Red Sox Spring Training 2026 Schedule Guide
Spring training is where hope gets its first pitch. Roster battles ignite, prospects arrive hungry to prove themselves, and the Red Sox fine-tune their approach before the season truly matters. For 2026, the Boston Red Sox have released their complete spring training slate—featuring the traditional Northeastern exhibition on February 20 and a packed Grapefruit League lineup running through late March. Whether you’re planning a Fort Myers pilgrimage, mapping out NESN viewing parties, or tracking which prospects might crack the Opening Day roster, this guide delivers everything you need to navigate the Red Sox spring training schedule 2026.
The beauty of spring training lies in its accessibility. Unlike the regular season’s high-stakes intensity, these February and March games offer fans a chance to watch players work through mechanics, see prospects get meaningful at-bats against big-league competition, and experience baseball in an intimate, sun-soaked setting. This year’s schedule brings compelling matchups, including multiple games against division rivals and interleague opponents like the Pirates—contests that reveal depth chart battles and give coaching staff critical evaluation opportunities before final roster decisions.
Quick Takeaways
- Opening exhibition: Red Sox host Northeastern at JetBlue Park on Feb 20—a perfect family-friendly introduction to spring baseball
- Grapefruit League opener: First competitive game is Feb 21 at Minnesota, with the Fort Myers home slate kicking off Feb 22 vs. Toronto
- Daily action through March: Expect a near-daily game schedule through March 24, including prospect showcases and Spring Breakout events
- NESN traditionally carries many Red Sox spring home games and NESN 360 streams in-market; NESN had not published an official 2026 spring-training broadcast schedule as of Nov 5, 2025—expect a broadcast announcement closer to spring training/opening day.
- Smart ticket strategy: Weekend games and rivalry matchups (especially Yankees) sell quickly—purchase early or download the printable schedule PDF for planning
- Pirates matchups: Boston hosts Pittsburgh on Feb 24 (JetBlue Park) and visits the Pittsburgh area on Mar 8 (LECOM Park) and Mar 22 (Bradenton) — three spring games that provide extended looks at prospects and depth.
The 2026 Schedule at a Glance: What the Calendar Actually Looks Like
Major League Baseball’s 2026 spring training calendar launches with exhibition games on February 20 before the full Grapefruit and Cactus League slates begin February 21. The Boston Red Sox spring training schedule follows this blueprint perfectly: an exhibition opener against Northeastern University at JetBlue Park on February 20, followed immediately by their first Grapefruit League contest at the Minnesota Twins on February 21.
Home spring games take place at JetBlue Park (affectionately known as Fenway South) in Fort Myers, Florida, where the team faces a rotating cast of opponents throughout February and March. This year’s schedule includes multiple matchups against the Rays, Twins, Pirates, Yankees, Orioles, Braves, Phillies, Blue Jays, and Tigers—a mix designed to provide competitive at-bats while accommodating broadcast windows and prospect evaluation needs.
Read more: 2026 Spring Training Complete Schedule Announced: Your Ultimate Guide
February and March Highlights
The Boston Red Sox spring training schedule 2026 breaks down into distinct phases:
Late February (Feb 20-28): The exhibition game against Northeastern kicks things off, offering a low-pressure opportunity for young players to see live game action. Grapefruit League play begins immediately after, with road games at Minnesota and Tampa Bay balanced by home contests against Toronto, Pittsburgh, and the Rays. This stretch establishes spring rhythms and gives veterans their first competitive swings.
| Date | VS. | Home/Away |
|---|---|---|
| Feb 20 (Exhibition) | vs. Huskies | Home |
| Feb 21 | @ Twins | Away |
| Feb 22 | vs. Blue Jays | Home |
| Feb 23 | @ Rays | Away |
| Feb 24 | vs. Pirates | Home |
| Feb 25 | @ Twins | Away |
| Feb 26 | vs. Rays | Home |
| Feb 27 | @ Braves | Away |
| Feb 28 | vs. Twins | Home |
Early-to-Mid March (Mar 1-15): The heart of spring training features daily games with minimal off-days. Home games against the Orioles, Yankees, Phillies, Tigers, and Rays mix with road trips to face divisional rivals and National League opponents. A special exhibition against Puerto Rico on March 3 adds international flavor to the schedule.
Late March (Mar 16-24): The final stretch includes a Spring Breakout prospect showcase (Red Sox prospects vs. Orioles prospects on March 20) and concluding tune-up games before the regular season begins in late March. These games often feature split-squad formats and position players getting limited innings as the coaching staff finalizes the 26-man roster.
