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Joe Buck to Call ESPN’s 2026 MLB Opener: MetsDodgers on April 15

He is not slated for additional games, reflecting his preference for early-season assignments after stepping back from regular baseball work.

Overview

  • On the SI Media with Jimmy Traina podcast, Buck said the April 15 Mets–Dodgers telecast is his lone ESPN MLB assignment at this time.
  • Buck described the plan as still being pieced together, noting he and ESPN have not fully finalized the details.
  • ESPN’s new MLB arrangement features 30 exclusive, mostly weeknight broadcasts next season, with announcer lineups yet to be announced.
  • Buck said he favors early-season games and would hesitate to take midyear or playoff assignments without extensive preparation.
  • He was recently named the 2026 Ford C. Frick Award recipient and last called a national MLB game for ESPN on Opening Day in 2025.