GAME CHANGER AT SALT RIVER FIELDS AT TALKING STICK: Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Los Angeles Dodgers Reveal Stunning New First Pitch Time — Opening Week Just Got Shaken Up

Opening Week just exploded with drama as the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Los Angeles Dodgers confirmed a major change to their spring showdown at the spectacular Salt River Fields at Talking Stick — and fans are racing to adjust their schedules.

This isn’t a minor adjustment.
It’s a full strategic reshuffle impacting broadcast timing, pitcher routines, fan travel plans, and Opening Week energy across the Cactus League.

⏰ NEW FIRST PITCH TIME — OFFICIALLY CONFIRMED

Date: Opening Week Matchup
Location: Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, Scottsdale, AZ
NEW First Pitch: 12:10 PM MST
(previously scheduled for 1:10 PM MST)

The game has been moved one hour earlier, catching many fans — and even some broadcasters — by surprise.

Team sources say the shift is connected to broadcast alignment, early pitching schedules, and league-wide timing adjustments meant to streamline Opening Week operations.

⚾ WHY THIS TIME CHANGE MATTERS

This timing adjustment is more significant than it looks on paper.

For the Arizona Diamondbacks

• Earlier bullpen sessions change evaluation windows for young arms.

• The staff plans to showcase multiple prospects who could break camp with the team.

• Coaches reportedly want earlier sunlight conditions to test outfield defensive alignments.

For the Los Angeles Dodgers

• Their stacked, star-heavy roster means pitching workloads are being monitored closely.

• An earlier first pitch affects how long veterans will play and when prospects sub in.

• Analytics staff pushed for this timing to synchronize data collection with internal systems.

Spring Training is all about timing — literally — and pushing the game earlier shifts everything.

📺 UPDATED BROADCAST & STREAMING OPTIONS

Because of the schedule change, broadcast windows have been updated:

TV

• SportsNet LA (Dodgers region)

• Arizona Sports/Bally Sports Arizona (Diamondbacks region, where available)

Streaming

• MLB.tv (out-of-market only; blackout restrictions apply)

• SportsNet LA App

• Bally Sports App

• FuboTV / DirecTV Stream / YouTube TV (regional availability varies)

Fans should check their apps — many platforms haven’t rolled out updated listings yet.

📌 THE ONE REMINDER YOU MUST SET BEFORE GAME DAY

Because of the new earlier start, fans are advised to:

✔ Set alarms for 11:45 AM MST and 12:00 PM MST
✔ Update and log in to MLB.tv or your RSN app beforehand
✔ Arrive earlier at Salt River Fields — parking fills FAST during Opening Week
✔ Expect lineups to be released earlier than usual
✔ Have your stream or TV ready at least 10 minutes before the new first pitch

If you tune in late, you might miss:

• The Dodgers debut of a rising pitching prospect

• A Diamondbacks offseason acquisition making early noise

• First-inning fireworks under Arizona’s perfect spring skies

🔥 OPENING WEEK JUST GOT EVEN MORE ELECTRIC

Arizona vs. Los Angeles is always one of the most anticipated Cactus League matchups — mixing star power, elite prospects, rivalry energy, and fan passion.

With the new first pitch time locked in, anticipation is soaring.
Both clubs expect packed stands, high-energy early innings, and a showcase of talent that sets the tone for the 2026 MLB season.