Mets vs Cardinals Today: Time, TV Channel & How to Watch

The New York Mets and St. Louis Cardinals are set for a series finale on April 1, 2026, at 1:15 p.m. Eastern, and Mets fans are fired up after their squad was shut out the day before. Whether you're looking to catch the game on cable, stream it online, or find a free option, we've broken down every way to watch this afternoon matchup — including the pitching duel between Freddy Peralta (Mets) and Matthew Liberatore (Cardinals). Here's your complete guide to tuning in.

Game Details: New York Mets vs. St. Louis Cardinals | April 1, 2026 | 1:15 p.m. ET | Broadcast: SportsNet New York (SNY)

1. SportsNet New York (SNY) — The Official Broadcast

Overview

SNY is the primary home for Mets baseball and the official broadcast partner for today's game. If you have a cable or satellite subscription that includes SNY, this is your best bet for comprehensive coverage, including pre-game analysis, in-game commentary from the Mets' own broadcast team, and post-game wrap-up.

Key Features

• Full Mets home broadcast team
• Pre- and post-game shows
• Available via most major cable and satellite providers
• SNY app available for authenticated streaming

Pros

• The definitive Mets broadcast experience
• No blackout issues for in-market viewers
• High-quality production and dedicated Mets analysts

Cons

• Requires a cable/satellite subscription
• Not available out-of-market without a workaround

Price Range: Included in most cable packages (~$60–$100+/month depending on provider). See full broadcast details here.

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2. fuboTV — Best Live TV Streaming Service for Sports

Overview

fuboTV is widely regarded as the top live TV streaming service for sports fans. It carries regional sports networks in many markets, and depending on your location, may include SNY for in-market New York viewers. It's a cord-cutting favorite that doesn't sacrifice sports coverage.

Key Features

• Includes SNY for eligible New York-area subscribers
• DVR cloud storage (up to 1,000 hours)
• Stream on up to 10 devices simultaneously
• Supports 4K streaming on select content

Pros

• Excellent regional sports network (RSN) coverage
• No long-term contracts
• Free trial available for new subscribers

Cons

• Higher monthly cost than some alternatives
• RSN availability depends on your location

Price Range: ~$79.99–$99.99/month. Grab a fuboTV compatible streaming device to get started. More streaming details via NJ.com.

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3. DirecTV Stream — Best for RSN Access Nationwide

Overview

DirecTV Stream (formerly AT&T TV) carries an impressive lineup of regional sports networks, including SNY, and is one of the most reliable options for out-of-market fans who want access to local team broadcasts. It's a premium option, but one of the few that reliably carries RSNs at scale.

Key Features

• Broad RSN lineup including SNY
• Unlimited DVR storage on higher tiers
• No annual contract required
• Supports streaming on multiple devices

Pros

• One of the best RSN availability among streamers
• Strong channel lineup overall
• Works on Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, Apple TV, and more

Cons

• One of the pricier options on the market
• Interface can feel cluttered

Price Range: ~$84.99–$154.99/month depending on tier.

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4. MLB.TV — Best for Out-of-Market Fans (With Blackout Caveat)

Overview

MLB.TV is Major League Baseball's official streaming platform and provides access to nearly every MLB game. However, it's critical to note that local market blackouts apply — if you're in the New York or St. Louis market, this game will be blacked out. For fans outside both markets, MLB.TV is an excellent, affordable option.

Key Features

• Every out-of-market MLB game live
• Archive of every game going back decades
• Multi-game viewing and condensed game options
• Available on virtually every streaming device

Pros

• Best value for baseball fans outside local markets
• Excellent app experience with stats overlays
• Great for fans who follow multiple teams

Cons

• Local market blackouts will block this game for NY/STL viewers
• No live local broadcast integration

Price Range: ~$24.99/month or ~$149.99/season. Pair with a Roku Streaming Stick 4K for easy TV access. See free stream alternatives on MSN.

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5. Hulu + Live TV — Best All-in-One Streaming Bundle

Overview

Hulu + Live TV bundles live television with Hulu's on-demand entertainment library, Disney+, and ESPN+. It carries SNY for eligible subscribers and represents a solid middle ground between cost and content breadth. For fans who want more than just sports, this is one of the most complete packages available.

