Dodgers and Cubs Set to Open 2025 Season in Tokyo
In an exciting announcement for baseball fans worldwide, the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs will kick off the 2025 MLB season with an international series in Tokyo, Japan. The two-game series is scheduled for March 18-19 at the renowned Tokyo Dome, offering a profound nod to Japan's passionate baseball culture.
Adding further intrigue to the matchup, the Dodgers’ roster will feature Japanese stars Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Both players have become household names not only for their MLB exploits but also for their prior achievements in Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) league. On the other side, the Cubs boast Seiya Suzuki and Shota Imanaga, adding another layer of local interest to the series, as both players are also highly celebrated in Japan.
This international series comes on the heels of the Dodgers' 2024 season opener, where they faced the San Diego Padres in a two-game series in Seoul, South Korea. The decision to begin the season overseas for consecutive years underscores MLB's intent on expanding its global footprint and growing its international fanbase.
MLB's Commitment to International Expansion
Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed his enthusiasm for the league's ambitious international schedule, noting, "Major League Baseball is incredibly excited for this extensive slate of international games in 2024." This slate includes not only the Tokyo series but also games in Mexico City and London, reflecting the league's strategic efforts to bring baseball to new audiences.
In Mexico City, the Houston Astros will face the Colorado Rockies, while the New York Mets will take on the Philadelphia Phillies in London. MLB's international foray doesn't stop there. The Tampa Bay Rays and the Boston Red Sox are set to play spring training games in the Dominican Republic, and the New York Yankees will play an exhibition game in Mexico City against the Diablos Rojos. These events highlight the league's commitment to showcasing baseball on a global stage.
Commissioner Manfred elaborated on the league's international endeavors, stating, "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."
A Global Celebration of Baseball
The league's international initiatives are not just about expanding the reach of the game but also about celebrating the rich baseball traditions that exist outside the United States and Canada. "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, emphasizing the excitement and dedication underlying MLB’s global strategy.
These international matchups are particularly significant for players and fans in the host countries. They offer a rare opportunity for local fans to see MLB stars up close and foster a deeper connection to the sport. For the players, it’s a chance to perform on an international stage, often in front of their home country fans, adding a unique emotional element to these games.
Looking Forward
As MLB continues to grow its international presence, the league and its stakeholders are clearly committed to building a broader and more diverse fanbase. By bringing marquee matchups to international venues and tapping into local baseball traditions, MLB is not only promoting the sport globally but also enriching the experiences of its players and fans alike.
The upcoming 2025 season opener in Tokyo is set to be a historic event, drawing attention from baseball enthusiasts around the world. With stars like Ohtani, Yamamoto, Suzuki, and Imanaga on the field, the series promises exceptional performances and unforgettable moments. As the global celebration of baseball continues to expand, MLB is poised to bring more thrilling international action to fans everywhere.