The Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs are set to kick off the 2025 Major League Baseball (MLB) season with a marquee international series in Tokyo, Japan. This highly anticipated two-game series will take place on March 18-19 at the renowned Tokyo Dome, marking a significant event in the global promotion of baseball.
High-Profile Rosters Head to Tokyo
Fans will have the unique opportunity to see some of MLB's brightest stars on the international stage. The Dodgers' lineup will feature global icons Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, adding a distinct Japanese flavor to the team’s roster. On the Cubs' side, Seiya Suzuki and Shota Imanaga, both of whom have significant followings in Japan, will take the field, making the event even more special for local fans.
This series in Tokyo is a testament to the growing international footprint of MLB, a sentiment echoed by Commissioner Rob Manfred. "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, emphasizing the league's commitment to expanding its global reach.
Expanding the Global Stage
The upcoming series will be the sixth time MLB has commenced a regular season in Japan, underscoring the league’s longstanding relationship with the country. This move follows the Dodgers’ opening of the 2024 season with a two-game series against the San Diego Padres in Seoul, South Korea, advocating for the inclusive growth of baseball in Asia.
Commissioner Manfred highlighted the excitement surrounding these international endeavors: "Major League Baseball is incredibly excited for this extensive slate of international games in 2024. Our recent efforts have produced strong enthusiasm around the globe." He added, "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."
International Series and Exhibition Games
The 2025 opening series in Tokyo is just one part of MLB’s expansive international schedule. In 2024, fans can look forward to additional games in Mexico City, featuring the Houston Astros and the Colorado Rockies. Games are also slated for London, where the New York Mets and the Philadelphia Phillies will take the stage.
Spring training will extend beyond the traditional venues as well, with the Tampa Bay Rays and the Boston Red Sox set to play in the Dominican Republic. Moreover, the New York Yankees will bring their iconic brand to Mexico City, where they will face the Diablos Rojos in an exhibition game.
Building Enthusiasm Worldwide
MLB’s push to internationalize the sport can be seen as a strategic move to cultivate and deepen fan engagement globally. These international games not only serve to celebrate the diversity and talent within MLB but also aim to attract new fans to the sport.
With stars like Ohtani, Yamamoto, Suzuki, and Imanaga drawing crowds in Japan, and a robust plan to bring prominent teams to various international venues, MLB is fostering a global community of baseball enthusiasts. As Commissioner Manfred concluded, "Our recent efforts have produced strong enthusiasm around the globe, and we look forward to building on that foundation." This effort ensures that the spirit and excitement of baseball transcend borders, uniting fans worldwide in their love for the game.