- MLB Players Inc. won a key ruling on May 22, 2025, as Judge Karen Marston denied DraftKings’ bid to fast-track its lawsuit to an appellate court, keeping the case in Pennsylvania’s federal court.
- The players accuse DraftKings of using their names and images without permission in betting promotions, a move that could reshape how betting platforms handle athlete likenesses.
- This victory for the players signals a longer legal fight ahead, potentially impacting how you see player-related content on betting apps like DraftKings.
If you follow sports betting or baseball, you’ve likely heard about the legal battle between MLB players and DraftKings.
The latest update is a big step forward for the players. Here’s what’s happening and why it matters to you.
A Court Ruling Shifts the Game
On May 22, 2025, U.S. District Judge Karen Marston rejected DraftKings’ attempt to fast-track its case to an appellate court. This decision keeps the lawsuit, filed by MLB Players Inc., moving forward in Pennsylvania’s federal court.
The players claim DraftKings used their names and images in sports betting ads and promotions without permission, violating their publicity rights. This ruling is a procedural victory for the players, allowing them to press their case without shortcuts.
Why This Lawsuit Hits Home
If you bet on MLB games or enjoy DraftKings’ platform, this case could affect how betting companies operate. The players argue that DraftKings profited by using their identities—like headshots and names in betting ads—without consent. This isn’t just about money.
It’s about athletes controlling their own image. A win for the players could push betting platforms to get proper permissions, which might change how you see player-related content in betting apps.
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The Road Ahead for DraftKings
DraftKings now faces a tough road. The company’s attempt to dismiss the lawsuit earlier this year failed, and this latest ruling means the legal battle continues. Without a settlement, you can expect months, maybe years, of litigation.
For DraftKings, this adds to a pile of legal challenges, including lawsuits from Baltimore over alleged exploitative practices. For you as a fan or bettor, it’s a reminder that the sports betting world is navigating tricky legal waters.
What’s Next for Players and Fans
The MLB Players Association sees this as a chance to protect athletes’ rights. If the players win, it could set a precedent for how betting companies use athlete images across sports.
For you, this might mean clearer rules about what betting platforms can show, ensuring your favorite players have a say in how their likeness is used. Keep an eye on this case—it’s shaping the future of sports betting.
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