The excitement of Major League Baseball is back, and so is Apple TV+ with its fourth season of "Friday Night Baseball." This year, the streaming platform is set to deliver thrilling doubleheaders every week, starting with a highly anticipated matchup on March 28, 2025, featuring the Baltimore Orioles at the Toronto Blue Jays and the New York Mets at the Houston Astros.
The season opener at Rogers Centre is already generating buzz, thanks in large part to the Orioles' explosive performance on Opening Day. Adley Rutschman led the charge, smashing two home runs in a stunning 12-2 victory against the Blue Jays, setting a new franchise record for the most home runs in a season opener. With a lineup that remains formidable even without the injured Gunnar Henderson, the Orioles are looking to carry that momentum into their clash with the Blue Jays.
As for the Blue Jays, they are eager to bounce back after a disappointing start. Toronto will send ace Kevin Gausman to the mound, while the Orioles will introduce veteran Charlie Morton for his debut. Fans are keen to see how the Blue Jays' lineup, bolstered by Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and newcomer Anthony Santander, will respond against a tough Orioles pitching staff.
Meanwhile, the Mets will face the Astros in the second game of the doubleheader. New York's Juan Soto, who made his Mets debut on Opening Day, is looking to find his groove after a mixed performance that included a hit, two walks, and a crucial strikeout that ended the game against Houston. Soto's matchup against Astros closer Josh Hader promises to be a highlight of the night.
With the MLB's partnership with Apple continuing into 2025, "Friday Night Baseball" is set to be a staple for fans. The games will stream exclusively on Apple TV+, free from local broadcast restrictions, allowing fans across the country to tune in without the usual barriers. This accessibility is a boon for many, but it has also sparked frustration among fans who are unable to watch the games at their local bars, which often do not carry the streaming service.
One frustrated fan expressed their dissatisfaction, stating, "I pay good money to watch my Jays on cable TV. So when the MLB sold the Friday night rights to the Apple TV network, I was very upset. I’ve watched a few of the free streaming episodes, and in conclusion… it’s bad and I can’t watch it anymore." This sentiment echoes the feelings of many fans who are concerned about the shift towards streaming and the potential impact on the viewing experience.
Despite the mixed reactions, the allure of live baseball is undeniable. Fans are eager to gather, whether at home or at local establishments, to cheer on their teams. The anticipation of the Orioles and Blue Jays matchup is heightened by the recent performances of both teams, setting the stage for what promises to be an electrifying evening.
For those looking to catch the action, the games are scheduled to begin at 4:07 p.m. PT/7:07 p.m. ET for the Orioles vs. Blue Jays, followed by the Mets vs. Astros at 5:10 p.m. PT/8:10 p.m. ET. Apple TV+ offers a free trial for new subscribers, followed by a monthly fee of $9.99, making it accessible for fans eager to witness the action.
As the season progresses, fans can expect a packed schedule featuring more exciting matchups. The Friday Night Baseball schedule extends through June 2025, with matchups that include the Los Angeles Dodgers at the Philadelphia Phillies and the Tampa Bay Rays at the Texas Rangers, among others.
In a time when the landscape of sports broadcasting is rapidly changing, the return of "Friday Night Baseball" on Apple TV+ is a significant development. As the MLB navigates this new era, fans will be watching closely to see how this partnership evolves and what it means for the future of baseball viewing.
In conclusion, the 2025 MLB season is off to a thrilling start, and the return of "Friday Night Baseball" promises to deliver excitement each week. With the Orioles and Blue Jays kicking things off, fans are in for a treat as they settle in to enjoy America's pastime.
