Baseball enthusiasts around the world have much to look forward to as Major League Baseball (MLB) continues its commitment to global expansion. In a groundbreaking move, the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs will kick off the 2025 season with an international series in Tokyo, Japan. Slated for March 18-19, the two-game showdown will take place at the iconic Tokyo Dome, promising an exhilarating matchup between two storied franchises.
Both teams will feature some of baseball's brightest stars, adding an extra layer of excitement to this international opener. The Dodgers' roster includes the two-way sensation Shohei Ohtani and the highly regarded pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto, while the Cubs will bring their own Japanese talents, outfielder Seiya Suzuki and pitcher Shota Imanaga, to the field. This gathering of elite players is sure to electrify fans, particularly those in Japan who follow these athletes closely.
Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed considerable excitement about the extensive slate of international games planned. "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."
The Tokyo series will mark the sixth time MLB has opened its regular season in Japan, reinforcing the league's growing international presence. This follows the Dodgers' successful overseas opener in 2024 against the San Diego Padres in Seoul, South Korea, an event that highlighted MLB's strategy to bring the game to a broader audience.
Manfred's vision extends beyond Japan and South Korea. MLB has planned additional international games in 2024 that underline its commitment to global outreach. Fans in Mexico City will witness the Houston Astros face off against the Colorado Rockies, while London will host the New York Mets and the Philadelphia Phillies in what promises to be a thrilling series. Furthermore, the Tampa Bay Rays and the Boston Red Sox will travel to the Dominican Republic for spring training games, showcasing the sport's deep roots and enduring popularity in the Caribbean.
Beyond regular-season games, exhibition matches are also on the horizon. The New York Yankees are set to play an exhibition game in Mexico City against the Diablos Rojos, further cementing MLB's efforts to engage fans and build a robust international following. These strategic moves aim to celebrate the sport's global appeal and bring the action closer to baseball aficionados worldwide.
Commissioner Manfred emphasized the significance of these games for the league's global strategy. "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," he stated, underscoring MLB's mission to make baseball an international spectacle.
This ambitious schedule of international games is a testament to the success of MLB's recent efforts to expand its reach. The league's focus on staging high-profile matchups in diverse locations is not just about showcasing talent but also about fostering a deeper connection with audiences globally. The inclusion of star players like Ohtani, Yamamoto, Suzuki, and Imanaga ensures that these games will be competitive and captivating, offering fans a chance to see their heroes in action.
As the 2025 season approaches, the baseball community can eagerly anticipate the first pitch in Tokyo, a fitting start to what promises to be an exciting year of international baseball. This venture highlights MLB's dedication to growing the game and connecting with fans from Tokyo to Mexico City and beyond. As these international matchups become a regular feature, they will undoubtedly contribute to the sport's continued global popularity and success.