The Dodgers and Cubs Set to Open 2025 Season in Tokyo
Major League Baseball continues to broaden its global presence, and the 2025 season opener promises to be an exciting chapter in this narrative. The Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs will kick off the season with an international series in Tokyo, Japan. This two-game series is scheduled to take place on March 18-19 at the iconic Tokyo Dome.
The decision to bring such a high-stakes opening to Japan underscores MLB's commitment to global outreach. In his statement, Commissioner Rob Manfred shared the league's enthusiasm, saying, "Major League Baseball is incredibly excited for this extensive slate of international games in 2024." This effort is part of a broader strategy to create and sustain baseball's popularity worldwide, a mission the league appears to be approaching with gusto.
Fans on both sides of the Pacific are likely to be thrilled by the upcoming series, especially because of the star power involved. The Dodgers’ roster will include Japanese sensations Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Not to be outdone, the Cubs will bring Seiya Suzuki and Shota Imanaga, offering fans a unique opportunity to see some of Japan's finest players in action under the MLB spotlight.
Tokyo's hosting of the 2025 season opener will mark the sixth time that MLB has launched its regular season in Japan, a testament to the deep baseball ties between the two nations. The league previously saw success there, with the Dodgers also having opened the 2024 season overseas, but this time against the San Diego Padres in Seoul, South Korea. "Our recent efforts have produced strong enthusiasm around the globe," Manfred remarked, highlighting the positive reception of MLB's international endeavors. "We look forward to building on that foundation."
Baseball Beyond Borders
The Tokyo series is just one part of MLB's ever-expanding international slate. In addition to Japan, the league has earmarked several other countries for games in the near future. Commissioner Manfred noted, "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."
Following the Tokyo opener, MLB has planned an exciting series in Mexico City featuring the Houston Astros and the Colorado Rockies. The league is also preparing for another foray into Europe, with the New York Mets and the Philadelphia Phillies set to clash in London. This return to London builds on the momentum from previous successful MLB events in the city.
Spring training will also see international flavor as the Tampa Bay Rays and the Boston Red Sox head to the Dominican Republic for games in Santo Domingo. The spring matchup in the Dominican Republic aims to celebrate the nation’s rich baseball history and its contribution to the sport. "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," Manfred pointed out.
A Commitment to Global Growth
MLB's global strategy extends even further with the New York Yankees set to play an exhibition game in Mexico City against the Diablos Rojos. These initiatives are not just about promoting the sport but are also about deepening the connections baseball has already forged with its international fanbase.
With each international series, exhibition game, and spring training matchup, MLB not only excites existing fans but also draws in new audiences, promoting a global appreciation for America’s pastime. The ambitious 2024 and 2025 slates reflect MLB’s relentless drive to promote the game worldwide, ensuring that wherever you are, the thrill of baseball is never far away.