to further globalize the game in India," the release concluded.