Baseball fans around the world wait all year for one thing—the World Series. It’s the biggest stage in Major League Baseball (MLB). But while fans love the excitement, many are still unclear about one important detail: the World Series game time.
In this article, you’ll get a clear and complete breakdown of World Series game time, including schedules, time zone conversions, why games start when they do, and how it impacts fans globally.
What Is the Standard World Series Game Time?
The World Series game time is usually set at 8:08 PM Eastern Time (ET). That’s the time when the first pitch is thrown, not when the broadcast starts.
The reason for this specific start time is simple: it gives time for national anthems, player introductions, and commercials. These are all important parts of the show.
MLB and broadcasters work closely together to make sure that everything runs on time and reaches the largest audience possible.
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Why Is 8:08 PM the Chosen Start Time?
The exact start time of 8:08 PM ET is chosen to fit both TV broadcast schedules and viewer convenience. The timing hits prime time for East Coast fans and is still early enough for West Coast viewers.
Here’s why that time matters:
- Prime-time viewing increases ad revenue
- Fans across U.S. time zones can watch live
- Pre-game shows can start at the top of the hour (7:00 or 7:30 PM ET)
The 8-minute delay past the hour is now a long-standing tradition in MLB scheduling.
World Series Game Time in Different Time Zones
Fans from all over the world tune in to watch the World Series. That’s why knowing how World Series game time changes in each region is helpful.
Here’s a simple table showing the equivalent time in major global zones:
| Region | Time Zone | Game Time (Local) |
| New York, USA | Eastern (ET) | 8:08 PM |
| Chicago, USA | Central (CT) | 7:08 PM |
| Denver, USA | Mountain (MT) | 6:08 PM |
| Los Angeles, USA | Pacific (PT) | 5:08 PM |
| London, UK | BST | 1:08 AM (Next Day) |
| Fort Munro, Pakistan | PKT | 5:08 AM (Next Day) |
| New Delhi, India | IST | 5:38 AM (Next Day) |
| Tokyo, Japan | JST | 9:08 AM (Next Day) |
This means fans in Asia and Europe usually watch the game early in the morning.
2024 World Series Game Schedule and Results
Let’s take a look at the World Series game time during the 2024 series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the New York Yankees. All games followed the traditional start time.
Here’s a table of the games:
| Game | Date | Start Time (ET) | Venue | Winner |
| 1 | Oct 25 | 8:08 PM | Dodger Stadium | Dodgers |
| 2 | Oct 26 | 8:08 PM | Dodger Stadium | Dodgers |
| 3 | Oct 28 | 8:08 PM | Yankee Stadium | Dodgers |
| 4 | Oct 29 | 8:08 PM | Yankee Stadium | Yankees |
| 5 | Oct 30 | 8:08 PM | Yankee Stadium | Dodgers |
The Dodgers won the series 4–1 and were crowned 2024 champions. All games began at exactly 8:08 PM ET, making it easy for fans to follow.
How Game Time Impacts Fans Around the World
For U.S.-based fans, World Series game time is usually perfect. But international fans have a different experience.
For example:
- In Pakistan, games start early in the morning at 5:08 AM
- In Japan, fans watch during mid-morning, around 9:08 AM
- In Europe, the game starts in the middle of the night
Many international fans adjust their routines or watch replays due to these late or early start times.
MLB is aware of its global audience, but prime-time U.S. slots still drive the highest viewership numbers.
Where to Watch the World Series
Watching the World Series is simple if you know where to look.
In the United States:
- Games air live on FOX
- You can also stream via FOX Sports App, MLB.TV, or select cable providers
In other countries:
- Use official MLB streaming platforms
- Regional sports broadcasters often carry live games
The most important thing is knowing the World Series game time in your local zone so you don’t miss it.
Why Start Times Rarely Change
MLB rarely changes World Series game time for a few key reasons:
- TV Contracts: Advertisers and networks build schedules around this timing.
- Fan Habits: Viewers expect the same time year after year.
- Consistency: Same start time keeps logistics smooth for players, stadiums, and staff.
Even if the teams are from the West Coast, the game still begins at 8:08 PM ET.
The only time you might see a different start is if there’s a weather delay or special MLB announcement.
Historical Start Times Comparison
To see how things have evolved, here’s a look at game times from older World Series events:
| Year | Typical Start Time | Notes |
| 1980s | 4:30 PM ET | Games often started in daylight |
| 1990s | 7:35 PM ET | Shift to more prime-time broadcasts |
| 2000s–Present | 8:08 PM ET | Standard time now used for every game |
This shift shows how MLB has changed to meet the demands of modern media and audience habits.
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What to Expect in 2025 World Series Game Time
The 2025 MLB season is currently underway, and the World Series game time will likely remain unchanged.
If tradition continues:
- Game 1 of the World Series will start 8:08 PM ET on the last Friday of October.
- The same timing will follow for Games 2–7.
The exact schedule will be released by MLB in September or early October, depending on playoff results.
Tips for Watching the World Series
Here are a few smart tips to make the most of World Series game time:
- Set reminders on your phone for your local start time
- Follow MLB on social media for updates or delays
- Use streaming platforms with replay features if you’re in a far-off time zone
- Watch highlights in the morning if the full game time doesn’t suit your schedule
These tips help you stay connected with the series even from afar.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the World Series game usually start?
The World Series game time typically starts at 8:08 PM Eastern Time. This timing is set to suit national TV audiences.
Why is the World Series game time always at night?
Night games ensure maximum viewership during U.S. prime time. They also allow broadcasters to run pre-game shows and ads.
Does World Series game time change for different teams?
No, the game time stays the same regardless of teams. MLB keeps it fixed at 8:08 PM ET for consistency and broadcast planning.
How can I find the World Series game time in my country?
You can convert 8:08 PM ET into your local time zone using online tools. MLB also posts local game times for international fans.
Conclusion
The World Series game time is more than just a clock on the wall—it’s a carefully chosen moment that brings the world together in front of a baseball diamond.
Every game starts at 8:08 PM ET, a time that serves tradition, media, and millions of fans. Whether you’re watching from New York, Tokyo, or Fort Munro, knowing your local game time makes all the difference.
As the 2025 series approaches, mark your calendars, grab your favorite snacks, and enjoy the best that baseball has to offer.
Don’t miss the pitch. Know the time. Watch the magic.