If you're asking are the Baltimore Orioles playing tonight, the short answer is no. Today is Saturday, January 17, 2026. Right now, the O's—along with every other team in Major League Baseball—are firmly in the deep freeze of the offseason. You won't find any orange and black jerseys under the lights at Camden Yards just yet.
But that doesn't mean the warehouse is quiet. Not by a long shot.
The front office is currently deep in the "hot stove" season, likely haggling over arbitration numbers or eyeing remaining free agents to bolster a rotation that fans are always worried about. Honestly, January is more about rumor-mongering and checking Twitter every ten minutes than it is about actual baseball. It’s the time of year when we over-analyze every minor league signing and dream about what "the kids" will do come spring.
When Do the Orioles Actually Take the Field?
While there’s no game tonight, the wait is getting shorter. We are officially about a month away from the first sounds of leather hitting wood down in Sarasota.
The 2026 spring training slate is already locked in. The Orioles are scheduled to report to Ed Smith Stadium in mid-February. Specifically, pitchers and catchers are set to have their first workout on Wednesday, February 11, with the full squad following on Monday, February 16.
👉 See also: NFL Fantasy Pick Em: Why Most Fans Lose Money and How to Actually Win
If you're planning a trip to Florida, the Grapefruit League action kicks off officially on Friday, February 20, 2026. The O’s will be hosting the New York Yankees in Sarasota for that opener. It’s always a packed house for the Yankees, even in February.
Key Dates for the 2026 Preseason
- February 11: Pitchers and Catchers report.
- February 16: First full-squad workout.
- February 20: Spring Training opener vs. Yankees.
- March 3: Special exhibition against the Netherlands (World Baseball Classic tune-up).
The 2026 Regular Season: Opening Day Details
If you’re only interested in the games that count toward the standings, you’ve got a bit more time to wait. Opening Day 2026 is scheduled for Thursday, March 26.
The Orioles will start the quest for an AL East title at home this year. They are hosting the Minnesota Twins at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. There’s nothing quite like a cold March afternoon in Baltimore with a Natty Boh and a Crab Mac n’ Cheese dog.
According to the schedule released by MLB, the opening series against the Twins will be followed by a three-game set against the Texas Rangers. Basically, the O's are staying put for the first week of the season before hitting the road for Pittsburgh in early April.
✨ Don't miss: Inter Miami vs Toronto: What Really Happened in Their Recent Clashes
What’s Happening Right Now in Birdland?
Even though the question "are the Baltimore Orioles playing tonight" yields a "no" on the field, the team is busy with the Birdland Caravan.
This is the annual winter tour where players, coaches, and the mascot "The Bird" travel around Maryland to meet fans. It's actually happening right now. For instance, on January 26, the team is hosting a Q&A at the Senator Theatre with new manager Craig Albernaz and new first baseman Pete Alonso.
Wait—Pete Alonso? Yeah, the "Polar Bear" is officially in Baltimore, which still feels a bit surreal for fans used to the "rebuild" years. This kind of veteran addition is exactly why the hype for the 2026 season is already through the roof.
Upcoming Caravan Events:
- January 23: Flight Night at Guinness Open Gate Brewery (21+ event).
- January 24: Kids Day at Turf Valley Resort and duckpin bowling in Linthicum Heights.
- January 24: Free fan rally at the White Marsh Mall.
Where to Watch the O's in 2026
When the games finally do start, the broadcast situation remains mostly familiar. Most games will be on MASN (Mid-Atlantic Sports Network). However, keep an eye on the national schedule. With the Orioles being a legit contender again, they’ve been getting more love from ESPN’s Sunday Night Baseball and the Fox Saturday afternoon slots.
🔗 Read more: Matthew Berry Positional Rankings: Why They Still Run the Fantasy Industry
For cord-cutters, MLB.TV is still the go-to, provided you aren't in the blackout zone. If you live in Baltimore, you’re still going to need a cable or satellite package that carries MASN, or a streaming service like FuboTV that has finally started playing ball with regional sports networks.
Actionable Steps for Orioles Fans
Since there is no game tonight, here is what you can do to get your fix:
- Grab Caravan Tickets: If you want to meet the players before they head to Florida, check the official Orioles website for Birdland Caravan tickets. The brewery events and theater Q&As usually sell out fast.
- Book Sarasota Travel: If you’re heading to the Grapefruit League, book your flights now. Ed Smith Stadium is one of the best spring training venues, but hotel prices in Sarasota during "Spring Break" season are no joke.
- Check the Promotional Schedule: The team has already teased some 2026 giveaways. There's a beach towel night on June 28 against the Nationals and a "Birdland Hawaiian Shirt" night on July 24.
- Audit Your Wardrobe: It’s been a long winter. Make sure your jerseys still fit and your orange gear is ready for the March 26 home opener.
The 2026 Orioles are shaping up to be one of the most exciting rosters in decades. While the lights are off tonight, the season will be here before you know it.