The multi-year deal enables DraftKings to enhance its wagering offerings.
DraftKings will be granted the rights to use official MLB data along with MLB marks and logos within its sports betting products.
The increased wagering capabilities are focused on live and in-game options, as real-time betting increases in popularity among US bettors.
In its statement on the agreement, DraftKings said the deal demonstrates MLB’s plan to leverage the potential for the integration of official data and technology in sports.
In May, a Sports Handle article claimed the NBA and MLB used their official data supplier, Sportradar US, to push operators for integrity fees.
The report suggested multiple operators, who had purchased Sportradar’s official data feed Betradar, were approached with the new terms ahead of the NBA play-offs.
Similarly, sportsbooks were told they will have to pay a royalty fee of 0.25% of wagers on MLB contests for access to the league’s official data.
Gambling Insider has contacted DraftKings for comment on the matter of integrity fees.
Ezra Kucharz, Chief Business Officer at DraftKings, said: “This deal speaks to the commitment we have to our customers and sports leagues alike, while providing the safest and most entertaining US-made sportsbook.”
MLB Executive Vice President, Kenny Gersh, said: “Buoyed by our collective commitments to drive innovation in the US sports betting marketplace, the tools provided to DraftKings – including fast, rich and reliable data feeds and MLB brand marks – will be central to creating these powerful new ways to consume and connect with our sport.”
