The 2025 Major League Baseball spring training schedules have been released, and fans around the country are buzzing with excitement. As tradition dictates, the 30 MLB teams are divided between Florida’s Grapefruit League and Arizona’s Cactus League.
Early Highlights in the Cactus League
Spring training is set to commence with a high-profile showdown between the Chicago Cubs and the Los Angeles Dodgers on Thursday, February 20 at Camelback Ranch in Arizona. This opener promises an early taste of competitive baseball as two storied franchises go head-to-head.
The action continues the following day in the Grapefruit League when the New York Yankees host the Tampa Bay Rays on Friday, February 21. These early games will provide a glimpse into the form and fitness of the players as they shake off the off-season rust and prepare for the rigors of the regular season.
All Teams on Deck
The opening weekend of spring training will see all 30 MLB teams taking the field for the first time on Saturday, February 22. This is a prime opportunity for fans to get an early look at their favorite players, as well as top prospects and off-season acquisitions who will be eager to make an impression.
Teams will continue to be active on Sunday, February 23, with a full slate of games slated to keep the excitement rolling through the weekend.
Mid-Spring Series
A marquee event, dubbed the Spring Breakout series, is scheduled for March 13-15. This will feature some compelling matchups, bringing an added layer of excitement to the mid-spring training schedule.
On March 24-25, fans in Arizona will be treated to a two-game series between the Atlanta Braves and the Chicago Cubs, while the Colorado Rockies will make a trek to Florida to face the Minnesota Twins on March 25. These cross-country fixtures provide an interesting twist in the midst of spring preparation.
Iconic Rivalries and Finale
As spring training heads towards its conclusion, one of the most anticipated events is the annual Freeway Series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Los Angeles Angels. Spanning three games, the series will begin with one game at Dodger Stadium and then shift to Angel Stadium for the remaining two. This annual clash between the rival LA teams is always a fan favorite.
Additional standout matchups include the Cleveland Guardians facing the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field, and the Kansas City Royals squaring off against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field. These games serve not only as final tune-ups for the regular season but also a chance for fans to experience some intriguing inter-league play.
Opening Day in Tokyo
In a unique twist, the 2025 MLB regular season will begin overseas. The Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs will open the season with a two-game series in Tokyo on March 18-19. This international bout not only expands the global reach of MLB but also offers fans in Japan a rare opportunity to witness top-tier American baseball live.
After their stint in Tokyo, the Dodgers and Cubs will return to the United States to resume their spring training schedules, ensuring they are fully prepared for the grueling season ahead.
Stateside Opening Day
Stateside Opening Day is set for March 27, with all 30 teams in action across the country. This marks the official start of the 2025 regular season, a day when hope springs eternal for every franchise and their fanbases.
As spring training progresses, all eyes will be on how teams and players shape up. The enthusiasm for baseball's return is palpable, and with a balanced mix of traditional rivalries, cross-league games, and international outings, the 2025 spring training schedule promises to be memorable and exhilarating for both players and fans alike.