MLB taps Reliance’s RISE to pitch Baseball in India, Mumbai event planned in October
The partnership will span marketing, social media and business initiatives, culminating in a live baseball event in Mumbai in October 2026, aimed at bringing the sport closer to Indian fans.
The collaboration marks an important step for MLB to deepen its footprint in India, which it sees as strategically important in an environment where global sports content consumption is increasing. MLB, which opened offices in New Delhi in 2019, raises awareness of the sport through grassroots programs like MLB First Pitch in schools, youth competitions including the MLB Cup, and MLB postseason broadcasts.
The league has also sought to localize baseball content through India-focused originals such as Indian Baseball Dreams, as it aims to expand engagement beyond niche audiences.
“This partnership is a significant milestone in MLB’s international growth strategy,” said Noah Garden. “Working with RISE will allow us to introduce the excitement of baseball to broader audiences while strengthening cultural ties through sports.”
Nikhil Bardia said India’s rapidly evolving sports ecosystem makes this an opportune moment for baseball to establish a local presence.
“India is one of the most dynamic sports markets in the world, and the global rise of baseball makes this a natural moment to bring the sport closer to Indian fans,” Bardia said. “RISE Worldwide is pleased to partner with MLB to create experiences on the field and beyond that make baseball accessible and exciting for audiences nationwide.” The companies said they will jointly roll out fan engagement programmes, grassroots initiatives and on-field experiences, with the Mumbai event expected to serve as a major showcase for sports in India. The move follows the World Baseball Classic earlier this year, where MLB highlighted growing international interest in the game.
