MLB 4th of July Schedule: What baseball games are a must watch this Independence Day TODAY

Ah, the Fourth of July. There's something undeniably American about this day-barbecues sizzling, fireworks bursting, and of course, baseballs flying. As you prepare to don your best red, white, and blue attire, let's not forget the true stars of the show: theMajor League Baseballgames lighting up the diamond across the country. So grab your peanuts and Cracker Jacks; here's a rundown of the must-watch matchups thisIndependence Day.

Mets @ Nationals - 11:05 AM ET, SNY, MASN, MLBN

Start your day early with a classic NL East showdown. The New York Mets, with Jos� Quintana on the mound, face off against the Washington Nationals' Joey Irvin. Both teams have had their ups and downs this season, but this game promises to set the tone for a day full of baseball magic.

Cardinals @ Pirates - 12:35 PM ET, BSMW, SNP

Next, the St. Louis Cardinals travel to PNC Park to take on the Pittsburgh Pirates. Andre Pallante will pitch for the Cards, while Miguel P�rez takes the hill for the Buccos. This game might just feature some mid-day fireworks of its own.

Reds @ Yankees - 1:05 PM ET, BSOH, YES

Over in the Bronx, the Cincinnati Reds battle the New York Yankees in a clash that screams baseball tradition. Frankie Montas will try to outduel Marcus Stroman in what promises to be an electric atmosphere at Yankee Stadium.

Astros @ Blue Jays - 1:07 PM ET, SCHN, Sportsnet, MLBN

Houston heads north to face the Toronto Blue Jays. Framber Valdez and Chris Bassitt square off in a game that's sure to be as heated as the summer sun. Both teams are in the thick of the playoff hunt, making this a must-watch.

White Sox @ Guardians - 1:10 PM ET, NBCSCH, BSGL

The Chicago White Sox visit the Cleveland Guardians with Keegan Thorpe taking on Ben Lively. It's a key AL Central battle with both teams looking to gain ground in the standings. Expect a tightly contested affair here.

Red Sox @ Marlins - 1:10 PM ET, NESN, BSFL

Down in Miami, the Boston Red Sox take on the Marlins. Nick Pivetta and Tyler Alexander will pitch in a game that could provide plenty of action. The Red Sox are always a Fourth of July favorite, and this game is no exception.

Tigers @ Twins - 2:10 PM ET, BSDET, BSNO

The Detroit Tigers visit the Minnesota Twins in a classic Midwest showdown. Kenta Maeda will face off against Bailey Ober in what should be a pitchers' duel. This game is perfect for those looking to catch some afternoon baseball.

Phillies @ Cubs - 2:20 PM ET, NBCSP, MARQ, MLBN

The Philadelphia Phillies take on the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field. Cristopher S�nchez and Jameson Taillon will pitch in a game that promises to be a hit with fans of both teams. The atmosphere at Wrigley is always special, but it's extra magical on the Fourth of July.

Padres @ Rangers - 2:35 PM ET, SDPA, BSSW

The San Diego Padres visit the Texas Rangers with Matt King and Max Scherzer dueling on the mound. This matchup is all about power, and there's potential for some long balls in Arlington.

Angels @ Athletics - 4:07 PM ET, BSW, NBCSCA

As the day transitions into evening, the Los Angeles Angels take on the Oakland Athletics. Roansy Contreras will pitch for the Halos, while JP Sears will try to keep the A's in the game. It's California baseball at its finest.

Orioles @ Mariners - 4:10 PM ET, MASN2, RSNW

The Baltimore Orioles face the Seattle Mariners in a game that promises plenty of excitement. With Bryce Miller pitching for the M's, this game could go either way.

Giants @ Braves - 7:20 PM ET, NBCSBA, BSSO, MLBN

As night falls, the San Francisco Giants visit the Atlanta Braves. Logan Webb and Charlie Morton will pitch in a game that might just steal the show. This is prime-time baseball at its best.

Rays @ Royals - 8:10 PM ET, BSSUN, BSKC

The Tampa Bay Rays take on the Kansas City Royals in a late-night clash. Zach Eflin and Alec Marsh will pitch, and while the Rays are the favorites, anything can happen under the lights.

Brewers @ Rockies - 8:10 PM ET, BSWI, COLR, MLBN

In the mile-high city, the Milwaukee Brewers face the Colorado Rockies. Freddy Myers and Cal Quantrill will be on the mound, and with the thin air of Denver, expect some high-flying action.

Diamondbacks @ Dodgers - 9:10 PM ET, ARID, SNLA

Finally, the Arizona Diamondbacks wrap up the day against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Zac Gallen will pitch for the D-backs, while the Dodgers send Knack to the mound. This West Coast showdown is the perfect way to end a day full of baseball.

So there you have it, folks. A day full of America's pastime on America's birthday. Baseball and the Fourth of July-does it get any better than this? Grab your favorite snacks, settle in, and enjoy the games!