What happened: For the first time, a single network will carry every Major League Baseball game live nationally on one day, with Peacock airing the full July 5 slate under the #StarSpangledSunday banner. The Houston Astros host the Tampa Bay Rays at 2:30 p.m. CT as part of the schedule.
Why it matters: The national window puts a spotlight on a lopsided matchup: Tampa Bay arrives at 52-33 and riding a nine-game winning streak, while Houston sits at 43-47 and has dropped two straight. The showcase caps a holiday weekend that also featured MLB's special stars-and-stripes uniforms and caps.
By the numbers: Tampa Bay is 52-33 this season, has won nine in a row, and is scoring 4.6 runs per game while allowing 4.1. Houston is 43-47, has lost two straight, and is scoring 4.5 while allowing 5.0. The Rays took Friday's meeting in Houston, 3-1.
What to watch: First pitch between the Rays and Astros is set for 2:30 p.m. CT Sunday on Peacock, part of the network's full-league July 5 broadcast.