Image Source: MLB.com
Mets vs Nationals fans will need to adjust their Sunday plans after the Washington Nationals announced a significant change to the game schedule. Due to expected inclement weather, the matchup has been moved up from its originally scheduled 3:05 p.m. ET start to a 1:05 p.m. ET first pitch.
The Nationals shared the update on Saturday, September 26, 2026, saying the earlier start was necessary because of the forecast. The change gives both teams a better opportunity to complete the game before weather conditions potentially worsen in the Washington, D.C., area.
Breaking Mets vs Nationals Schedule Change
The Sunday contest was initially set to begin at 3:05 p.m. ET. It will now get underway two hours earlier at 1:05 p.m. ET. The revised schedule applies to the game between the New York Mets and Washington Nationals at Nationals Park.
For supporters planning to attend, the gates will open at 11:45 a.m. ET. That opening time allows fans to enter the ballpark well before the new first pitch and gives them additional time to navigate the earlier start.
- New first pitch: 1:05 p.m. ET
- Original first pitch: 3:05 p.m. ET
- Gates open: 11:45 a.m. ET
- Reason for change: Expected inclement weather
- Teams: New York Mets and Washington Nationals
Tickets Remain Valid for Sunday’s Game
Fans who already purchased tickets do not need to take any additional action. The Nationals confirmed that previously purchased tickets remain valid for the rescheduled start time. There is no need to exchange tickets or obtain replacements because of the schedule adjustment.
That confirmation should provide some relief for spectators who made arrangements around the original afternoon schedule. However, ticket holders should carefully review the earlier timing and plan to arrive at Nationals Park sooner than expected.
The earlier start could affect parking, public transportation, meals, and other pregame plans. Supporters traveling from outside Washington should also account for the possibility of heavier traffic or delays as they make their way to the stadium before the gates open.
Why Weather Forced the Earlier Start
The Nationals cited forecasted inclement weather as the reason for moving the game. While the announcement did not provide a detailed weather timeline, bringing the contest forward is a common scheduling measure when rain or storms are expected later in the day.
By starting at 1:05 p.m. ET, Major League Baseball and the Nationals can create a wider window to play the matchup under acceptable conditions. The decision may also reduce the risk of a lengthy delay, postponement, or interruption during the later afternoon.
Weather-related schedule changes can be frustrating for fans, but an earlier start often gives players and spectators a clearer path to a completed game. It also provides teams with greater certainty as they manage travel and upcoming scheduling commitments.
What Mets and Nationals Fans Should Know
The most important message is simple: the game will begin earlier, but tickets remain valid. Fans should update their calendars, check their travel plans, and aim to be at the ballpark before the 11:45 a.m. gate opening.
Supporters watching from home should also revise their plans. The Mets vs Nationals matchup will now be part of the early Sunday baseball schedule rather than a midafternoon event. The new first pitch is at 1:05 p.m. ET, so viewers should be ready before the original start time.
The announcement came from the Washington Nationals on September 26, one day before the game. Any further changes would be communicated through the team’s official channels and standard MLB updates. Fans should remain alert for last-minute information, particularly if the forecast changes.
A Timely Adjustment for the Weekend Series
Moving the game forward creates a more practical afternoon window for the Mets and Nationals. It also helps protect the weekend schedule from the impact of potentially disruptive weather. Although the adjustment changes the rhythm of Sunday for both fanbases, it is designed to give the matchup the best chance of being played as planned.
For now, the key details are confirmed: the New York Mets and Washington Nationals will meet Sunday at 1:05 p.m. ET, gates will open at 11:45 a.m., and all previously purchased tickets will be honored.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time is the Mets vs Nationals game on Sunday?
The game will begin at 1:05 p.m. ET on Sunday, September 27, 2026. It was originally scheduled for 3:05 p.m. ET.
Why was the Mets vs Nationals game moved up?
The Washington Nationals moved the game earlier because of expected inclement weather later in the day.
When do the gates open at Nationals Park?
Gates are scheduled to open at 11:45 a.m. ET, giving fans time to enter before the revised first pitch.
Are previously purchased tickets still valid?
Yes. Previously purchased tickets remain valid for Sunday’s earlier start, and fans do not need to exchange them or take any further action.
Will the schedule change affect fans watching at home?
Yes. Viewers should plan for the Mets vs Nationals broadcast to begin at 1:05 p.m. ET instead of the original 3:05 p.m. ET start.