Key Features

• Includes SNY (market dependent)
• Bundled with Disney+ and ESPN+
• Unlimited DVR (with some ads)
• Two simultaneous streams (expandable)

Pros

• Great value with the entertainment bundle
• Clean, user-friendly interface
• ESPN+ adds more sports depth

Cons

• RSN availability is not guaranteed in all markets
• Price has increased in recent years

Price Range: ~$82.99/month. Works great on a Apple TV 4K or Chromecast with Google TV.

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6. YouTube TV — Most Reliable Live TV Alternative

Overview

YouTube TV has grown into one of the most popular live TV streaming services, offering a strong channel lineup and an unlimited DVR. While its RSN coverage has historically been inconsistent (it dropped regional sports networks in a dispute a few years ago), coverage varies by market — check availability in your area before subscribing.

Key Features

• Unlimited cloud DVR storage
• Up to 3 simultaneous streams
• Clean, intuitive interface
• Integrates seamlessly with Google/YouTube ecosystem

Pros

• Excellent DVR — never miss a game
• Very stable and reliable streams
• Great app across all devices

Cons

• Regional sports network availability is inconsistent
• Price increases have made it less of a bargain

Price Range: ~$72.99/month. More on the series finale broadcast details.

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7. Free Live Stream Options

Overview

Several platforms may offer free or low-cost access to today's Mets-Cardinals game, particularly through promotional trials or free streaming partnerships. Options like Tubi, Pluto TV, or broadcaster-specific trial periods occasionally carry MLB games or MLB Network programming. Additionally, some cable providers offer authenticated streaming through their apps at no extra charge.

Key Features

• No cost (ad-supported or trial-based)
• Various apps including Tubi and Pluto TV occasionally carry sports
• New subscriber free trials on fuboTV and DirecTV Stream

Pros

• Zero upfront cost
• Trials on paid services let you watch today's game free

Cons

• Availability is not guaranteed
• Ad-supported streams may have lower quality
• Trials require a credit card and cancellation reminder

Price Range: Free. Check NJ.com's free live stream guide for today's game. Also see MSN's full streaming breakdown.

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Comparison Summary

Service	Has SNY?	Price/Month	Best For
SNY (Cable/Satellite)	Yes	~$60–$100+	Traditional cable subscribers
fuboTV	Yes (NY market)	~$79.99+	Sports-first cord-cutters
DirecTV Stream	Yes	~$84.99+	Broad RSN coverage
MLB.TV	Blackout applies	~$24.99+	Out-of-market fans
Hulu + Live TV	Market dependent	~$82.99	Entertainment bundle seekers
YouTube TV	Market dependent	~$72.99	DVR-heavy users
Free Streams	Varies	Free	Budget-conscious viewers

Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Viewing Setup

Already Have Cable?

If you're subscribed to a cable or satellite package that includes SNY, you're all set. Simply tune to SNY at 1:15 p.m. ET. You can also stream via your provider's app on a Fire TV Cube or similar device.

Cord-Cutter on a Budget?

Sign up for a fuboTV or DirecTV Stream free trial — you can watch today's game at no cost and cancel before the trial ends. Pair either service with a Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max for an easy, affordable streaming setup.

Outside New York or St. Louis?

MLB.TV is your best long-term value if you follow the Mets or Cardinals from outside their home markets. At around $149.99 for the full season, it's an incredible deal — just remember today's game will be blacked out if you're in either local market.

Want the Best Picture Quality?

For the sharpest viewing experience, connect via a wired ethernet connection when possible, or use a WiFi 6 Router for faster wireless speeds. A 4K Smart TV 65 inch will make Citi Field look like you're right there in the stands.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What time is the Mets vs. Cardinals game on April 1, 2026?

The game starts at 1:15 p.m. Eastern Time on April 1, 2026. Make sure you're tuned in a few minutes early to catch pre-game coverage. Full game time details here.

What channel is the Mets game on today?

The game is broadcast on SportsNet New York (SNY). Check your local cable or satellite provider for the exact channel number in your area. Streaming options like fuboTV and DirecTV Stream also carry SNY for eligible markets.

Who is pitching for the Mets and Cardinals today?

The pitching matchup features Freddy Peralta for the New York Mets against Matthew Liberatore for the St. Louis Cardinals. This is the series finale following the Cardinals' shutout win over the Mets on March 31, 2026.

Can I watch the Mets vs. Cardinals game for free?

Yes, there are a few options. New subscribers to fuboTV or DirecTV Stream can take advantage of free trials to watch today's game at no cost. Some ad-supported platforms may also carry the game. See NJ.com's guide to free streams for today's game.