If you’re waking up in the Valley or anywhere across the desert today, January 18, 2026, and frantically searching for what time does the Diamondbacks game start today, I’ve got some news that might be a bit of a bummer but is actually pretty standard for this time of year.
There is no Arizona Diamondbacks game today.
Honestly, the boys aren’t even in the dugout yet. We are currently in that weird, quiet pocket of the sports calendar where the NFL playoffs are hogging all the oxygen and Chase Field is basically a giant, air-conditioned warehouse waiting for the grass to be prepped. If you see people wearing Sedona Red today, they’re just showing off their loyalty or maybe heading to a Suns game.
When do the D-backs actually start playing?
Even though there’s no action today, the wait is almost over. The Cactus League is right around the corner. For those of us who live for the sound of a wood bat connecting with a fastball, the real countdown begins next month.
The Diamondbacks officially kick off their 2026 Spring Training schedule on Friday, February 20. They’ll be taking on the Colorado Rockies at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick. That game is scheduled for a 1:10 PM MST first pitch. It’s that classic Arizona afternoon vibe—sunscreen, overpriced hot dogs, and a first look at the new roster depth.
If you’re looking for the first "true" home game at Salt River Fields where the D-backs are the primary host, that happens the very next day, Saturday, February 21, also at 1:10 PM.
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The 2026 Regular Season Countdown
If you don't care about the exhibition games and just want the high-stakes drama, you’ve got a longer wait.
The 2026 MLB regular season is going to be historic. It’s the earliest traditional Opening Day in the history of the league. Arizona starts their quest for another NL West title on Thursday, March 26.
They aren’t at home, though. They’re heading to the West Coast to face the reigning World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers. That game is going to be a primetime spectacle. NBC and Peacock have the exclusive rights for that one, and the first pitch is set for 8:00 PM ET (5:00 PM MST).
Why everyone is asking about the Diamondbacks right now
You might wonder why people are so hyped this early in January. It’s mostly because of the blockbuster news that hit just a couple of days ago. The trade for Nolan Arenado has absolutely set the fan base on fire. People are checking schedules because they want to know when they can see that new infield defense in person.
Winning the Nolan Arenado sweepstakes over division rivals has changed the math for the D-backs. Analysts like Alex D'Agostino are already pointing out that Arizona's World Series odds have shifted significantly. The desert is officially a baseball town again, even in the dead of winter.
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Key Dates for Your Calendar
Since you can't watch a game today, here is a quick rundown of when you actually need to clear your schedule:
- February 20: Spring Training Opener vs. Rockies (1:10 PM)
- March 3: Special exhibition against WBC Team Mexico (1:10 PM)
- March 23-24: Final exhibition games against Cleveland at Chase Field
- March 26: Official Opening Day at Dodger Stadium (5:00 PM MST)
- March 30: Home Opener at Chase Field vs. Detroit Tigers (7:10 PM MST)
Where to catch the action later this year
When the season finally does get moving, the broadcast landscape looks a little different for 2026. MLB has leaned heavily into streaming, but local fans will still find most games on the usual Diamondbacks regional networks.
However, national games are picking up. NBC and Peacock have already snatched up several D-backs matchups, including a June 14 clash against the Nationals and a June 28 game against the Twins. If you're planning your summer around the team, keep an eye on those Sunday Leadoff slots which usually start around noon.
Tips for Spring Training Fans
If you're planning to head to Scottsdale in February, buy your tickets now. Salt River Fields is one of the top draws in the Cactus League for a reason. It’s beautiful, but it sells out fast, especially for weekend games against the Dodgers or Cubs.
Also, keep in mind that the WBC (World Baseball Classic) exhibition on March 3 is going to be a madhouse. The atmosphere for those games is usually way more intense than a standard spring training game.
So, while the answer to what time does the Diamondbacks game start today is a resounding "it doesn't," the season is closer than it feels. We’re about 33 days away from the first pitch of spring.
For now, grab your tickets for the home opener on March 30 against Detroit. Chase Field is going to be electric when they introduce the 2026 squad, especially with the new faces in the lineup. Keep your eyes on the official MLB app for any last-minute time changes, as TV networks love to flex those marquee matchups at the last second.
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Check the secondary ticket markets if the home opener is already showing limited availability. Vivid Seats and SeatGeek are already showing prices starting around $36 for the first few series of the regular season. If you're a member of the D-backs Advantage program, you should already have your portal access for early bird seating.