Baseball League Pursues Transformation of Fourth of July into a Pre-Christmas Celebration
The upcoming Fourth of July in the world of Major League Baseball (MLB) is set to be a spectacle, with a variety of high-profile games and special events planned. The Chiefs-Cowboys game on CBS has a good chance to become the most watched regular season game in U.S. sports history, but baseball fans won't be left wanting.
In 2023, the Fourth of July falls on a Sunday, making it a potential tentpole opportunity for the media partner holding the Sunday Night Baseball rights post-ESPN. The MLB has emphasized creating regular season moments that grab attention beyond local rooting interest, and this year's Fourth of July slate is no exception.
The New York Yankees and Mets will kick off a crosstown series on Friday, with ESPN providing live coverage from New York, tied to Coney Island's Hot Dog Eating Contest and the Subway Series. The Yankees, known for their tradition of games on Independence Day, including a notable no-hitter and Lou Gehrig's "Luckiest Man" speech in 1939, will not be playing this year. However, the action will not disappoint, as all 30 MLB clubs will play on the Fourth of July for the third consecutive year.
One of the most anticipated games will take place in Philadelphia, where the Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776. The city hasn't marked the date with a home Phillies contest since 2021, but that will change in 2023, as Cincinnati will play in Philadelphia for a 1:05 p.m. game, with fireworks scheduled.
Fox will carry World Cup knockout action on the Fourth of July in 2023, including a match in Philadelphia. The Fourth of July slate is being considered for differentiation, with a potential New Year's Eve-style ball drop in Times Square discussed.
Games will start from 11:05 a.m. ET in the nation's capital to 10:05 p.m. in Sacramento. Four games will air on MLB Network, two will stream on Apple TV+, and a triple-header on Saturday will be carried by Fox and FS1. An ESPN Sunday Night Baseball doubleheader is scheduled for Sunday.
The MLB has decided against adding an in-season tournament to bolster regular season intrigue for the time being. Instead, they are focusing on other special events, such as the Fourth of July slate. For accurate and up-to-date details on MLB’s planned Fourth of July games and special events in 2022, 2027, or beyond, the best source would be MLB’s official announcements closer to those dates.
In conclusion, the Fourth of July in 2023 promises to be a memorable day for baseball fans, with a variety of high-profile games and special events planned. Whether you're a fan of the Yankees, Mets, Phillies, or just love the excitement of the Fourth of July, there's something for everyone. So, mark your calendars and get ready for a day filled with baseball, fireworks, and patriotic spirit!
In 2023, the media rights holder for Sunday Night Baseball post-ESPN may have an opportunity to capitalize on the potential popularity of Major League Baseball (MLB) games on the Fourth of July, a day when all 30 MLB clubs will play. The Fourth of July slate, including games in Philadelphia and New York, will feature various special events, such as the Yankees' tie to Coney Island's Hot Dog Eating Contest and the Subway Series.
