Ah, Spring Training. That magical time of year when the air starts to feel a little warmer, the grass a little greener, and the promise of a new baseball season hangs in the air. For us Mets fans, it's a chance to shake off the winter blues and get our first glimpse of the Amazin's in action. But if you're like me, you're probably wondering, 'When can I actually watch them?'
It can be a bit of a puzzle piecing together the Spring Training schedule, especially when it comes to TV coverage. While the full broadcast details for every single game aren't always released months in advance, we can get a pretty good idea of what to expect.
Looking at past years and the information available for upcoming seasons, the New York Mets typically kick off their Grapefruit League schedule in late February. For 2024, for instance, the schedule was announced with an opening game on Saturday, February 24th, against the St. Louis Cardinals in Port St. Lucie. That's usually where the action begins, right in their Florida home base at Clover Park.
Now, about the TV part. Spring Training games, especially those early in the schedule, aren't always broadcast widely. You'll often find that games involving the Mets and their more prominent rivals, like the Yankees or the Phillies, are more likely to get national coverage. Games against teams like the Marlins, Astros, Cardinals, and Nationals are also good candidates for broadcast, either on regional sports networks or through MLB.TV's streaming service.
Remember that classic rivalry? The Mets and Yankees are set to face off in Spring Training, and those matchups are almost always a big draw for TV. Dates for these games are usually highlighted, and you can bet they'll be looking for a broadcast slot.
It's also worth noting that the schedule is always subject to change. Weather can play a role, and sometimes game times or broadcast plans get adjusted. So, while it's great to have a general idea, it's always a good practice to check the official Mets website or reliable sports news outlets closer to the dates for the most up-to-date information on TV listings and game times.
For those really eager to catch every pitch, MLB.TV is often your best bet for Spring Training. While not every game might be televised locally, many are streamed through the service, giving you access to a wider range of games than you might find on traditional TV channels. Keep an eye out for announcements regarding which games will be televised or streamed, and you'll be all set to soak in the early-season excitement from the comfort of your own home.
