In a captivating move that underscores Major League Baseball's commitment to expanding its global footprint, the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs are set to open the 2025 season with an international series in Tokyo, Japan. This thrilling two-game series is scheduled for March 18-19 at the iconic Tokyo Dome.
The series showcases some of the most exciting talents from both teams, with the Dodgers featuring Japanese stars Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, while the Cubs bring their own Japanese standouts, Seiya Suzuki and Shota Imanaga. For fans in Japan, it promises a rare opportunity to see their homegrown talent shine on the international stage.
The Dodgers are no strangers to international openers. They kicked off the 2024 season with a two-game series against the San Diego Padres in Seoul, South Korea. Now, by heading to Tokyo, the Dodgers continue their tradition of being MLB's global ambassadors.
MLB's International Strategy
This upcoming series will mark the sixth time MLB has started its regular season in Japan, underscoring the league's ongoing commitment to international engagement. Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed his excitement about the wide array of international games planned for the upcoming seasons.
"Major League Baseball is incredibly excited for this extensive slate of international games in 2024," said Manfred, reflecting the league's ambition to grow the sport's global reach. "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."
Expanding Horizons: More Global Games
MLB's international calendar in the coming seasons isn't limited to Tokyo and Seoul. The league has planned games in various locations around the world, including a series in Mexico City featuring the Houston Astros and the Colorado Rockies, and another in London with the New York Mets and the Philadelphia Phillies. These games are part of a broader strategy to bring MLB to fans across the globe.
Additionally, spring training will see the Tampa Bay Rays and the Boston Red Sox playing in the Dominican Republic, further highlighting MLB's commitment to engaging with diverse baseball enthusiast communities. The New York Yankees are also set to play an exhibition game in Mexico City against the Diablos Rojos, providing an exciting match-up for fans in the region.
Fans' Global Experience
Commissioner Manfred emphasized the benefits these international games bring to the sport's global fan base. "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 said. This is not only about expanding the MLB's market but also about celebrating the shared passion for baseball that transcends borders.
The decision to stage these games internationally reflects MLB's understanding of its diverse fan base and its commitment to making the sport more accessible. By bringing marquee matchups to different countries, the league is offering local fans a chance to experience the excitement of live MLB action up close and personal.
As MLB continues to innovate and reach out to new audiences, the international series set the stage for an exciting future where baseball is celebrated as a truly global sport. Fans worldwide can look forward to a unique season that not only showcases incredible talent but also brings the global community together through the love of the game.