Phillies move up start time for Mets game as severe storms threaten Philadelphia

Published July 18, 2026 11:33 AM EDT

The Phillies moved Saturday’s game against the New York Mets up by one hour as severe thunderstorms threaten the Philadelphia region later in the day.

Why the Phillies game was moved

The game will now begin at 3:05 p.m., instead of its originally scheduled 4:05 p.m. start.

The Phillies said the change was made because of the weather forecast later Saturday evening.

Philadelphia Phillies

Philadelphia severe weather forecast

The most concerning storms are expected between 2 and 8 p.m., according to FOX 29 Meteorologist Scott Williams.

Storms could bring tropical downpours, frequent lightning and damaging wind gusts of 60 to 70 mph. Flooding and isolated tornadoes are also possible across parts of southeastern Pennsylvania, South Jersey and Delaware.

A flood watch covers Philadelphia and much of the surrounding region as several rounds of rain and storms move through Saturday.

FULL FORECAST: Philadelphia area weather: Severe thunderstorms, damaging winds and flooding expected Saturday

When will the gates open?

The Third Base and Left Field gates will open at 1:35 p.m.

All other gates will open at 2:35 p.m. The Phillies said the gate-opening schedule remains unchanged.

The Source: This article was written using information from the Philadelphia Phillies.

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