National League teams will take center stage during the initial weeks of ESPN's "Sunday Night Baseball" this season. Among these, the Dodgers stand out with three appearances in April and May. The Braves and Padres each have two appearances, including the season opener on March 30. Other NL teams like the Cubs, Phillies, and Mets also feature twice in April and May. Meanwhile, American League teams are limited to just one appearance each during these early months.

In a strategic move, ESPN has reserved the highly popular Red Sox-Yankees matchups for later in the season—a tactic used successfully in the past two years. These high-profile games are scheduled for key dates in June and August, ensuring they attract maximum viewership. Additionally, MLB Rivalry Week brings an exciting Yankees-Mets showdown on May 18. Fans can also look forward to a rematch of the World Series between the Yankees and Dodgers on June 1, as well as an NLCS rematch featuring the Dodgers and Mets on May 25.

The scheduling highlights the importance of creating engaging content that resonates with fans throughout the season. By carefully planning high-stakes matchups for later in the year, ESPN ensures sustained interest and excitement. This approach not only benefits the network but also enriches the baseball experience for fans, fostering a sense of anticipation and community around the sport.