Rays and Phillies Face Off in Final Spring Training Game

Both teams look to end preseason on a high note in highly anticipated pitching duel

Apr. 13, 2026 at 6:10am

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A fragmented, geometric painting in bold colors depicting a baseball game in motion, with overlapping shapes and planes representing the contrasting styles and strategies of the two teams.A cubist interpretation of the final spring training matchup between the Rays and Phillies, capturing the dynamic energy and strategic complexity of the game.Philadelphia Today

The Tampa Bay Rays and Philadelphia Phillies will meet in their final spring training game of 2026, with both teams eager to finish the preseason strong. The Rays enter the game with a 10-17-1 record, while the Phillies are 10-16-2, but the records don't tell the whole story as teams focus more on preparation than wins and losses during this time of year. The pitching matchup between the Rays' Steven Matz and the Phillies' Jesus Luzardo is expected to be the highlight, with both starters putting up impressive numbers this spring. Meanwhile, the offenses will look to provide some fireworks, with Ben Williamson of the Rays and Otto Kemp of the Phillies leading the way. Fans can catch the action on MLB.TV and Fubo, though regional restrictions may apply.

Why it matters

This final spring training game between the Rays and Phillies serves as a preview of the upcoming MLB season, showcasing the talent and strategies of both teams as they prepare for the regular season. The pitching duel between Matz and Luzardo will be a particular point of interest, as these two aces look to set the tone for their respective teams. Additionally, the game highlights the growing importance of streaming services in providing fans access to baseball games, fostering a more connected global baseball community.

The details

The Rays enter the game with a 10-17-1 record in spring training, while the Phillies are 10-16-2. Despite their similar records, the teams have shown contrasting fortunes leading up to this matchup. The Phillies have struggled to find consistency, with recent losses to the Yankees and Orioles, while the Rays bounced back with a win against the Twins. On the mound, the Rays will start left-hander Steven Matz, who has been dominant this spring with a 0.00 ERA and 0.67 WHIP. The Phillies will counter with their ace, Jesus Luzardo, who had an impressive 2025 season and has continued his strong form in the preseason, posting a 3-0 record and 2.31 ERA.

  • The game will take place on April 13, 2026.

The players

Steven Matz

The Tampa Bay Rays' left-handed starting pitcher, who has been dominant this spring with a 0.00 ERA and 0.67 WHIP.

Jesus Luzardo

The Philadelphia Phillies' ace pitcher, who had an impressive 2025 season and has continued his strong form in spring training with a 3-0 record and 2.31 ERA.

Ben Williamson

A standout offensive player for the Tampa Bay Rays, batting .325 with impressive home run numbers this spring.

Otto Kemp

The Philadelphia Phillies' power-hitting outfielder, leading the team with 15 RBIs this spring.

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What’s next

Fans can tune in to the game on MLB.TV, specifically the Philadelphia Phillies channel, with Fubo being the recommended streaming platform. However, regional restrictions may apply, which is a common frustration for sports enthusiasts worldwide.

The takeaway

This final spring training game between the Rays and Phillies showcases the global appeal of baseball and the growing importance of streaming services in providing fans access to games, fostering a more connected and engaged global baseball community. The pitching duel between Matz and Luzardo, as well as the offensive firepower of players like Williamson and Kemp, promise an exciting conclusion to the preseason.