When Does MLB Season Start? 2022 Opening Day, Schedule and Important Dates

In response to the resumption of normal baseball activities and the ending of the offseason lockout, we've seen a fast and furious free-agency push as teams prepare their Opening Day rosters. The Atlanta Braves made a big splash with their decision to cement Matt Olson at first base (via trade) instead of Freddie Freeman, and the New York Mets continued spending freely.

Both the MLB and player's union were not able to finish their lockout negotiations before commissioner Rob Manfred announced an official delay of the season start. But, what does this mean for Opening Day?

Here's everything you need to know about the 2022 MLB schedule as baseball action heats up.

When Does 2022 MLB Season Start?

Pitchers and catchers reported to their respective spring training camps just days after the lockout ended. This was a welcome sight as the annual start to another campaign. It's a quick ramping up before Opening Day.

When is MLB Opening Day 2022?

Opening Day is scheduled for Thursday, April 7. Sixteen teams will kick off the new season on April 7 with the remaining 14 start their schedules on April 8.

Thursday, April 7

• White Sox vs Royals
• Red Sox vs Yankees
• Mariners vs Twins
• Pirates vs Cardinals
• Mets vs Nationals
• Reds vs Braves
• Brewers vs Cubs
• Astros vs Angels
• Padres vs Diamondbacks

Friday, April 8

*Bolded game indicates at least one of the teams is making their season debut on April 8.

• White Sox vs Tigers
• Brewers vs Cubs
• Athletics vs Phillies
• Orioles vs Rays
• Dodgers vs Rockies
• Marlins vs Giants
• Mets vs Nationals
• Rangers vs Blue Jays
• Reds vs Braves
• Guardians vs Royals
• Astros vs Angels
• Padres vs Diamondbacks

MLB Opening Day

The classic rivalry between the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees will be the first MLB game played in 2022. That's set for a 1:05 p.m. EST start on April 7.

2022 MLB Spring Training

Prior to Opening Day, MLB teams will play an abbreviated spring training. Spring Training kicks off on Thursday, March 17 while teams will play at least 17 or 18 games.

2022 MLB Important Dates

- March 17: First day of Spring Training games
- April 7: Opening Day for 2022 season
- April 15: Jackie Robinson Day
- June 2: Lou Gehrig Day
- July 15-19: All-Star Week
- July 18: Home Run Derby
- July 19: All-Star Game
- Aug. 11: Field of Dreams Game (Cubs vs Reds in Dyersville, IA)
- Aug. 21: Little League Classic (Red Sox vs Orioles in Williamsport, PA)
- Sept. 15: Roberto Clemente Day

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