World Series Games Get Earlier Start Time

For the first time in 34 years, World Series games will start before 8pm in the East, USA Today reports. First pitches will be thrown at 7:57 (except on Sundays, due to broadcaster Fox’s NFL coverage); in recent years, the average was around 8:30, and games often ended after midnight. “I’ve wanted this (for) a long time,” commissioner Bud Selig said.

“This is the earliest start time for any major US sports championship except the Super Bowl,” Selig added. It’s unclear how the change will affect ratings. In general, late games don’t seem to deter fans. But it could be good for those with early bedtimes. “There’s certainly a belief that for a younger audience … this is a real plus,” said Fox Sports’ president. (More World Series stories.)