It’s shaping up to be a wild weekend in the desert. The Arizona Diamondbacks are set to host their longtime rivals, the Colorado Rockies, for a crucial late-May series at Chase Field. With the D-backs sitting second in the NL West despite a shaky 1-3 start to the 2026 season, this matchup carries more weight than just bragging rights.
The action kicks off on Thursday, May 21, with first pitch scheduled for 6:40 p.m. MST. But the real spotlight falls on Friday, May 22, and Saturday, May 23, where promotions, fireworks, and potential scheduling twists could make or break the fan experience.
A Weekend of Fireworks and Jersey Giveaways
Here’s the thing about attending baseball games in Phoenix: you’re never just watching nine innings. The front office has packed this series with incentives designed to fill those retractable roof seats. On Friday, May 22, fans can expect postgame fireworks lighting up the sky over downtown Phoenix—a tradition that draws crowds even when the game is out of reach.
But wait, there’s more. If you plan to stay through Saturday, May 23, the stakes get higher for early arrivals. According to official team promotions, the first 25,000 fans through the turnstiles will receive a Serpientes Replica Jersey. That’s right—the iconic snake mascot gear is being handed out courtesy of Talking Stick Resort. It’s a bold move, especially given how quickly popular giveaways vanish during rivalry weeks.
Navigating the Schedule Confusion
Turns out, not everything is as straightforward as it looks. While VisitPhoenix.com and Fox Sports 1450 list the Friday, May 22 game starting at 9:40 p.m. ET (which translates to 7:40 p.m. local time), the official MLB.com schedule lists a 6:40 p.m. MST start for that same date. More confusingly, both the Diamondbacks’ and Rockies’ schedules mark these late-May dates with "*if necessary" and "SS" tags.
For the uninitiated, "SS" usually denotes a split-squad or special scheduling scenario, often involving minor league call-ups or weather contingencies. The details are still unclear, but savvy fans know to check closer to game day. The Saturday, May 23 game is listed for 8:10 p.m. MDT on the Rockies’ site, adding another layer of timezone math to an already complex calendar.
Ticket Prices and Where to Buy
Let’s talk money. You don’t need to empty your wallet to catch this series. SeatGeek reports tickets for the Thursday, May 21 opener starting around $20, with some deals dipping as low as $11 if you shop around. They emphasize "transparent pricing," meaning no hidden fees at checkout—a refreshing change from the industry norm.
StubHub is also listing inventory for the Friday night clash, while Ticketmaster remains the authorized marketplace for primary sales. Given the rivalry factor—Rockies and D-backs have been bitter competitors since the mid-90s—prices tend to spike as the weekend approaches. If you want a seat in the nosebleeds, act now. If you want club level, you might want to save up.
Why This Rivalry Still Matters
Some folks think the NL West is dominated by the Dodgers, but the D-backs-Rockies feud has its own grit. These teams share a history of close playoff races and dramatic walk-offs. For Arizona, every win against Colorado feels like a statement. For Denver, beating the D-backs is a chance to prove they’re more than just a high-altitude novelty.
With the D-backs currently holding a 1-3 record, pressure is mounting. A sweep here could propel them back into serious contention. A loss? Well, let’s just say the fans in Sedona Red won’t be happy campers.
What’s Next for Fans?
If you’re planning to attend, arrive early. The jersey giveaway ends once 25,000 people enter, which could happen well before first pitch on Saturday. Check the MLB app for real-time updates on the "if necessary" status of each game. And yes, bring layers—even in May, a cool breeze can roll in after sunset.
Broadcast-wise, Dbacks.TV and Rockies.TV will stream the action for those staying home. But nothing beats the roar of the crowd when a home run clears the left-field wall at Chase Field.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Diamondbacks vs. Rockies series start?
The series begins on Thursday, May 21, 2026, with a 6:40 p.m. MST first pitch at Chase Field. The subsequent games are scheduled for Friday, May 22, and Saturday, May 23, though times may vary slightly depending on broadcast windows and weather conditions.
Is there a jersey giveaway at the May 23 game?
Yes. The first 25,000 fans entering Chase Field on Saturday, May 23, will receive a Serpientes Replica Jersey. This promotion is sponsored by Talking Stick Resort and is available on a first-come, first-served basis until supplies run out.
Where can I buy tickets for this series?
Tickets are available through multiple platforms. Ticketmaster is the authorized primary marketplace, while resale options are available on StubHub and SeatGeek. SeatGeek advertises prices starting as low as $11, with transparent fee structures to avoid checkout surprises.
Why are some games marked "if necessary"?
The "*if necessary" and "SS" tags on the MLB schedule indicate potential scheduling flexibilities, often related to weather delays, split-squad travel, or television blackout adjustments. Fans should monitor official team apps for final confirmation closer to game day.
How do I watch the games if I can't attend?
Fans outside the local broadcast area can stream the games via Dbacks.TV for Arizona-based viewers and Rockies.TV for Colorado-based viewers. National broadcasts may also occur on ESPN or Fox Sports networks, depending on the specific game slot.