Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve | Erik Williams-Imagn Images
Astros fans looking to bounce back after Opening Day will need to adjust—because Friday night won’t feel routine.
Houston’s matchup against the Los Angeles Angels isn’t airing on traditional TV. Instead, it’s part of MLB’s ongoing streaming push, landing exclusively on Apple TV+ as part of its “Friday Night Baseball” package.
For many fans, that means a quick change of plans.
Game details and how to watch
The Astros and Angels meet Friday night at Daikin Park, with first pitch scheduled for the evening in Houston.
Coverage begins earlier with a dedicated pregame show, but access comes with a requirement—Apple TV+. Fans without a subscription can still take advantage of a free trial, though a monthly fee applies afterward.
It’s becoming a familiar setup.
This marks another season where Apple holds exclusive rights to select Friday night games, continuing a shift in how baseball is delivered to viewers.
A chance at redemption for Houston
The Astros enter the game with something to prove.
After being shut out in their opener, Houston’s offense will look to reset quickly. The lack of production on Opening Day raised concerns, especially against a division rival that hasn’t been viewed as a major threat in recent years.
Game 2 offers a clean slate.
New faces take center stage on the mound
Houston will hand the ball to Mike Burrows, one of their key offseason additions.
The right-hander impressed during spring training and now gets an early opportunity to make an impact. His performance could set the tone not just for the series, but for how the Astros’ revamped rotation is viewed moving forward.
Across the field, a familiar name awaits.
A reunion matchup adds intrigue
Yusei Kikuchi, a former Astro, will start for the Angels.
That familiarity adds another layer to the matchup, especially for a Houston lineup that struggled to generate offense just a day earlier. Adjustments will be necessary if the Astros want to avoid a slow start to the season.
Part of a larger trend in MLB viewing
This isn’t a one-off situation.
Houston will appear in multiple Apple TV+ exclusives this season, part of MLB’s broader effort to expand its streaming footprint. While it creates new viewing options, it also adds complexity for fans used to traditional broadcasts.
For now, the message is simple.
If you want to watch the Astros respond after Opening Day—
you’ll need to look beyond your usual channel.
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