As the 2025 Major League Baseball season approaches, fans around the world can prepare for some exhilarating international action. The Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs will commence the new season with a marquee two-game series in Tokyo, Japan. This exciting clash is set to take place at the iconic Tokyo Dome on March 18-19, marking another significant milestone for MLB’s international outreach.
A Star-Studded Affair in Tokyo
The Dodgers, who recently opened the 2024 season with a two-game series against the San Diego Padres in Seoul, South Korea, will feature a roster that includes two of Japan's finest baseball exports, Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto. The Chicago Cubs, not to be overshadowed, will bring their own Japanese talents, Seiya Suzuki and Shota Imanaga, to the field in what promises to be a gripping encounter.
Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed the league’s enthusiasm for this global initiative: "Major League Baseball is incredibly excited for this extensive slate of international games in 2024." This will be the sixth time MLB has inaugurated its regular season in Japan, underscoring the sport's growing international footprint and commitment to engaging fans in every corner of the globe.
Expanding MLB’s Global Reach
In addition to the season opener in Tokyo, MLB has announced several other international series. Fans in Mexico City are eagerly anticipating games featuring the Houston Astros and the Colorado Rockies. London will also see MLB action with the New York Mets and the Philadelphia Phillies taking to the field.
The international calendar doesn't stop there. Spring training will have a unique twist with the Tampa Bay Rays and the Boston Red Sox set to play games in the Dominican Republic. The New York Yankees will add to the excitement with an exhibition game in Mexico City against the Diablos Rojos.
Manfred highlighted the broader global impact of these engagements: "Our recent efforts have produced strong enthusiasm around the globe, and we look forward to building on that foundation with returns to Mexico City and London, while also opening the season in Korea for the first time. In addition, we can't wait to celebrate the tradition of the sport in the Dominican Republic with our visit to Santo Domingo next March."
A World of Opportunities
The international series provide a platform for MLB to not only showcase the sport's elite talent but also to cultivate a deeper connection with a global audience. With games scheduled across four different countries outside the United States and Canada, the reach of America's pastime continues to extend far and wide. "We are thrilled that our fans across four different countries outside the United States and Canada will have the opportunity to see the game's stars," said Manfred.
The upcoming Tokyo series between the Dodgers and the Cubs will not only spotlight the dynamic talents of players like Ohtani, Yamamoto, Suzuki, and Imanaga but will also serve as a testament to MLB’s commitment to fostering an international following for the sport. As the league endeavours to build stronger global ties, these international games represent a significant step in that direction, promising to deliver memorable moments to fans worldwide.
As the 2025 season opener draws nearer, anticipation for these international games continues to build. With a blend of high-calibre talent and passionate fanbases, these series are poised to create an unforgettable chapter in MLB history, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.