As Major League Baseball (MLB) continues to expand its global footprint, fans around the world are preparing for an international slate of games that promises to bring baseball's best to new audiences. The Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs will headline these efforts by opening the 2025 season with an exciting two-game series in Tokyo, Japan.
This highly anticipated matchup is scheduled to take place on March 18-19 at the iconic Tokyo Dome. It's a fitting stage for international superstars such as Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto of the Dodgers, and Seiya Suzuki and Shota Imanaga of the Cubs. The presence of these players is certain to electrify the crowd and make for a memorable start to the season.
The Dodgers are no strangers to opening their season overseas. Only a year prior, they kicked off the 2024 season with a two-game series against the San Diego Padres in Seoul, South Korea. This upcoming series in Tokyo marks the sixth time MLB has launched a regular season campaign in Japan, underscoring the sport's growing popularity in the region.
MLB's Growing Global Presence
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has been a driving force behind the league's international initiatives. "Major League Baseball is incredibly excited for this extensive slate of international games in 2024," said Manfred. "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."
Indeed, the international schedule doesn't stop with Tokyo. MLB has planned additional games in Mexico City, featuring the Houston Astros and the Colorado Rockies. Fans in London will also have the opportunity to witness top-level baseball, with a series slated between the New York Mets and the Philadelphia Phillies. This is part of a continuous effort to bring the sport to a global audience, further solidifying baseball's place in the international sports landscape.
Spring Training in the Dominican Republic
Another exciting development for 2024 is the plan for spring training games in the Dominican Republic, where the Tampa Bay Rays and the Boston Red Sox are set to play. This marks a significant moment for MLB as it honors the rich baseball heritage of the Dominican Republic, home to many of the league's most talented players.
Furthermore, the New York Yankees will play an exhibition game in Mexico City against the Diablos Rojos, adding another layer to MLB's international agenda. These games not only provide local fans with an opportunity to see their heroes in action but also serve as a testament to the sport's enduring appeal and cultural relevance.
A Thrilling Future for Global Baseball
"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," Manfred added. This sentiment captures the essence of MLB's vision: to foster a deeper connection with fans worldwide and to showcase the sport's greatest talents on a global platform.
As MLB continues to break new ground internationally, the upcoming series and games offer a glimpse into the exciting future of baseball. With stars like Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Seiya Suzuki, and Shota Imanaga taking the field in Tokyo, fans can expect thrilling performances and unforgettable moments. The extensive slate of international games is not just a series of events; it's a celebration of baseball as a universal language that transcends borders and brings people together.