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

MLB and RISE Worldwide Join Forces for Baseball in India

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], May 20: Major League Baseball (MLB) has officially partnered with RISE Worldwide Limited, a subsidiary of Reliance Industries Limited, to enhance the presence of baseball in India. This collaboration will focus on marketing, social media outreach, and commercial ventures, culminating in a live event scheduled for October 2026 in Mumbai, designed to bring the thrill of baseball to Indian fans.

This partnership represents a pivotal moment in MLB's strategy for international growth, highlighting India's emerging status as a vital sports market with a youthful and engaged audience, as stated in a recent press release.

Since establishing its office in New Delhi in 2019, MLB has been dedicated to promoting baseball in India through grassroots initiatives like MLB First Pitch in schools, youth tournaments such as the MLB Cup, and airing MLB postseason games, according to the release.

The league has also launched India-centric original programming, including 'Indian Baseball Dreams,' which aims to boost awareness and interest in the sport.

Deputy Commissioner of Business & Media, Noah Garden, remarked, 'This partnership is a significant milestone in MLB's international expansion. 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, expressed, 'India is among the most vibrant sports markets globally, and with baseball's rising popularity, this is the perfect time to connect the sport with Indian fans. We are thrilled to partner with MLB to create engaging experiences that make baseball accessible and thrilling for audiences nationwide.'

RISE's expertise in sports and media offers unique opportunities to introduce baseball to even more fans across India, as noted in 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 fans. Following an exciting World Baseball Classic in March, MLB looks forward to this partnership to further globalize the game in India,' the release concluded.