Opening Day has arrived in Queens, and it carries more weight than usual.
Mar 26, 2026; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets manager Carlos Mendoza (64) speaks at a press conference before his team’s opening day game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images | Brad Penner-Imagn Images
After a winter filled with major roster changes, the New York Mets step into 2026 looking like a completely reimagined team. With fresh faces across the lineup and renewed expectations, all eyes turn to Citi Field for what could be the beginning of something significant.
But first, fans need to know where—and how—to watch it all unfold.
Game details set the stage for a new chapter
Sep 21, 2025; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets outfielder Juan Soto (22) rounds the bases after hitting a double against the Washington Nationals during the third inning at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images | John Jones-Imagn Images
The Mets open their season at home against the Pittsburgh Pirates, with first pitch scheduled for 1:15 p.m. ET.
Historically, Opening Day has been kind to New York. Since 1962, the franchise has posted one of the best records in baseball on opening day, a reminder that this moment often sets the tone for what’s to come.
This year, the stakes feel a little higher.
A national spotlight returns in a big way
This isn’t just another broadcast.
For the first time in 25 years, Major League Baseball returns to NBC, giving the Mets a national platform to kick off their season. The game will also stream on Peacock, marking the beginning of a new media partnership that will carry into the postseason.
Coverage begins an hour before first pitch, with a pregame show broadcast live from Citi Field.
The broadcast team brings familiarity and experience, combining veteran play-by-play with former players who understand both sides of the matchup.
Radio coverage keeps a familiar voice in the booth
For fans tuning in by radio, the Mets’ broadcast remains anchored by a trusted presence.
WCBS 880 continues as the team’s official radio partner, with longtime voice Howie Rose calling what will be his final season. His presence adds a layer of nostalgia to an otherwise forward-looking team.
A dramatically different lineup takes the field
The most striking difference from last year won’t be the uniforms—it will be the names.
The Mets debut several major additions, including Bo Bichette, Luis Robert Jr., Marcus Semien, and Jorge Polanco. It’s a reshaped lineup designed to push the team back into contention immediately.
At the same time, familiar faces like Francisco Lindor and Juan Soto remain central to the team’s identity.
There’s also a glimpse of the future.
Top prospect Carson Benge earns the Opening Day start in right field after an impressive spring, signaling the organization’s willingness to trust young talent early.
A marquee pitching matchup adds intrigue
On the mound, the Mets turn to Freddy Peralta, another key offseason addition making his team debut.
He’ll face one of the toughest possible challenges right away—reigning NL Cy Young winner Paul Skenes.
It’s a matchup that brings immediate intensity to a season opener already packed with storylines.
More than just a first game
Opening Day always carries meaning, but this one feels different.
Between the national spotlight, the influx of new talent, and the expectations surrounding the roster, the Mets aren’t just starting a season—they’re introducing a new identity.
And for fans watching, however they choose to tune in, this is one game that feels too important to miss.
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