If you’re staring at your TV right now wondering what time is the phillies on tonight, I have some news that might be a little bit of a letdown—but it’s also the perfect time to get your calendar ready.
It is January 17, 2026.
Honestly, as much as we all want to see Bryce Harper crushing homers into the Ashburn Alley seats, there isn't a game tonight. We are currently in the heart of the "dead zone" of the baseball winter. The bats are still in the rack, and the grass at Citizens Bank Park is likely tucked under a layer of frost.
But don't go anywhere. The 2026 season is actually much closer than it feels. We’re basically a few weeks away from the sound of catchers' mitts popping in Clearwater.
When Does the Action Actually Start?
If you were hoping for a game today, you've got about a month to wait until the real preseason energy kicks in. The Phillies are heading back to Florida for their 80th Spring Training in Clearwater, and the schedule is already locked in.
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The first time you can actually watch them play is February 21, 2026. That’s a Saturday. They’ll be taking on the Toronto Blue Jays up in Dunedin. That game is a day game, starting at 1:07 PM ET.
If you’re looking for the first home game at BayCare Ballpark, that happens the very next day, February 22, against the Pittsburgh Pirates at 1:05 PM ET.
The 2026 Regular Season: A Historic Opening Day
This year is kind of a big deal for Philly. Because 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of American independence, the city is basically the center of the baseball universe.
The regular season Opening Day is set for March 26, 2026.
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The Phillies will be opening at home at Citizens Bank Park against the Texas Rangers. Usually, Opening Day is a mid-afternoon affair, tentatively scheduled for 3:05 PM ET, though TV networks sometimes flex those times around as the date gets closer.
Key Dates for Your 2026 Calendar
- February 11: Pitchers and catchers report to Clearwater. (The "real" start of spring).
- February 16: First full squad workout. This is when the vibes truly shift.
- March 4: A special exhibition game against Team Canada as part of the World Baseball Classic lead-up.
- March 26: Opening Day vs. Texas Rangers.
- July 14: The MLB All-Star Game is coming to South Philly.
Why There’s No Game Tonight (And What to Watch Instead)
Since the answer to what time is the phillies on tonight is "not tonight," you might be looking for a local sports fix. Even though the Phils are dormant, the South Philadelphia sports complex is busy.
The Philadelphia Flyers are actually in action today, January 17. They have a matinee game against the New York Rangers at 1:00 PM. If you missed that, you’re likely seeing highlights of the Sixers' game from last night.
Baseball-wise, the "Hot Stove" is where the action is. The front office is currently navigating a wild offseason. Rumors are swirling about the Phillies' interest in Bo Bichette, and there’s the ongoing saga of whether J.T. Realmuto gets a three-year extension.
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Where to Watch When They Return
When the season does start, you’ll be looking for the usual suspects. Most games will be on NBC Sports Philadelphia.
For the national games, keep an eye on:
- FOX/FS1: Usually for those Saturday night "Baseball Night in America" slots.
- ESPN: For Sunday Night Baseball (the Phils are a lock for at least a few of these).
- Apple TV+: For those Friday night doubleheaders that everyone has a love-hate relationship with.
Getting Ready for the 250th Celebration
Since 2026 is such a massive year for Philadelphia, the ticket demand is already looking higher than usual. If you’re planning on hitting a game this summer—especially the All-Star Game in July—you sort of need to start planning now.
The Phillies haven't hosted the All-Star festivities since 1996. It’s the first time it’ll ever be held at Citizens Bank Park.
Next Steps for Phillies Fans:
- Check your local listings for Phillies PHL17 specials or NBC Sports Philadelphia's "Phils Focus" segments to get your fix during the winter.
- If you’re planning a trip to Clearwater, book your flights now. February 22 is the home opener at BayCare Ballpark, and those tickets move fast once the "truck day" hype begins.
- Keep an eye on the official MLB app for the specific start times of the April night games, which usually settle into that 6:40 PM or 7:05 PM window.