Spring Training 2026 Schedule Announced with Key Matchups

Major League Baseball's 2026 Spring Training schedule has been officially announced, setting the stage for an exciting lead-up to the new season. The schedule kicks off on February 20, with seven games highlighted by a matchup between the New York Yankees and Baltimore Orioles in Sarasota, Florida, as well as the Chicago Cubs taking on the Chicago White Sox at Sloan Park in Mesa, Arizona. According to ESPN, other notable games on the first day include the Arizona Diamondbacks facing the Colorado Rockies and the San Diego Padres squaring off against the Seattle Mariners. The World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers are set to begin their spring training on February 21 against the Los Angeles Angels in Tempe, Arizona.

The schedule also features a unique aspect this year, with 14 games planned on March 3 and 4, where MLB teams will face national teams preparing for the World Baseball Classic. The United States will play against the San Francisco Giants on March 3 and the Colorado Rockies the following day, both at spring training facilities in Scottsdale. This exciting twist adds a layer of international competition as players ramp up for the World Baseball Classic, which begins on March 4 in Tokyo, with North American games starting on March 6 in various venues including San Juan, Houston, and Miami.

The Chicago Sun-Times reports that the White Sox will play 15 games at their spring training home, Camelback Ranch, starting with their crosstown rivalry matchup against the Cubs. They will meet again in two more games, one on March 1 and another on March 13. Meanwhile, the Cubs will also host Team Italy in an exhibition game on March 3, which will be a rare opportunity for fans to see international competition alongside MLB teams. The Cubs conclude their spring training with two home games against the Yankees on March 23 and 24, as the Yankees prepare to open their regular season in San Francisco on March 26.

Additionally, the Philadelphia Phillies have announced their own schedule, which includes a game against Team Canada on March 4 at BayCare Ballpark in Clearwater. They will kick off their Grapefruit League play on February 21 against the Toronto Blue Jays. The Phillies' schedule reflects a critical moment for the team, as they look to rebound from past postseason disappointments and face uncertainty regarding several key players who will be free agents.

As spring training approaches, it's clear that fans can expect thrilling matchups and a heightened sense of anticipation for the upcoming MLB season. The blend of traditional rivalries and international competition makes for an intriguing spring training slate that will be closely followed by teams and supporters alike.