So, you're looking for the game. You've got the snacks ready, maybe the Harper jersey is within reach, and you're wondering what time are the phillies on tonight? Well, I’ve got some bad news for your Friday night plans: the Phillies are not playing tonight, January 16, 2026.
If you look outside or at the calendar, it makes sense. It’s mid-January. Philadelphia is currently gripped by the usual winter chill, and Citizens Bank Park is looking more like a giant ice box than a baseball cathedral. We are deep in the "hot stove" season, which, ironically, is the time of year when the actual stove in the kitchen is way more active than any pitcher on a mound.
Baseball is a summer game, a sun-drenched marathon that doesn't really kick off until the frost is long gone. Right now, the only thing the Phillies are "playing" is the waiting game—and the free-agency game.
What Time Are the Phillies on Tonight? (The Short Answer)
Since it is January 16, there is no game. The Phillies are currently in the middle of their offseason.
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Basically, the players are scattered across the country—or the world—doing their own workouts. Some are probably golfing in Scottsdale; others are likely grinding in the gym to make sure their hamstrings don't betray them in June. You won't find them on NBC Sports Philadelphia or MLB.TV tonight unless you’re watching a classic replay of the 2008 World Series (which, honestly, never gets old).
When do the Phillies actually start playing?
The wait isn't that much longer. Pitchers and catchers are scheduled to report to Clearwater, Florida, in just a few weeks. Specifically, the first workout for the battery-mates is set for Wednesday, February 11, 2026.
If you’re counting down the seconds, here is how the immediate future looks:
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- February 11: Pitchers and Catchers report.
- February 16: First full squad workout (when Bryce and the gang officially show up).
- February 21: The first Spring Training game against the Toronto Blue Jays in Dunedin.
Why the "What Time" Question is Trending Right Now
You aren't the only one confused. Every year around mid-January, there's a spike in people asking what time are the phillies on tonight. Part of it is muscle memory. We miss the routine of 7:05 PM starts. Part of it is the sheer chaos of the 2026 offseason news cycle.
Just today, January 16, the rumor mill is absolutely exploding. Reports from Bob Nightengale and Ken Rosenthal have linked the Phillies heavily to Bo Bichette. Earlier today, there was a whirlwind of "will-they-won't-they" regarding a massive $200 million deal. Then the Mets reportedly tried to swoop in. It’s enough to make any fan want to turn on the TV just to see if a press conference is happening.
Also, the Phillies just signed a massive international prospect, 17-year-old Francisco Renteria, for $4 million yesterday. When big names start flying around, fans naturally want to see the team in action. But for now, the "action" is strictly occurring in the front office of Dave Dombrowski.
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How to Get Your Phillies Fix Tonight
Since you can't watch a live game, what do you do?
- Check the Transaction Wire: Today is a huge day for arbitration and rumors. The Phils recently settled with guys like Alec Bohm, Bryson Stott, and Brandon Marsh to avoid arbitration.
- Podcasts and Local Radio: 94WIP or various Phillies podcasts (like High Hopes) are currently dissecting the Bo Bichette rumors. That's the closest thing to "game coverage" you'll get tonight.
- Rewatch the 2025 Highlights: If you’re feeling nostalgic, YouTube is your friend.
- Plan Your Trip to Clearwater: If you really can't wait, the Spring Training schedule is already out. The home opener at BayCare Ballpark is February 22 against the Pirates at 1:05 PM.
Looking Ahead: Opening Day 2026
If you want to mark your calendar for the real "what time are they on" moment, it’s March 26, 2026.
The Phillies will open the regular season at home against the Texas Rangers. It’s a 3:05 PM start at Citizens Bank Park. It’s also a historic year for Philly, as the city prepares to host the 2026 All-Star Game in July to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States.
So, while the answer to what time are the phillies on tonight is "not at all," the road to the 2026 season is officially paved. We're just 36 days away from seeing them take the field in Florida.
Next Steps for Fans:
- Check the official MLB site or the Phillies' social media handles later tonight for any breaking news on the Bo Bichette signing.
- If you're planning to attend a game this year, remember that tickets for the home opener against the Rangers on March 26 are already seeing high demand—grab them sooner rather than later.