AKRON, Ohio (Interstat) — The Reading Fightin Phils and Akron RubberDucks are set to open their 2026 seasons under chilly, wet conditions Thursday at Canal Park, weather permitting.

First pitch is scheduled for 6:35 p.m. EDT, though the forecast calls for a temperature of 41 degrees with rain. The game begins a three-game series between the Eastern League foes.

Reading will send left-hander Adam Seminaris to the mound. Akron is slated to counter with right-hander Khal Stephen. Both pitchers are looking to establish their season records from 0-0, as are their teams.

The Fightin Phils concluded their 2025 campaign with a 7-4 home victory over the Somerset Patriots on Sept. 14. The RubberDucks ended their 2025 season on the same day with a 5-4 road loss to the Harrisburg Senators.

According to Interstat’s game simulator, Thursday’s contest projects to be a tight pitchers’ duel, with a predicted final score of Reading 1, Akron 0.

Following the series, Reading will host the Hartford Yard Goats for a six-game homestand beginning Tuesday. Akron will hit the road for a six-game series at Harrisburg starting Tuesday.