In a monumental move for international baseball, the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs are set to kick off the 2025 MLB season with a two-game series in Tokyo, Japan. Scheduled for March 18-19 at the iconic Tokyo Dome, this series marks a significant step in Major League Baseball's increasing global outreach.
Fans will have the chance to watch a star-studded lineup, with the Dodgers featuring Japanese sensations Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto. On the other side, the Cubs’ roster boasts Seiya Suzuki and Shota Imanaga, ensuring that local fans in Japan have plenty to look forward to.
This historic series will be the sixth occasion that MLB has opened its regular season in Japan, indicating the league’s commitment to expanding its global footprint. The Dodgers themselves are no strangers to international play, having launched the 2024 season overseas with a two-game series against the San Diego Padres in Seoul, South Korea.
Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "Major League Baseball is incredibly excited for this extensive slate of international games in 2024." Further validating the league's commitment to international engagement, Manfred noted, "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."
Global Expansion Continues
The excitement surrounding the Tokyo series is part of a broader strategy by MLB to bring the game to fans around the world. Besides the Tokyo clash, MLB has announced additional international matchups. The Houston Astros and the Colorado Rockies are slated for games in Mexico City, while the New York Mets and the Philadelphia Phillies will face off in London.
The global itinerary continues as the Tampa Bay Rays and the Boston Red Sox are set to play spring training games in the Dominican Republic. Wrapping up the international lineup, the New York Yankees will take on the Diablos Rojos in an exhibition game in Mexico City. These games are poised to bring the thrill of Major League Baseball to diverse audiences, amplifying the sport’s global appeal.
Uniting Fans Worldwide
"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 said, highlighting MLB's ambition to galvanize its international fan base.
This series of international fixtures exemplifies MLB’s forward-thinking approach to the sport. By planting its flag in new territories, MLB is not only growing its brand but also sharing the rich tradition and excitement of baseball with fans from different cultures and backgrounds.
The Tokyo series, in particular, is set to be a marquee event. With stars like Ohtani and Yamamoto representing the home country, the series promises to generate substantial local interest and excitement. Coupled with the immersive experience of live baseball, these games offer an unparalleled opportunity for cultural exchange through sport.
Anticipation Builds
As the dates approach, anticipation is certainly building among fans and players alike. The players themselves are eager to showcase their skills on an international stage. For many, it is a chance to connect with new fans and experience the global love for the game firsthand.
The commitment shown by MLB to include these diverse locations on its calendar demonstrates a clear vision for the future of the sport. In doing so, the league is creating lasting memories for fans, strengthening international ties, and securing the future of baseball as a truly global sport.
In sum, the 2025 season opener in Tokyo is more than just a couple of games; it is a statement of intent from Major League Baseball. By bringing the excitement of the Dodgers-Cubs rivalry to Japan, MLB continues to reinforce its status as a global sports leader, ensuring that the magic of baseball continues to transcend borders and bring people together from all corners of the world.