what channel is opening day on
MLB Opening Day 2026 kicks off today, March 26, spanning multiple networks and streaming platforms amid the league's evolving broadcast deals. With the season starting strong after last night's Netflix exclusive, fans have plenty of options to catch the action live.
Key Broadcast Highlights
The 2026 MLB Opening Day features national coverage on major channels, especially for high-profile matchups. NBC leads with a doubleheader, streaming simultaneously on Peacock for broader access.
- Pirates vs. Mets (1:15 p.m. ET) : Airs on NBC and Peacock, with commentary from Matt Vasgersian, Al Leiter, and Neil Walker.
- Dodgers vs. Diamondbacks (8:30 p.m. ET) : Also on NBC and Peacock, featuring Jason Benetti alongside Orel Hershiser and Luis Gonzalez.
MLB Network joins for select games, while regional sports networks (RSNs) handle local team broadcasts, all streamable via DIRECTV nationally.
Full Opening Day Schedule Snapshot
Opening festivities stretch from March 25-27, with yesterday's Giants-Yankees on Netflix setting the tone. Here's a breakdown of notable Thursday (March 26) games and channels:
| Game | Time (ET) | Primary Channel/Stream |
|---|---|---|
| Cubs vs. Nationals | 2:20 p.m. | MARQUEE.TV, DIRECTV (Chicago) |
| Orioles vs. Twins | 3:05 p.m. | MASN, MLB.TV, DIRECTV (Baltimore) |
| Reds vs. Red Sox | 4:10 p.m. | FDSOH, NESN, DIRECTV (Boston) |
| Astros vs. Angels | 4:10 p.m. | NBCSCH, FDSW, DIRECTV (Houston) |
| Phillies vs. Rangers | 4:15 p.m. | NBCSP, BSSW, DIRECTV (Dallas) |
| Pirates vs. Mets (national) | 1:15 p.m. | NBC, Peacock |
| Dodgers vs. Diamondbacks (national) | 8:30 p.m. | NBC, Peacock |
Streaming and Cable Options
Catch games cord-free via Peacock for NBC exclusives, MLB.TV for out-of- market, or DIRECTV bundles for RSNs. Netflix streamed the opener globally, hinting at more innovative partnerships ahead.
TL;DR at Bottom: MLB Opening Day 2026 is mainly on NBC, MLB Network, RSNs, and streams like Peacock/DIRECTV/MLB.TV—check your local listings for team games.
Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.
