Rays vs. Pirates: Your Guide to Friday Night Baseball
An exciting early-season clash is set to unfold as the Tampa Bay Rays take on the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park this Friday. Both teams currently hold first place in their respective divisions, making this a crucial matchup as they look to maintain their momentum. Here’s everything you need to know to tune in and follow the action.
Game Details
- Date: Friday, April 17
- Time: 6:45 p.m. ET
- Location: PNC Park, Pittsburgh
How to Watch
Unfortunately for traditional TV viewers, the Rays vs. Pirates game will not be broadcast on conventional television channels. Instead, baseball fans can enjoy this MLB contest exclusively through Apple TV’s “Friday Night Baseball” package.
Live Stream Options
Here’s how to access the live stream:
- Apple TV: New subscribers can enjoy a free one-week trial. After the trial, a subscription costs $12.99/month.
- Apple TV App: The Apple TV app is available on a wide range of devices, including select smart TVs, Roku devices, Amazon Fire TV, and gaming consoles.
Team Preview
Pittsburgh Pirates
The Pirates are riding high, showcasing a potent offense led by Brandon Lowe, who is quickly becoming a leader in MLB in OPS (.992) and home runs (seven). Oneil Cruz and Ryan O’Hearn are also contributing significantly to Pittsburgh’s offensive success. Bubba Chandler will take the mound for the Pirates, aiming to refine his command after walking 12 batters in 14 innings, but demonstrating an ability to limit damage.
Tampa Bay Rays
Traditionally known for their pitching prowess, the Rays are experiencing a role reversal early in the 2026 season. While their pitching staff currently sits in the bottom third of MLB with a 4.38 ERA, their offense is thriving, ranking sixth in the majors with a .735 team OPS. Nick Martinez is slated to start for Tampa Bay, having allowed only four earned runs in three starts, all via home runs.
Upcoming “Friday Night Baseball” Schedule
Mark your calendars for these upcoming games on Apple TV:
| Date | Game | Time (ET) |
|---|---|---|
| April 24 | Phillies at Braves | 7:15 p.m. |
| April 24 | Cubs at Dodgers | 10:15 p.m. |
| May 1 | Reds at Pirates | 6:45 p.m. |
| May 1 | Royals at Mariners | 9:45 p.m. |
| May 8 | Twins at Guardians | 7:15 p.m. |
| May 8 | Cardinals at Padres | 9:45 p.m. |
| May 15 | Blue Jays at Tigers | 6:45 p.m. |
| May 15 | Yankees at Mets | 7:15 p.m. |
| May 22 | Astros at Cubs | 2:20 p.m. |
| May 22 | Tigers at Orioles | 7:15 p.m. |
| May 29 | Twins at Pirates | 6:45 p.m. |
| May 29 | Phillies at Dodgers | 10:15 p.m. |
| June 5 | Guardians at Rangers | 8:15 p.m. |
| June 5 | Royals at Twins | 8:15 p.m. |
| June 12 | Diamondbacks at Reds | 7:15 p.m. |
| June 12 | Braves at Mets | 7:15 p.m. |
| June 19 | Cardinals at Royals | 8:15 p.m. |
| June 19 | Twins at Diamondbacks | 9:45 p.m. |
| June 26 | Cubs at Brewers | 7:45 p.m. |
| June 26 | Dodgers at Padres | 9:45 p.m. |
Stay up-to-date with the latest MLB news and rumors, view the 2026 MLB schedule and scores, and check the 2026 MLB standings.
