Orioles to experiment with earlier starts for weeknight games, more day games in 2020

The Orioles are adding early start times to their 2020 schedule. Sixteen weeknight games will start at 6:35 p.m. Home games in April and May, before Memorial Day, and September, after Labor Day, get the early start.

The team is also featuring more afternoon games, nine 4:05 p.m. Saturday starts and five midweek games that will begin at either 12:35 or 1:05 p.m.

Opening Day is March 26 against the New York Yankees. That begins at 3:05 p.m. The weekday afternoon games are: April 1 (Boston at 1:05 p.m.); April 30 (Kansas City, 1:05); May 13 (Cleveland, 12:35 p.m.); July 1 (New York, 1:05); and July 22 (Seattle, 12:35).

“The Orioles are committed to providing the most family-friendly experience in Major League Baseball,” said Greg Bader, Orioles senior vice president, administration & experience. “The earlier start time for select weekday games is based upon extensive feedback from our fanbase as we continue to explore efforts that can enhance the Oriole Park experience for families, children, and fans of all ages.”

The 4:05 p.m. Saturday games will be played in April, May, June and August 22. The August 22 game is an afternoon game because it precedes the Orioles-Red Sox Little League Classic in Williamsport, Pennsylvania the next night.

Memorial Day, May 25 (Chicago White Sox), and Labor Day, September 7 (Yankees), also will begin at 1:05 p.m.

The Orioles also announced that their Kids Cheer Free program, allowing free admission for children 9 and under with adult purchase of an upper-deck ticket, would return for a third season.

Another day in Florida: The Orioles added a spring training home game. On Monday March 23, they’ll play the New York Mets at 1:05 p.m.