The Los Angeles Dodgers, reigning World Series titleholders, are set to kick off the BBC’s live Major League Baseball summer schedule on Sunday with a matchup against the New York Mets. Under the guidance of reigning MVP Shohei Ohtani, the Dodgers remain the team to beat in the National League as they pursue a third consecutive championship.
Ohtani continues to draw comparisons to baseball icon Babe Ruth for his elite dual performance as both a pitcher and a hitter. This season, he has already tallied 22 home runs and eight pitching victories. His stellar play has been instrumental in the Dodgers’ strong season, which currently sees them leading the National League West with 65 wins and 38 losses, putting them in position to secure their 13th divisional title in 14 years.
Conversely, the New York Mets are struggling significantly, currently sitting at the bottom of the National League East with 43 wins and 60 losses. The team is relying on Juan Soto, the highest-paid player in the sport’s history, to spark a late-season recovery. Despite Soto’s impressive individual performance—which includes 21 home runs this season and a career milestone of 250 total home runs—the team has found it difficult to maintain competitive form.
The Sunday night broadcast, part of a 10-week series ending September 27, will feature commentary from Melanie Newman, Xavier Scruggs, and Felix White. This coverage arrives as baseball gains increased visibility among UK sports fans, following high-profile visits by football supporters and players during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
