PALM BEACH, Fla. — Major League Baseball is warning that it could walk away from ESPN if the network opts out of their national TV deal next month. After four decades of partnership, a new deal with ESPN would be unlikely following an opt out, a person briefed on the league’s thinking who was not authorized to speak publicly said Thursday.

Major League Baseball's future coverage is currently looking uncertain with the league said to be exploring alternative options with ESPN's deal with them potentially set to end after this season

ESPN has been broadcasting Major League Baseball games for nearly 40 years, but it may take a tense negotiation to keep the partnership alive beyond next season.