DraftKings' Appeal Denied in MLBPI Lawsuit Over Player Names

The legal battle over DraftKings' use of MLB player names continues. The company's request for an expedited review was dismissed, leaving the case to proceed along the typical legal path.

, and Administrator

2025 October 9 . 11:20 AM

1 min read

This image is clicked in a baseball ground. At the bottom, there is a man holding a camera. In the... — This image is clicked in a baseball ground. At the bottom, there is a man holding a camera. In the middle, there is a man wearing white dress is playing baseball. In the background, there are banners and posters along with a wall. At the bottom, there is green grass.

DraftKings' Appeal Denied in MLBPI Lawsuit Over Player Names

DraftKings' legal troubles persist as its attempt for an accelerated appeal in a lawsuit with Major League Baseball Players Inc. (MLBPI) was rejected. The case, focusing on the use of MLB player names and likenesses in advertising, now follows the typical legal course with no set timeline or outcome.

Judge Karen Marston dismissed DraftKings' request for a speedy review on all four points, pushing the case into the standard legal process. This includes discovery, depositions, and potentially a trial. The judge's decision aligns with a previous ruling by Judge Paul Crotty, who initially dismissed the case.

The MLB Players Association (MLBPA) sees this latest ruling as a significant procedural victory in its effort to safeguard player identities. The case could have broad implications for how sportsbooks and fantasy operators use player data in marketing. DraftKings, however, faces an uncertain legal landscape with no guarantee of success, as it grapples with several ongoing lawsuits.

The lawsuit between DraftKings and MLBPI will now proceed as usual, absent a settlement. A final ruling remains distant due to the intricate legal landscape, leaving DraftKings to navigate months, if not years, of litigation.