When Do MLB Wild Card Games Start? Your 2024 Postseason and Tip-Off Schedule Guide
With the regular season winding down and fans eagerly tracking playoff races, the question on every baseball lover’s mind is: when do MLB Wild Card games start? Whether you’re planning a watch party, fantasy draft, or just want to follow the madness of October, this guide covers everything you need—including a bonus look at WNBA season tips with “when does WNBA games start?”
When Do MLB Wild Card Games Start?
The 2024 MLB Wild Card games are scheduled to begin Tuesday, October 1, and will run through Thursday, October 3 for both the American League (AL) and National League (NL) Wild Card series. These best-of-three matchups kick off Major League Baseball’s postseason, with four series played concurrently—two in each league—at higher-seed ballparks. Game times typically range from early afternoon (3:00 PM ET) to evening (8:00 PM ET), depending on TV scheduling and final team pairings. For the most updated times, check MLB’s official postseason schedule as the bracket locks in.
MLB Postseason Schedule: What to Expect
- Tuesday, October 1: AL & NL Wild Card Game 1
- Wednesday, October 2: AL & NL Wild Card Game 2
- Thursday, October 3: AL & NL Wild Card Game 3 (if necessary)
The winners advance to the Division Series, while the rest gear up for hot stove season.
Tips for Watching MLB Wild Card Games
- Games are broadcast on ESPN, TBS, or Fox Sports—check local listings for your favorite teams.
- Streaming options include MLB.TV (with postseason blackout restrictions), ESPN+, and team apps.
- Arrive early for tailgating, and plan for multiple games airing simultaneously on key nights.
When Does WNBA Games Start?
If you’re also a hoops fan wondering, when does WNBA games start? The 2024 WNBA season tips off on Tuesday, May 14, 2024. Opening week features every team in action and marks the beginning of a summer full of high-flying basketball action leading into the fall playoffs. Schedules are available on the WNBA website and team social accounts, with most games broadcast on ESPN, ABC, and local networks.
Table: Quick Reference for 2024 Wild Card and WNBA Start Dates
| Event | Start Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| MLB Wild Card Games | October 1, 2024 | Best-of-three series; AL & NL run concurrently |
| WNBA Regular Season | May 14, 2024 | Full league tip-off week, nationwide TV |
Frequently Asked Questions About Playoff and Season Start Dates
- When do MLB Wild Card games start?
Tuesday, October 1, 2024. - How long do MLB Wild Card games last?
Each series can end in two or three games; the opening round usually concludes in three days. - Where are MLB Wild Card games played?
The higher-seeded team hosts all games in the best-of-three. - When does WNBA games start?
Tuesday, May 14, 2024, with games throughout the week. - Where can I watch MLB and WNBA games?
MLB: ESPN, TBS, Fox Sports. WNBA: ESPN, ABC, CBS Sports, and local partners.
Conclusion: Never Miss the Opening Pitch or Tip-Off!
Knowing when do MLB Wild Card games start and syncing up with the WNBA’s season opener ensures you’re ready for the year’s most exciting sports moments. Mark your calendars, prep streaming devices, and get set for another epic October and beyond.
