So, you’re looking for the game. You've got the itch for pinstripes, the sound of the crack of the bat, and that specific Bronx energy. I get it. But here is the reality check: it’s January 16, 2026.
If you click over to the YES Network or check the ESPN schedule right now, you aren't going to find a live Yankees game. Honestly, nobody is playing. The stadium is currently tucked under a layer of New York winter, and the players are mostly down in Florida or working out at private facilities. We are deep in the "hot stove" season, which means the only thing hitting the scoreboard right now is trade rumors and contract drama.
When do the Yankees actually play?
If you're asking what channel are the yankees playing today because you're ready to set your DVR, you have to look ahead to March. The 2026 season is actually going to start earlier than usual. Mark your calendar for Wednesday, March 25, 2026.
The Yankees are opening the season on the road against the San Francisco Giants. It’s a standalone "Opening Night" game. Because it’s a big national event, that game is actually slated for Netflix. Yeah, you read 그 right. MLB is leaning harder into streaming this year.
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After that opening night, the rest of the league kicks off on March 26. For the Yankees, that usually means returning to their home on the YES Network for local fans or MLB.tv for those of us living outside the New York market.
Where to watch the Yankees in 2026
The broadcast landscape is getting kinda messy. You can't just rely on one channel anymore. In 2026, the Yankees' TV schedule is split across a few different platforms:
- YES Network: This is still the primary home. If it’s a Tuesday night game against the Rays, it’s probably here.
- Amazon Prime Video: They usually keep their Friday night exclusive games.
- Netflix: As mentioned, they’ve snagged the big Opening Night matchup.
- NBC and Peacock: Major League Baseball just returned to NBC in a big way for 2026. They’ve got a "Star-Spangled Sunday" showcase and several primetime games.
- ESPN: Sunday Night Baseball isn't going anywhere.
Why everyone is talking about the Yankees today anyway
Even though there isn't a game on TV, the Yankees are dominating the news cycle today. If you've been following the scrolls, the front office just pulled off a major trade. They acquired left-hander Ryan Weathers from the Miami Marlins.
Why does this matter? Because the rotation is a mess. Gerrit Cole is recovering from Tommy John surgery, and Carlos Rodón is also sidelined. Weathers, whose dad David actually played for the Yankees back in the 90s, is basically the "break glass in case of emergency" starter for the beginning of the 2026 season.
There are also persistent rumors today about the team chasing Freddy Peralta from the Brewers and trying to finalize a deal with Cody Bellinger. So, while you can't watch them play a game, you can certainly watch the front office sweat.
What about Spring Training?
If you can't wait until March 25, Spring Training is your next best bet. Pitchers and catchers are scheduled to report in about four weeks, around February 11-12.
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The first televised Spring Training games usually pop up on the YES Network in late February. These games are great for seeing the prospects, though you'll see a lot of "non-roster invitees" wearing numbers like 94. It’s relaxed baseball, but it’s still baseball.
How to stay ready for Opening Day
Since you can't tune into a game today, here is what you should actually do to prepare for the 2026 season:
- Check your subscriptions. If you cancelled your YES Network app or MLB.tv over the winter, wait until March to re-up so you don't waste money.
- Verify your Netflix login. Since the season opener is exclusive to Netflix this year, make sure you aren't scrambling for a password five minutes before first pitch on March 25.
- Watch the injury reports. Keep an eye on the rehab progress for Gerrit Cole. The "channel" he'll be on won't matter if he isn't on the mound.
- Download a printable schedule. The 2026 preliminary schedule is already out on MLB.com. Grab the PDF so you know which West Coast trips are going to keep you up until 1:00 AM.
The pinstripes will be back on your screen soon enough. For now, we just have to survive the rest of the winter and the endless trade speculation.