Diamondbacks and Dodgers to open NBC era of MLB

According to The Athletic’s Andrew Marchand, MLB is expected to announce a variety of new broadcast partnerships next year, including deals with NBC, ESPN and Netflix. The report also states that the Diamondbacks’ new broadcast home will fall under ESPN.

All eyes will be on Los Angeles as the two National League West rivals open the 2026 season, with the Diamondbacks looking to start the year strong against the defending World Series champions.

The matchup has generated excitement not only among the teams’ fan bases but also among baseball fans in general, who are curious to see how NBC handles its new MLB broadcast. With the defending champions opening the season against a scrappy young Valley team, fans can expect some memorable moments to kick off the new era.

But the Diamondbacks aren’t just focused on ushering in a new broadcast era.

The team also wants to start the season on the right foot. A win against the Dodgers could set the tone for the rest of the year. The roster may see changes this offseason as the front office works to address team needs before then, but it could shape up to be a problem for their rival in blue.

Opening the year in prime time gives Arizona a national spotlight, offering more eyes on the team as it begins its campaign. Two division rivals facing off to launch both the season and a major broadcast deal promises to showcase what the Diamondbacks are capable of over the coming year.

The Diamondbacks and Dodgers will face off on Opening Day, scheduled on March 26, 2026.