| Date | Matchup |
|---|---|
| Mar 1 (Spring Training) | vs. Orioles |
| Mar 2 (Spring Training) | @ Blue Jays |
| Mar 3 (Exhibition) | vs. Puerto Rico |
| Mar 4 (Spring Training) | vs. Yankees |
| Mar 5 (Spring Training) | @ Phillies |
| Mar 6 (Spring Training) | @ Tigers |
| Mar 7 (Spring Training) | vs. Rays |
| Mar 8 (Spring Training) | @ Pirates |
| Mar 9 (Spring Training) | vs. Phillies |
| Mar 10 (Spring Training) | vs. Tigers |
| Mar 12 (Spring Training) | @ Twins |
| Mar 13 (Spring Training) | vs. Rays |
| Mar 14 (Spring Training) | @ Braves |
| Mar 15 (Spring Training) | vs. Twins |
| Mar 16 (Spring Training) | @ Orioles |
| Mar 17 (Spring Training) | vs. Braves |
| Mar 18 (Spring Training) | @ Yankees |
| Mar 19 (Spring Training) | vs. Twins |
| Mar 20 (Spring Breakout / Exhibition) | Red Sox Prospects @ Orioles Prospects |
| Mar 21 (Spring Training) | vs. Braves |
| Mar 22 (Spring Training) | @ Pirates |
| Mar 23 (Spring Training) | vs. Twins |
| Mar 24 (Spring Training) | @ Twins |
For fans who want to plan their viewing or travel schedules, the Red Sox spring training schedule 2026, printable and Red Sox spring training schedule 2026 PDF versions, are available on the team’s official website and MLB.com. These downloadable formats make it easy to track game times, opponents, and home-versus-away matchups at a glance.
Red Sox vs. Pirates Spring Training: What Actually Matters
Games against the Pittsburgh Pirates during spring training serve purposes that extend far beyond the final score. For the Red Sox, these matchups represent controlled evaluation opportunities—chances to test bullpen depth, run situational drills, and give top prospects meaningful at-bats against big-league pitching without regular-season consequences.
The 2026 schedule includes three Red Sox–Pirates spring games: Feb 24 (home at JetBlue Park), Mar 8 (at LECOM Park, Pittsburgh/Bradenton area), and Mar 22 (road, Bradenton). These games are used for extended looks at non-roster invitees, bullpen depth, and prospect evaluation.
What Smart Fans Watch During Red Sox-Pirates Games
Starting pitcher command and velocity: The first two innings reveal whether pitchers are ahead of schedule, on track, or still building arm strength. Pay attention to fastball location and whether secondary pitches are generating swings and misses or getting squared up.
Bullpen sequencing patterns: Spring training is when pitching coaches establish usage patterns and test high-leverage scenarios. Notice which relievers follow starters, who gets ninth-inning work, and whether specific matchups (lefty-lefty, for example) are being manufactured.
Position battle repetitions: The catcher position, middle infield depth, and fourth-outfielder competition often become clearer during Pirates games. Players getting consecutive starts or extended defensive innings are usually ahead in position battles.
Prospect performance metrics: Spring Breakout events feature top prospects facing each other head-to-head, and Pirates games sometimes align with these showcases. Watch for prospects getting at-bats in late-and-close situations—that’s coaching staff trust being earned in real time.
For fans tracking specific prospects or evaluating depth chart competition, the Boston Red Sox spring training game schedule typically identifies split-squad games and prospect-heavy lineups several days in advance, allowing strategic viewing choices.
How to Watch: TV, Streaming, and Radio Options
NESN traditionally carries many Red Sox spring home games and offers NESN 360 streaming for authenticated or subscription viewers. As of Nov. 5, 2025, NESN had not published an official 2026 spring-training broadcast schedule — expect NESN to announce game coverage closer to spring training/opening day (historically, NESN releases its spring broadcast slate in the weeks before camp). Confirm specific NESN telecasts on NESN.com once the network posts the 2026 broadcast schedule.
Maximizing Your Broadcast Experience
Check the spring training TV schedule. Red Sox early: NESN publishes its broadcast windows before games, identifying which contests receive full coverage versus abbreviated airtime. Games against the Yankees, Rays, and other marquee opponents typically get priority placement.
Download the printable broadcast schedule: The Red Sox spring training broadcast schedule is available as a PDF download, perfect for cord-cutters who need to plan streaming access or fans coordinating watch parties around specific games.
Explore away-game viewing options: For Red Sox spring training practice schedule days or away Grapefruit League games (such as contests at Minnesota, Atlanta, or Philadelphia), check opponent broadcast listings or MLB’s spring training streaming packages. Many teams offer free streams of spring games through their websites or regional sports networks.
Radio remains the most reliable option: If you can’t access video streams, Red Sox radio broadcasts cover every spring game with comprehensive play-by-play, providing pitch-by-pitch updates and prospect analysis that rivals television coverage.
Tickets, Travel, and In-Person Planning for JetBlue Park
JetBlue Park at Fenway South offers an intimate spring training experience that captures Fenway Park’s charm in a more accessible, family-friendly environment. The ballpark accommodates approximately 11,000 fans—significantly smaller than the regular-season home—which creates atmosphere and sightlines that make every seat feel connected to the action.
Securing Red Sox Spring Training Schedule 2026 Tickets
The Red Sox announced season and group ticket options; single-game spring training on-sale dates will be announced later (check redsox.com/tickets for the official release). In past years, single-game spring tickets have appeared in early winter, but the 2026 single-game on-sale date has not been posted (as of Nov 5, 2025).
Buy early for premium matchups: Games scheduled for Saturday and Sunday afternoons, plus any contest against the Yankees, Mets, or Rays, reach capacity quickly.
