CINCINNATI, Ohio — In a city where baseball is a religion, today is the most holy of holidays. Thursday, March 26, 2026, officially marks the 107th Findlay Market Opening Day Parade and the start of the Cincinnati Reds’ regular season.
Despite a light morning mist, the clouds broke just in time for a perfect afternoon at the ballpark, with temperatures climbing into the comfortable upper-70s.
The Parade: A Mile of “Hometown Pride”
The festivities kicked off at noon at the historic Findlay Market in Over-the-Rhine. This year’s parade was led by a true Reds icon: Jeff Brantley. Now in his 20th year as a broadcaster for the team, “The Cowboy” served as Grand Marshal, riding through the 1.4-mile route to the cheers of an estimated 130,000 fans.
Parade Highlights:
- 145+ Units: The largest procession in years, featuring 16 marching bands and 30 horses.
- Honorary Grand Marshal: Dr. Timothy Kremchek, the Reds’ Medical Director since 1996, was honored for his decades of service to the team and the community.
- Market Specials: Fans lined up for “Reds Lobster Rolls” at Barlion’s and “Reds Hot Gelato” (habanero and cinnamon) at Dojo Gelato.
The Matchup: Reds vs. Red Sox
While many fans were surprised to see the tradition of a “Cincinnati-only” afternoon start continue to evolve—with several other MLB games already underway by the time the Reds took the field—the energy at Great American Ball Park remained electric for the 4:10 PM first pitch against the Boston Red Sox.
The 2026 Reds enter the season with a “power-first” philosophy. Manager Terry Francona is leaning on a lineup that led the Cactus League in home runs this spring, led by a healthy Matt McLain and the electrifying Elly De La Cruz.
Roster Watch: New Faces and Rookies
The 2026 Opening Day roster features some intriguing storylines:
- The Rookie Sensation: Sal Stewart has officially secured his spot as the starting first baseman, beating out veterans to land in the heart of the order.
- Rotation Stability: Andrew Abbott got the Opening Day nod, while young flamethrowers Chase Burns and Rhett Lowder have both made the squad, signaling a youth movement on the mound.
- Veteran Presence: Offseason addition Nathaniel Lowe provides a steady hand on the bench and in the clubhouse.
