Spring training baseball continues to build momentum across Major League Baseball, and another intriguing matchup will see the Pittsburgh Pirates face the Houston Astros at LECOM Park in Bradenton, Florida. As part of the Grapefruit League schedule, both teams are using these games to sharpen their rosters, evaluate prospects, and finalize pitching rotations before the regular season begins.

For fans planning to watch the game live, here is everything you need to know including the first pitch time, TV broadcast information, and streaming options so you can follow every inning.

First Pitch Time and Venue

The Pirates vs Astros spring training matchup will take place at LECOM Park, the spring training home of the Pittsburgh Pirates.

• Date: Tuesday, March 17, 2026

• First Pitch: 1:05 PM ET

• Venue: LECOM Park, Bradenton, Florida

The early afternoon start is typical for Grapefruit League games, allowing fans to enjoy live baseball throughout the day.

TV Channel for Pirates vs Astros

Fans who want to watch the game on television can tune in through regional sports networks that broadcast spring training coverage.

• TV Channel: SportsNet Pittsburgh (Pirates broadcast)

• Coverage: Full live broadcast with commentary and in game analysis

Spring training broadcasts often focus on roster battles, pitching performances, and prospects who are competing for a spot on the Opening Day roster.

Streaming Options

Fans who prefer watching the game online will have several streaming options depending on their location and subscription access.

Possible streaming platforms include:

• SportsNet Pittsburgh streaming platforms

• MLB.TV for out of market viewers

• MLB app streaming services

These services allow fans to watch the game live on smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart televisions.

Radio Broadcast Coverage

Fans who enjoy listening to baseball on the radio can follow the matchup through the Pittsburgh Pirates radio network.

• Radio Station: 93.7 The Fan

• Coverage: Full play by play broadcast from the first pitch to the final out

Radio broadcasts remain a favorite option for fans who want to stay connected to the game while commuting or following along during the day.

Why This Spring Training Game Is Worth Watching

Although spring training games do not affect regular season standings, they remain extremely important for both teams.

For the Pittsburgh Pirates, the matchup provides another chance to evaluate young players and determine how the pitching staff and lineup will shape up heading into the new season.

Meanwhile, the Houston Astros continue experimenting with lineup combinations and pitching depth as the coaching staff prepares for Opening Day.

These spring training contests often showcase a mix of experienced veterans and rising prospects, giving fans an early glimpse of players who could make a major impact during the upcoming MLB season.

Final Viewing Guide

Here is a quick summary of how to watch the game:

• Game: Pittsburgh Pirates vs Houston Astros

• Date: Tuesday, March 17, 2026

• First Pitch: 1:05 PM ET

• Location: LECOM Park, Bradenton, Florida

• TV: SportsNet Pittsburgh

• Streaming: SportsNet Pittsburgh platforms, MLB.TV, MLB app

• Radio: 93.7 The Fan

As spring training continues, every game helps teams make critical decisions before the start of the regular season. The Pirates and Astros clash at LECOM Park promises another compelling Grapefruit League matchup for baseball fans following the road to Opening Day.