Weekday games offer value and availability: Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon games provide excellent baseball at lower prices with more seating options, plus easier parking and shorter concession lines.
Look for printable ticket options: The Red Sox spring training schedule 2026 tickets system offers digital and printable formats, ensuring you have backup access if mobile ticketing encounters issues.
On-Site Experience Tips
Arrive 90 minutes early: Gates typically open to allow batting practice access and autograph opportunities, especially for fans with seats close to the field. Players are generally more accessible during spring training than regular-season games.
Pack sun protection essentials: Fort Myers delivers consistent sunshine and temperatures in the 75-85°F range during February and March. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential, as shade is limited in many seating sections.
Plan parking strategically: JetBlue Park’s main lots fill quickly for weekend games. Arrive early or consider rideshare services to avoid traffic congestion, especially for the 1:05 p.m. first pitches.
Travel and Budget Planning
Book flights 6-8 weeks out: Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers sees spring training demand surge, with peak pricing around Yankees games and March weekends. Early booking typically saves 30-40% on airfare.
Lodging near the ballpark: Hotels within 3-4 miles of JetBlue Park offer shuttle services during spring training. Book accommodations simultaneously with tickets to ensure availability.
Food and concessions: Spring training pricing at JetBlue Park runs 20-30% lower than regular-season Fenway rates, making it easier to enjoy the full ballpark food experience without breaking the budget.
Who to Watch: Prospects, Depth, and Roster Battles
Spring training transforms from exhibition to evaluation laboratory when you know which players and position battles deserve attention. For the 2026 Red Sox, several storylines will dominate Fort Myers:
Prospects on the cusp: Players receiving repeat at-bats in late-game, high-leverage situations are signaling to the coaching staff they’re ready for big-league responsibility. Watch for prospects getting multiple starts at premium positions or facing top opposing arms.
Non-roster invitees: Veterans and journeymen on minor-league deals with spring invites are fighting for bench spots, bullpen roles, or utility positions. Players who make the Boston Red Sox spring training practice schedule daily and appear in consecutive games are clearly in consideration.
Injury returns: Veterans recovering from previous-season injuries use spring training to demonstrate readiness. Limited early innings that gradually increase signal proper buildup; extended action in week one might indicate the medical staff has already cleared the player fully.
Spring Breakout showcases: MLB’s Spring Breakout schedule integrates top prospects from multiple organizations into special showcase games. The Red Sox prospects vs. Orioles prospects matchup on March 20 provides a direct comparison between organizational talent and can fast-track promotions or boost trade value.
Position battles to monitor include backup catcher competition, middle-infield depth behind the projected starters, fourth and fifth outfielder roles, and the final bullpen spots—typically a mix of Rule 5 picks, rehab veterans, and Triple-A depth options.
Your Spring Training Action Plan
The Red Sox 2026 spring training schedule delivers six weeks of accessible, meaningful baseball that shapes the upcoming season. Whether you’re planning a Fort Myers vacation around the February 24 Pirates home game, coordinating NESN viewing schedules for Northeastern’s exhibition, or tracking which prospects earn March at-bats, early preparation maximizes your spring training experience.
Download the Boston Red Sox spring training schedule 2026 PDF from the team website to map viewing priorities, purchase Red Sox spring training schedule 2026 tickets early for weekend games, and bookmark both MLB.com and NESN.com for broadcast updates. Spring training rewards the prepared fan—those who know which games matter for roster decisions, which prospects are genuinely competing for spots, and how to access broadcasts when JetBlue Park is 1,500 miles away.
The 2026 spring training schedule represents possibilities: rookies who might become stars, veterans proving they have another season left, and the small mechanical adjustments that turn good teams into great ones. It starts February 20 with Northeastern and builds through late March’s final tune-ups. Make your plan now, and enjoy every pitch of it.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Boston Red Sox spring training start in 2026?
The exhibition slate begins February 20 with Northeastern at JetBlue Park, and Grapefruit League play starts February 21 with a road game at Minnesota. The home schedule opens February 22 against Toronto.
Where are Red Sox spring training home games played?
Home games take place at JetBlue Park at Fenway South in Fort Myers, Florida. The ballpark replicates Fenway Park’s iconic features in a spring training setting with approximately 11,000 seats.
Will NESN broadcast Red Sox spring training games in 2026?
NESN traditionally airs a significant number of Red Sox spring training games and offers NESN 360 streaming in-market. However, NESN had not published its specific 2026 spring-training broadcast schedule as of Nov. 5, 2025—check NESN.com or the team’s media page for the official broadcast slate when it’s released.
Can I download a printable Red Sox spring training schedule PDF?
Yes—the Red Sox and MLB websites provide printable and downloadable PDF schedules for spring training. Look for “printable schedule” links on the team’s official schedule page, which also includes broadcast information and ticket links.
What spring training games matter most for roster evaluation?
Late-February games (after the first week) and all of March feature roster-bubble players getting extended looks. Split-squad games, Spring Breakout prospect showcases, and the final week before Opening Day provide the clearest roster decision indicators.
