KCTV5 to Broadcast 10 Royals Games in 2026, Including Home Opener

The partnership will bring Royals action to fans across the Midwest and highlight the team's community impact.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:19am

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting a baseball game, with sharp planes of color and overlapping perspectives representing the action on the field.A cubist interpretation of the Kansas City Royals' home opener, capturing the dynamic energy and competitive spirit of America's pastime.Kansas City Today

KCTV5 has announced a partnership with the Kansas City Royals to simulcast the team's home opener and 9 additional regular season games during the 2026 season. The broadcasts will reach up to 18 markets across 8 states, offering a free viewing experience for fans. The partnership goes beyond just game coverage, as KCTV5 will also highlight the Royals' community outreach and impact initiatives.

Why it matters

This partnership is a significant development for Kansas City baseball fans, as it marks the first time the Royals' home opener will be available for free over-the-air broadcast since 2007. It's an opportunity to bring the community together and celebrate the team's positive impact on the city.

The details

The broadcast schedule includes the Royals' home opener against the Minnesota Twins on March 30, 2026, as well as 9 other regular season games against opponents like the Milwaukee Brewers, Los Angeles Angels, and St. Louis Cardinals. KCTV5 will share the Royals' community outreach efforts and showcase how the team is making a difference in Kansas City.

  • The Royals' home opener will be broadcast on March 30, 2026.
  • KCTV5 will simulcast 10 Royals games throughout the 2026 regular season.

The players

KCTV5

A television station serving the Kansas City metropolitan area, owned by Gray Media Group.

Kansas City Royals

A professional baseball team based in Kansas City, Missouri, and a member of the American League Central division of Major League Baseball.

Curtis Miles

The general manager of KCTV5.

Cullen Maxey

The president of business operations for the Kansas City Royals.

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What they’re saying

“We're thrilled to partner with the Royals again in 2026 to provide free over-the-air Royals games to a championship fan base here in Kansas City. This partnership exemplifies our commitment to bringing quality sports entertainment to the community we serve, and we're proud to also highlight the exceptional work the Royals do to make Kansas City better.”

— Curtis Miles, KCTV5 General Manager

“We know that KCTV5 helped bring the personalities and talents of our exciting team to a broader audience, so we're thrilled to continue and grow our partnership. We want to build those connections with fans, and we're thrilled they can continue to access our games on cable, streaming, and local TV.”

— Cullen Maxey, Royals President of Business Operations

What’s next

Fans can visit KCTV5.com for more information about the broadcast schedule and times for the Royals games.

The takeaway

This partnership between KCTV5 and the Kansas City Royals is a win-win for local baseball fans, providing free access to the team's games while also highlighting the Royals' positive impact on the community. It's an opportunity to bring the city together around its beloved team.