sports
MLB Game Postponed Over Air Quality From Canadian Wildfire Smoke
A scheduled game between two teams was postponed Friday due to unhealthy air quality in Cleveland caused by wildfire smoke drifting from Canada. A split doubleheader is now set for Saturday at the same venue.
Jul 18, 3:22 AM·1m read3 sources
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The decision came after the local Air Quality Index reached 244, a level classified as very unhealthy. Officials said the move was made to protect players and fans.
A split doubleheader is now scheduled at the same ballpark on Saturday, with first pitch set for 1:10 p.m. and 7:10 p.m. Eastern. Fans attending both games must leave the stadium between contests. Ticket exchanges for those unable to attend the makeup games must be completed by 1:00 p.m. ET on Saturday through the original purchase method.
The pitcher originally lined up for Friday will now start the first game of the doubleheader. A pitcher from the Triple-A affiliate has been called up to start the second game.
Another game the previous night was moved up one hour in an attempt to limit exposure to the smoke. Players later reported burning eyes and a campfire-like sensation during the contest. >"My eyes were burning and itching a little bit. " — Mets infielder Brett Baty, July 16, 2026 (Getty Images) Conditions across northeast Ohio are expected to improve by Saturday afternoon, according to local forecasts.
