As Major League Baseball continues its global outreach, the league has announced a series of international games that will showcase some of its brightest stars across the continents. Among the most anticipated events in this initiative is the 2025 season opener between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs, set to take place in Tokyo, Japan.
Global Spectacle: Dodgers vs. Cubs in Tokyo
The Dodgers and Cubs will face off in a two-game series at the Tokyo Dome on March 18-19, 2025, marking a significant milestone in MLB's international agenda. This highly anticipated series will feature prominent players from both teams, with Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto representing the Dodgers, and Seiya Suzuki and Shota Imanaga taking the field for the Cubs. Given the immense popularity of baseball in Japan, the presence of these stars is expected to draw substantial local and international interest.
Commissioner Rob Manfred conveyed MLB's enthusiasm for this global event, stating, "Major League Baseball is incredibly excited for this extensive slate of international games in 2024." Highlighting the strong international support and the league’s commitment to growing the sport worldwide, Manfred added, "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."
Continuing the Tradition: MLB in Japan
The upcoming Tokyo series will be the sixth time MLB has opened a regular season in Japan. This tradition of international season openers underscores the league's dedication to expanding its global footprint and connecting with fans across the world. The Dodgers, no strangers to international play, opened the 2024 season with a similar two-game series against the San Diego Padres in Seoul, South Korea.
Such events not only foster a deeper connection with international fans but also offer players a unique experience of starting the season in a different cultural setting. Manfred expressed optimism about these international ventures, 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."
Expanding Horizons: MLB's International Slate
In addition to the Tokyo series, MLB has planned a comprehensive slate of international games in the coming years. Mexico City will host games featuring the Houston Astros and the Colorado Rockies, while London will see the New York Mets taking on the Philadelphia Phillies. These matchups are part of a broader strategy to bring Major League Baseball to diverse global audiences.
The outreach efforts extend beyond the regular season as well. The Tampa Bay Rays and the Boston Red Sox are set to play spring training games in the Dominican Republic, furthering MLB's commitment to the Caribbean's rich baseball tradition. Additionally, the New York Yankees will play an exhibition game in Mexico City against the famed Diablos Rojos, promising to be a thrilling encounter for fans in the region.
Building on Success
MLB's strategy to host international games is not just about expanding viewership but also about enriching the cultural tapestry of the sport. Fans in Tokyo, Seoul, Mexico City, London, and Santo Domingo will have the rare opportunity to witness MLB games live, bridging gaps and fostering a shared love for baseball. Manfred articulated this vision by saying, "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."
As MLB continues to announce and execute these international fixtures, it's clear that the league is intent on establishing a more robust global presence. These efforts are expected to not only grow the sport’s audience but also inspire the next generation of international players, nurturing baseball talent worldwide.
The global journey of MLB is a testament to the universal language of sports, uniting communities and cultures through the shared excitement and passion for the game of baseball. As the league looks ahead to these international showdowns, fans across the globe eagerly anticipate the crack of the bat and the thrill of the game, showcasing the unifying power of America's pastime.