It looks like we’ll have to wait before welcoming back NBC Sports Chicago’s booth in 2023.
Jeff Agrest of the Chicago Sun-Times reported on Twitter that ESPN will be televising the White Sox-Astros Opening Night game on March 30, 2023. ESPN confirmed the news shortly after with a press release, saying the network’s exclusive telecast will begin at 7 p.m. ET/6 p.m. CT and also be available to stream on the ESPN App.
This game will signal the start of ESPN’s 34th consecutive year of regular season MLB game coverage. The network notes Baseball Tonight will precede the MLB Opening Night telecast with ESPN’s signature one-hour pregame show. Given this also marks the Astros’ first game since winning the World Series, the banner-raising ceremony and festivities will take place before first pitch and air within the telecast.
For the White Sox, new manager Pedro Grifol will now have more of a spotlight on his debut. The four-game series will undoubtedly serve as a challenge, especially given the club’s recent struggles when playing in Houston. Over the past three seasons, the Sox have faced the Astros 18 times both at home and on the road, owning a rather forgettable 6-12 record.
MLB Opening Night will also be available on ESPN Deportes and ESPN Radio with audio streaming on the ESPN App.
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Featured Photo: © Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
