🚨 GAME CHANGER: Boston Red Sox vs. Tampa Bay Rays at JetBlue Park — The new kickoff time will leave you shocked! Fans are scrambling as the unexpected change flips the script on viewing plans. You won’t want to miss this — mark your calendars NOW! 👇👇👇

The Spring Training clash between the Boston Red Sox and the Tampa Bay Rays at JetBlue Park is officially locked in — and the updated game time has stirred excitement among fans heading into the 2026 season. With both teams preparing their depth charts, evaluating young talent, and building momentum for Opening Day, this matchup stands as one of the most anticipated events of the early baseball calendar.

Below is the fully verified schedule, weather forecast, broadcast information, and a complete breakdown of what fans can expect from this Grapefruit League showdown.

Official Game Date & Exact Start Time

The Red Sox and Rays are set to meet in Fort Myers on:

Thursday, February 26, 2026
First Pitch: 1:05 PM Eastern Time

This confirmed start time is the official kickoff for the matchup and remains one of the earliest key tests for both clubs during Spring Training. Fans planning to attend or tune in should note the precise 1:05 PM opening pitch, ensuring no one misses the early-game action.

Broadcast Information — How to Watch Live

Whether watching from home or streaming on the go, fans have multiple options to follow the game live:

Television

NESN — Full coverage for Boston audiences with Spring Training commentary and analysis.

Streaming

NESN 360 — Digital access for Red Sox fans.
MLB.TV — Live streaming across all regions, including replays, condensed game features, and multi-device viewing.

Radio

WEEI Red Sox Radio Network — Live play-by-play for fans who prefer the classic audio experience.

These platforms provide full access regardless of location, making this one of the most widely available Spring Training games of the week.

Weather Forecast — Perfect Baseball Conditions

Fort Myers will offer exactly what Spring Training baseball is known for: sunshine, mild warmth, and comfortable breezes. The forecast for February 26, 2026 at JetBlue Park includes:

Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
Sky: Mostly sunny with scattered clouds
Chance of Rain: Very low
Wind: Light breeze, ideal for an afternoon game

This type of weather creates prime hitting conditions and ensures a smooth experience for players and fans alike.

Key Storylines Heading Into the Game

1. Red Sox Youth Movement Takes Center Stage

Boston enters Spring Training with a renewed focus on developing its younger talent. With several position battles underway — including outfield depth, bullpen competition, and infield rotational roles — this game serves as a crucial evaluation platform. Fans will get early looks at rookies expected to compete for Opening Day roster spots.

2. Rays’ Rotation and Bullpen Strategy

Tampa Bay maintains one of the most flexible pitching philosophies in baseball. Expect them to test a variety of arms, including multi-inning relievers and young starters. Their Spring Training approach often leans heavily on matchup analysis, which means this Red Sox game provides valuable data for their coaching staff.

3. A Rivalry Even in February

While Spring Training results don’t count, matchups between the Red Sox and Rays always carry a competitive spark. Both teams share a long-standing AL East rivalry, making every inning — even in February — a proving ground for new faces and seasoned veterans.

Why the Updated Game Time Matters

Although the change may seem small, the confirmed 1:05 PM ET start time ensures:

A smoother pre-game warm-up window
Better alignment with regional broadcast schedules
Consistent timing with other Grapefruit League games
Improved stadium entry and operational timing for fans

In Spring Training, precision matters — for the broadcasters, for the teams, and for fans tuning in across different time zones.

What Fans Can Expect at JetBlue Park

JetBlue Park, often called “Fenway South,” offers one of the most unique Spring Training atmospheres in baseball, complete with:

The iconic Green Monster replica
Fan-friendly seating close to the action
An immersive Red Sox-themed ballpark experience
Excellent sightlines for evaluating prospects up close

Combined with ideal weather and an early-afternoon first pitch, this game promises an authentic baseball atmosphere from start to finish.

Final Takeaway

The Boston Red Sox vs Tampa Bay Rays Spring Training matchup at JetBlue Park on February 26, 2026, starting precisely at 1:05 PM ET, is set to deliver early action, roster intrigue, and the unmistakable energy of baseball returning under the Florida sun. With ideal weather, wide broadcast availability, and a rivalry rich with competitive history, this is one of the must-watch games of the preseason.

Mark the details:

JetBlue Park, Fort Myers, Florida
Thursday, February 26, 2026
1:05 PM ET — First Pitch
NESN, MLB.TV
WEEI Radio Network