MLB Playoffs A Hit In Primetime

MLB’s expanded playoff format has its critics (raises hand). But fans are still tuning in, as data from VIZIO’s Inscape shows. Since the postseason started on Oct. 7, MLB games are second only to the NFL in terms of primetime minutes watched. And MLB action is No.3 by watch-time on weekends, even while going up against both the NFL and college football action.

(via VIZIO’s Inscape)

• MLB doesn’t trail the NFL by much in terms of primetime minutes watched, with 5.57% — versus 6.51% for the NFL (though the NFL also had fewer primetime games in the Oct. 7-Oct. 18 stretch).

• Across ESPN, Fox, Fox Sports 1 and TBS, MLB’s share of primetime minutes watched is 26.83%, compared to the NFL’s 29.04%.

• TBD how the remainder of the playoffs perform with the National League’s top teams (Dodgers, Braves, Mets) already out while the American League Championship Series features a clash between perennial contenders, the Yankees and Astros.