Major League Baseball Returns to NBC and Peacock: What to Expect in 2026

Major League Baseball is stepping back into the spotlight as it returns to NBC and Peacock in a significant way this year. The full schedule for the 2026 season promises exciting matchups and thrilling moments, kicking off with an Opening Day doubleheader on March 26 that fans won’t want to miss.

Opening Day Excitement

The season begins on March 26 with a lineup that features two highly anticipated matchups. At 1 p.m. ET, the Pittsburgh Pirates, led by 2025 NL Cy Young Award winner Paul Skenes, will clash with the New York Mets, featuring star Juan Soto. Later that evening, fans can tune in at 8 p.m. ET to watch the Los Angeles Dodgers raise their World Series championship banner against the Arizona Diamondbacks, marking a dazzling start to the season.

A Robust Primetime Schedule

The 2026 NBC Sports MLB schedule boasts 27 primetime games across both NBC and Peacock. This includes a blend of Sunday Night Baseball and special holiday events. Additionally, the network will air 34 afternoon games, ensuring baseball fans receive plenty of action throughout the week. Notably, the MLB Sunday Leadoff games will kickstart the day on Peacock, providing a fresh and lively atmosphere for fans across the country.

Special Event: “Star-Spangled Sunday”

Mark your calendars for July 5, when NBC will showcase “Star-Spangled Sunday.” This event will feature all 15 MLB games broadcast nationally, uniting baseball fans and offering a special celebration of America’s pastime on one of the country’s festive days. This day promises not only thrilling matchups but also an opportunity to engage with the sport on a grand scale.

A Dynamic Programming Shift

With the addition of Sunday Night Baseball to NBC’s primetime lineup, the network achieves a broadcast first by featuring year-round sports programming on Sunday evenings. This aligns perfectly with the popular Sunday Night Football and Sunday Night Basketball, creating a comprehensive sports entertainment experience. Baseball fans can now look forward to a regular weekly appointment with America’s favorite pastime.

Key Matchups Highlighted

The schedule also lays out a series of crucial games that could shape the postseason landscape. The matchup between the Cleveland Guardians and Seattle Mariners on March 29 at 7 p.m. ET marks the official debut of Sunday Night Baseball on Peacock. Fans can expect to see frequent appearances from powerhouse teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers, Boston Red Sox, and San Diego Padres throughout the season. Traditional rivalries will take center stage, including classic matchups such as:

• Diamondbacks vs. Dodgers (March 26)
• Yankees vs. Red Sox (June 28)
• Cubs vs. Cardinals (May 31)

Such matchups are sure to draw significant attention, rekindling the competitive spirit and camaraderie among fans.

Future Stars Spotlighted

In addition to exciting games, NBC and Peacock will showcase the next generation of MLB talent during early first-round coverage of the MLB Draft on July 11, paired with the All-Star Futures Game on July 12. This dual presentation will provide fans a sneak peek into the future of the league, igniting conversations about who to watch and what promising players could be the next big stars.

Complete Schedule

The 2026 Sunday Night Baseball on NBC & Peacock schedule is packed with action, offering a chance to catch all the key games. From early-season matchups to late-season showdowns, the following dates and opponents highlight the exciting possibilities:

• March 26: Pirates at Mets (1 p.m.), Diamondbacks at Dodgers (8 p.m.)
• March 29: Guardians at Mariners (7 p.m.)
• April 5: Cardinals at Tigers (7 p.m.)
• June 28: Yankees at Red Sox (7 p.m.)
• July 5: Mets at Braves (12:30 p.m.); Padres at Dodgers (7 p.m.)

Each game provides an opportunity for thrilling baseball narratives, where heroes are born and historic moments unfold.

Sunday Leadoff Events

The Sunday Leadoff schedule is similarly packed, designed to offer exciting matchups throughout the season:

• May 3: Blue Jays at Twins (12:30 p.m.)
• May 10: Nationals at Marlins (Noon)
• July 5: Mets at Braves (12:30 p.m.)

These matchups will kick off the day and offer fans a diverse selection of games to enjoy.

July 5 “Star Spangled Sunday” Schedule

As part of the immersive experience, the July 5 “Star Spangled Sunday” will feature numerous exciting games throughout the day:

• 12:30 p.m.: Mets at Braves
• 7 p.m.: Padres at Dodgers

This day encapsulates the spirit of baseball, serving as a festive presentation of America’s beloved pastime.

With a well-rounded and thrilling schedule, Major League Baseball’s return to NBC and Peacock is set to create memorable moments for fans across the globe. Whether you’re a die-hard supporter or new to the sport, there’s something for everyone in the upcoming season.