Major League Baseball (MLB) has announced its full 2027 season schedule, marking the earliest Opening Day in baseball history (excluding international games) on March 24, 2027. The season will begin with a single game between two teams yet to be determined. This change moves the start from the traditional late March to early April timeframe.

The 2027 schedule also includes the Wrigley Field All-Star Game. Following Netflix's hosting of the recent Home Run Derby—which experienced a 20-plus-year low in ratings—Netflix is set to host the exclusive Opening Night game as well. This decision has raised concerns about attracting a large audience given the derby's mediocre viewership.

The early start compresses the timeline for labor negotiations between players and owners, leaving one less week to resolve ongoing salary cap disagreements before games might be delayed or canceled. Additionally, players will require some form of spring training to be prepared for the regular season starting so early.

There is speculation about the future of the game, especially if small-market teams like the Milwaukee Brewers or Miami Marlins win the 2026 World Series, potentially fueling owners' claims that the game is broken.

In related news, Chicago Cubs player Pete Crow-Armstrong was photographed reacting after being hit by a pitch during a May 17, 2026 game in Chicago, Illinois.

A notable comment from the coverage states, "Wrigleyville is fun Monday through Sunday," highlighting the excitement surrounding the Wrigley Field events.

Sources