Cactus League Games Change Start Times Due to Valley Heat

A record heat wave is forcing 11 spring training games to shift to later start times for fan safety.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 11:33pm

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In response to a forecast of temperatures potentially exceeding 100 degrees in the Phoenix area, the Cactus League has shifted the start times of 11 spring training games this week to later in the day as a safety precaution for fans. Individual teams have autonomy over their spring training schedules, and many have taken advantage of that flexibility to avoid the hottest parts of the day.

Why it matters

The extreme heat is an unprecedented challenge for the Cactus League, which typically deals more with rain delays than temperature extremes. This highlights the need for ballparks and organizers to be adaptable and prioritize fan safety as climate change brings more extreme weather to the region.

The details

A total of 11 Cactus League games have been shifted to later start times, with first pitches now scheduled for 6 p.m. or later. This includes games involving the Royals, Giants, Rockies, Angels, Rangers, Cubs, Athletics, Reds, Brewers, Diamondbacks, Mariners, Guardians, Dodgers, White Sox, and Reds. Ballparks are also making adjustments to allow fans to bring in water and other drinks to stay hydrated.

  • Temperatures could surpass 100 degrees as early as Wednesday.
  • The earliest the official high in Phoenix has reached 100 degrees previously was March 26, 1988.
  • The earliest the official high has hit 105 degrees was on April 20, 1989.

The players

Cactus League

The spring training league for Major League Baseball teams located in the Phoenix metropolitan area.

Bridget Binsbacher

The executive director of the Cactus League.

Andrew Bagnato

A spokesperson for the Cactus League.

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What they’re saying

“The Cactus League's No. 1 priority is the health and safety of all involved.”

— Bridget Binsbacher, Cactus League Executive Director (Cactus League Statement)

“This particular case is unprecedented. We've had to deal with rain over the years, and that's usually the most significant weather impact, but in terms of heat, this is a new one.”

— Andrew Bagnato, Cactus League Spokesperson (azpbs.org)

What’s next

As another week of spring training gets underway in the desert, ballpark staff members are doing everything in their power to make sure fans don't miss a single game despite the extreme heat.

The takeaway

The Cactus League's ability to quickly adapt game schedules and implement fan-friendly policies in response to the record-breaking heat wave demonstrates the league's commitment to prioritizing safety and ensuring an enjoyable experience for all attendees, even in the face of unprecedented climate challenges.