“Friday Night Baseball” on Apple TV is back for 2026! This week's slate features a rematch of the famed 1986 World Series and a battle between two NL teams with a playoff history that could potentially add another chapter in October.
Red Sox at Mets, 7:50 p.m. (WATCH HERE)
It's been nearly 40 years since the Red Sox and Mets went the distance in the thrilling 1986 World Series, but any matchup between the teams instantly conjures still-vivid memories for many fans on both sides. There's not quite as much at stake for Boston (43-48) and New York (40-54) in this series, but there are still interesting storylines to follow -- starting with Boston righty Sonny Gray (10-1, 2.61 ERA), who looks to be among the more coveted arms at this year's Trade Deadline. Gray's 10 wins are most in the AL and he's allowed a total of two runs over his past three starts while averaging nine strikeouts per game. The Sox have won six straight games, though, so perhaps it's time to pump the brakes (for now) on the Gray trade talk. For the Mets, NL Rookie of the Year contender Nolan McLean (6-5, 3.73 ERA) will toe the rubber, coming off a strong outing against the Braves in which he allowed two earned runs over six innings.
Braves at Cardinals, 8:15 p.m. (WATCH HERE)
The Braves (54-38) expected to be in playoff contention this season, despite missing the postseason after a disappointing and injury-riddled 2025. The Cardinals (48-44) seemed to be more of a long-shot heading into the season, yet they find themselves just three games back of a Wild Card spot entering Friday. And speaking of the playoffs, the two teams have a history of October showdowns. Since 1982, they've met five times, with St. Louis advancing all but once. It's possible they could meet again this season, meaning this series could provide a glimpse of what to expect. On the mound for Atlanta will be ace All-Star lefty Chris Sale (9-6, 2.27 ERA), who always gives hitters a tough at-bat. The Cardinals will counter with righty Kyle Leahy (7-4, 3.86 ERA), who's coming off five scoreless innings against the Cubs on July 4.
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With MLB and Apple continuing their partnership in 2026, Apple TV will once again be bringing baseball fans a weekly Friday night doubleheader. “Friday Night Baseball,” which includes live pre- and postgame shows, will stream exclusively on Apple TV and be free from local broadcast restrictions.
How can I watch?
Fans with an Apple TV subscription can access “Friday Night Baseball” through the Apple TV app by choosing any of these three options:
- Launch the Apple TV app and select the game directly from there.
- From the MLB.TV app, tap on Apple TV Game to be redirected to the Apple TV app (where available).
- Visit https://tv.apple.com/ and log in with or create an Apple ID.
Do I need to pay to watch live games on Apple TV?
Yes. An Apple TV subscription is required to view live games.
Do I need an Apple account to watch the games?
Yes. You need to have an Apple ID. Your Apple ID is the account you use across all your Apple devices, including your iPhone. Learn how to create a new Apple ID here.
How do I sign in to watch the games on Apple TV?
Log in with your Apple ID. Learn how to watch Friday Night Baseball here.
On what devices can I watch the games?
See all the ways to watch Apple TV here.
What if I have a question about Apple TV?
If you have any questions regarding your account, subscription or other issues, click here.