MLB Kicks Off on NBC Sports with Thursday Doubleheader and Sunday Night Debut
Major League Baseball (MLB) officially returns to NBC Sports this week with an exciting lineup, featuring a Thursday doubleheader on Opening Day. On March 26, 2026, fans can catch two notable matchups featuring top players and compelling storylines.
MLB’s Thrilling Thursday Doubleheader
The MLB kicks off on NBC Sports with two exceptional games. At 1 p.m. ET, the reigning National League Cy Young Award winner, Paul Skenes, leads the Pittsburgh Pirates as they visit the New York Mets, featuring star outfielder Juan Soto at Citi Field. This matchup promises fierce competition and outstanding performances.
Play-by-play coverage for the Pirates-Mets game will be provided by Matt Vasgersian, along with analysts Al Leiter and Neil Walker.
Prime Time Action with Dodgers vs. Diamondbacks
Later in the day, at 8 p.m. ET, MLB delivers its only primetime game of the Opening Day when the Los Angeles Dodgers, led by Shohei Ohtani, host the Arizona Diamondbacks and rookie sensation Corbin Carroll. Jason Benetti will handle play-by-play for this game, supported by analysts Luis Gonzalez and Orel Hershiser.
Both games will include pregame shows featuring field reports. Ahmed Fareed will host the Pirates-Mets coverage, while Bob Costas will be at Dodger Stadium for the Dodgers’ championship banner raising.
Upcoming Sunday Night Baseball
Following the Thursday doubleheader, Sunday Night Baseball debuts on March 29 at 7 p.m. ET. This anticipated game showcases the Cleveland Guardians, led by seven-time All-Star Jose Ramirez, visiting the Seattle Mariners, featuring 2025 MLB home run leader Cal Raleigh.
This Sunday’s broadcast team includes Benetti, alongside analysts Rick Manning and Ryan Rowland-Smith. Both teams competed fiercely in 2025, capturing AL division titles. The pregame show for the Guardians-Mariners matchup will also be hosted by Ahmed Fareed.
Peacock MLB Hub Debuts
In addition to these games, Peacock enhances the viewing experience with its dedicated MLB Hub. This platform will serve as a comprehensive destination for fans, featuring live games, team hubs, and highlights.
Peacock Game of the Day
- March 26: Los Angeles Angels at Houston Astros at 4:10 p.m. ET
- March 27: Kansas City Royals at Atlanta Braves at 7:15 p.m. ET
- March 28: Tampa Bay Rays at St. Louis Cardinals at 2:15 p.m. ET
- March 29: Texas Rangers at Philadelphia Phillies at 1:35 p.m. ET
- March 31: Pittsburgh Pirates at Cincinnati Reds at 6:40 p.m. ET
- April 1: Minnesota Twins at Kansas City Royals at 7:40 p.m. ET
The Peacock “Game of the Day” feature allows fans to immerse themselves in an out-of-market game streamed nationally each day, enhancing accessibility and excitement throughout the MLB season.
NBC Sports’ Legacy in Baseball
NBC Sports has a rich history with Major League Baseball, having televised the first-ever MLB game in 1939. The network has since covered numerous iconic baseball moments, including 39 World Series and multiple All-Star Games, solidifying its longstanding relationship with the sport.
With the start of this new MLB season, fans can look forward to thrilling games, star players, and enhanced viewing experiences through NBC Sports and Peacock.
