Baseball · MLB · Updated Nov 2, 2026

MLB Opening Day 2027: Date, Schedule & What to Know

MLB has scheduled the earliest Opening Day in its history. Here are the official dates, how the first week works, the labor deadline that could change everything, and how to get ready.

MLB released its 2027 regular-season schedule on July 16, 2026. The season opens with a single game on Wednesday, March 24, 2027, followed by a traditional Opening Day of 14 games on Thursday, March 25.

Fans fill a Major League ballpark on game day
Photo: Ryan Dickey, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Baseball
Mar 24–25, 2027
Event
MLB Opening Day 2027
Dates
Mar 24–25, 2027 · Opening Night Wed., Mar. 24 · 14 games Thu., Mar. 25
Venue
MLB ballparks
Location
USA
Organizer
MLB

MLB's labor contract expires Dec. 1, 2026. The schedule could change if a new deal is not reached in time.

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Checked against the official source (mlb.com) on November 2, 2026. Schedules can change, so confirm before you travel.

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When is MLB Opening Day 2027?

There are three dates to know:

  • Opening Night: Wednesday, March 24, 2027. One game, streamed on Netflix. MLB has not yet named the two teams.
  • Traditional Opening Day: Thursday, March 25, 2027. 14 games, the earliest traditional Opening Day in Major League history (not counting special season openers played abroad).
  • First full slate: Saturday, March 27, 2027. All 30 teams play.
MLB Opening Day 2027 dates graphic

The regular season is scheduled to end on Sunday, September 26, 2027. For your team's exact opponent and first pitch time, check its schedule on MLB.com, as clubs publish start times separately.

The labor deadline: could Opening Day move?

Yes, it could. MLB's collective bargaining agreement with the players expires on December 1, 2026. If the two sides have not reached a new deal by then, a lockout is possible, and a long one could delay Spring Training and Opening Day, as happened in 2022 when the season started about a week late.

Because no labor deal is in place for 2027, MLB has not scheduled any international games for next season. We will update this page as soon as there is news. If you are planning travel for Opening Day, book refundable options until the labor situation is settled.

Key dates on the road to Opening Day

  • December 1, 2026: current labor agreement expires.
  • February 19, 2027: Spring Training games begin, with all 30 clubs in action in Arizona (Cactus League) and Florida (Grapefruit League).
  • March 24, 2027: Opening Night.
  • March 25, 2027: traditional Opening Day.
  • July 13, 2027: All-Star Game at Wrigley Field. See our MLB All-Star Game 2027 guide.

Why Opening Day matters

Opening Day is baseball's unofficial holiday: sold-out ballparks, pregame ceremonies, flyovers and the first chance to see a team's new roster. It is also the moment the new season of youth and rec baseball kicks off for many families, as Little League and travel teams start spring practice around the same time.

Going to an Opening Day game?

Late March can be cold at northern ballparks, so dress in layers and bring a blanket or a cushioned seat for metal bleachers. Check your ballpark's bag policy before you go, as most MLB parks limit bag size. A stadium seat makes a long day far more comfortable, and a cap and baseball sunglasses help for day games.

Getting ready for baseball season?

Opening Day is the start of spring baseball for players too. These are our most useful guides for the season ahead.

Baseball gloves for adultsFor rec leagues, softball crossovers and backyard catch.Read the guide →Youth baseball glovesThe right glove size for ages 5 to 12.Read the guide →Batting glovesBetter grip and fewer blisters in cold spring weather.Read the guide →Baseball bats by ageLength and weight for every age, plus league rules.Read the guide →Baseball socksHigh socks and team colors for game day.Read the guide →Swing trainersPractice at home before the first pitch.Read the guide →

More baseball events coming up

See the full sports calendar →

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Frequently asked questions

What day is MLB Opening Day 2027?

Opening Night is Wednesday, March 24, 2027, with one game. The traditional Opening Day, with 14 games, is Thursday, March 25, 2027.

Is 2027 the earliest Opening Day ever?

Yes. MLB says March 25 is the earliest traditional Opening Day in Major League history, excluding special season openers played abroad.

Who plays on Opening Night 2027?

MLB has not announced the teams yet. The game will be streamed on Netflix.

Could a lockout delay Opening Day 2027?

It could. The labor agreement expires December 1, 2026. If a new deal is not reached in time, Spring Training and Opening Day could be pushed back.

When does MLB Spring Training 2027 start?

Spring Training games begin Friday, February 19, 2027, with all 30 clubs playing.

When does the 2027 MLB regular season end?

The regular season is scheduled to end on Sunday, September 26, 2027.

Dates and venues are checked against the official organizer and may change. We update this page when they do. Some links on this page go to our buying guides, which may earn us a commission at no extra cost to you. How this works.