Cubs Vs Dodgers: Spring Training TV Schedule

by Jhon Lennon 45 views

Hey baseball fans! Spring training is here, and for those of us itching to see the Cubs take on the Dodgers, knowing when and where to watch is crucial. Let's dive into everything you need to know about catching these games on TV.

Why Spring Training Matters

Okay, so before we get into the nitty-gritty of TV schedules, let's quickly talk about why spring training is actually important. I know, I know, it's not the regular season, but think of it as a sneak peek! It's a chance for teams like the Cubs and Dodgers to experiment with lineups, give young players a shot, and let their stars get back into the groove. For us fans, it's an opportunity to see new faces, analyze potential strategies, and get hyped up for the season ahead. Plus, who doesn't love baseball under the warm spring sun?

Spring training provides a vital proving ground for players vying for roster spots. Teams use these games to evaluate talent, assess player fitness, and fine-tune strategies before the regular season kicks off. For fans, it's a relaxed atmosphere where you can often get closer to the action and see players in a more casual setting. Keep an eye on those up-and-coming prospects – you might be witnessing the future stars of the game!

Moreover, spring training offers teams the opportunity to work on specific areas of their game without the intense pressure of regular-season matchups. Pitchers can focus on developing new pitches or refining their control, while hitters can work on their timing and plate discipline. Managers can experiment with different batting orders and defensive alignments to find the optimal combinations for their team. This period of experimentation is invaluable for building a cohesive and competitive team.

Beyond player development and strategic adjustments, spring training also serves as a crucial bonding experience for teams. Players spend extended periods together in a more relaxed environment, fostering camaraderie and team spirit. This can translate into improved communication and chemistry on the field during the regular season. So, while the games may not count in the standings, the lessons learned and the bonds formed during spring training can have a significant impact on a team's success throughout the year. Don't underestimate the importance of these early games – they lay the foundation for what's to come!

Finding the Games: Your TV Options

Alright, let's get down to it. How can you actually watch the Cubs and Dodgers battle it out this spring? Here's a breakdown of your options:

  • MLB Network: This is your best bet for nationally televised games. Check their schedule regularly, as they often broadcast select spring training matchups, including those featuring popular teams like the Cubs and Dodgers.
  • Team-Specific Channels: If you live in the Chicago or Los Angeles areas, keep an eye on your regional sports networks (RSNs). For the Cubs, that's usually Marquee Sports Network. For the Dodgers, it's Spectrum SportsNet LA. These channels typically carry a good number of spring training games.
  • MLB.TV: This streaming service is a fantastic option for out-of-market fans. While not all spring training games are available, MLB.TV often streams a decent selection, allowing you to watch the Cubs or Dodgers even if you're not in their home market.
  • Streaming Services: Services like Sling TV, YouTube TV, and FuboTV often include MLB Network and RSNs in their channel lineups. This can be a convenient way to watch spring training games without a traditional cable subscription.

MLB Network often provides extensive coverage of spring training, featuring not only live games but also pre- and post-game analysis, interviews with players and coaches, and highlights from other matchups around the league. This makes it an excellent resource for staying informed about all the latest developments and storylines as teams prepare for the regular season.

Team-Specific Channels, such as Marquee Sports Network for the Cubs and Spectrum SportsNet LA for the Dodgers, offer the most comprehensive coverage of their respective teams. These channels typically broadcast a large number of spring training games, along with exclusive content such as behind-the-scenes footage, player profiles, and in-depth analysis from team experts. If you're a die-hard fan of either the Cubs or the Dodgers, subscribing to their RSN is a must for staying connected throughout spring training.

MLB.TV is a game-changer for baseball fans who live outside of their favorite team's market. This streaming service allows you to watch live games online, on your TV, or on your mobile device, no matter where you are. While not all spring training games are available on MLB.TV, the service typically offers a wide selection of matchups featuring various teams, including the Cubs and the Dodgers. With MLB.TV, you can follow your team's progress throughout spring training and get a sneak peek at their potential for the upcoming season.

Streaming Services like Sling TV, YouTube TV, and FuboTV have become increasingly popular options for cord-cutters who want to watch live sports without a traditional cable subscription. These services offer a variety of channel packages that include MLB Network and regional sports networks, making it easy to catch spring training games featuring the Cubs and the Dodgers. Plus, with the ability to stream on multiple devices, you can watch the games on your TV at home or on your phone while you're on the go.

How to Find the Exact Schedule

Okay, now that you know where to look, let's talk about how to find the specific game times and channels. Here's the strategy:

  1. Check Official Team Websites: The Cubs' and Dodgers' official websites will have their complete spring training schedules, including TV listings. This is your most reliable source.
  2. Use Online TV Guides: Websites like TV Guide or Zap2it allow you to search for specific games and see which channels are broadcasting them in your area. Just enter "Cubs spring training" or "Dodgers spring training" into the search bar.
  3. Follow Team Social Media: The Cubs and Dodgers often announce TV schedules on their social media accounts, like Twitter and Facebook. This is a great way to stay up-to-date.
  4. Consult MLB.com: The official MLB website has a comprehensive schedule of all spring training games, including TV information. This is a valuable resource for finding games across the league.

Official Team Websites are your go-to source for the most accurate and up-to-date information on spring training schedules, including TV listings. These websites are typically updated regularly with any changes or additions to the schedule, so it's always a good idea to check them frequently. You can also find information on ticket availability, stadium information, and other important details about attending spring training games in person.

Online TV Guides like TV Guide and Zap2it are handy tools for finding out which channels are broadcasting specific spring training games in your area. These websites allow you to search for games by team, date, or time, and they provide a comprehensive listing of all the channels that are carrying the game. You can also set up alerts to be notified when your favorite team is playing, so you never miss a game.

Following Team Social Media accounts is a great way to stay in the loop about all the latest news and announcements related to spring training, including TV schedules. Teams often use their social media channels to announce changes to the schedule, provide updates on player injuries, and share behind-the-scenes content from spring training. By following the Cubs and Dodgers on social media, you can be among the first to know about any developments and ensure that you don't miss any important games.

Consulting MLB.com is a valuable resource for finding information on all spring training games, including TV information. The official MLB website has a comprehensive schedule of games across the league, and it provides details on which channels are broadcasting each game. You can also find information on ticket availability, team rosters, and other important details about spring training. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just looking to catch a few games, MLB.com is a great place to start your search.

Don't Forget About Radio!

Hey, if you can't watch the game, don't forget about the radio! Many spring training games are broadcast on the radio, either on local stations or online. Check the team's website for a list of radio affiliates. Listening to the game is a great way to stay connected when you're on the go.

Radio broadcasts offer a fantastic way to stay connected to your favorite team, even when you can't watch the game on TV. Many spring training games are broadcast on local radio stations, providing live play-by-play coverage, expert analysis, and interviews with players and coaches. Tuning into the radio broadcast allows you to follow the action in real-time, stay informed about the latest developments, and experience the excitement of the game, no matter where you are. Check the team's website for a list of radio affiliates and start listening today!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it! With a little bit of research, you can easily find the Cubs and Dodgers spring training games on TV. Get ready for some baseball, guys! It's almost time for the regular season!