The Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs will make history in 2025, opening the MLB season with an international series in Tokyo, Japan. This landmark two-game series is set for March 18-19 at the iconic Tokyo Dome, showcasing premier talent from both teams on a global stage.
Dodgers and Cubs Bring Star Power
The games promise to be a treat for baseball fans worldwide, featuring some of the sport's brightest stars. The Dodgers boast a roster that includes Japanese sensation Shohei Ohtani and standout pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Meanwhile, the Cubs counter with the talents of Seiya Suzuki and Shota Imanaga, both of whom have strong followings in Japan.
This series marks another significant step in MLB’s extensive international outreach. Speaking about these initiatives, Commissioner Rob Manfred said, "Major League Baseball is incredibly excited for this extensive slate of international games in 2024." His statement underscores MLB’s commitment to global fan engagement.
A Track Record of International Games
MLB's foray into international markets is not new. The Dodgers are no strangers to opening seasons overseas, having faced the San Diego Padres in Seoul, South Korea to kick off the 2024 season. The upcoming series in Tokyo will be the sixth time MLB has opened a regular season in Japan, reinforcing the league's dedication to expanding its footprint beyond North America.
In addition to Japan, MLB has planned a series of games in other international locations, emphasizing the league’s effort to globalize the sport. Commissioner Manfred highlighted the success of these efforts: "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." These words reflect MLB’s strategy of taking baseball to diverse global audiences.
Upcoming International Matches
Alongside the Tokyo series, fans can look forward to a variety of international matchups. In Mexico City, the Houston Astros and the Colorado Rockies are set to face off, bringing high-caliber MLB action to passionate Mexican baseball fans. Across the Atlantic, London will host games featuring the New York Mets and the Philadelphia Phillies, continuing the trend of successful MLB London Series events.
Spring training will also see an international flair, with the Tampa Bay Rays and the Boston Red Sox heading to the Dominican Republic for games that celebrate the rich baseball heritage of the Caribbean nation. Plus, the New York Yankees will play an exhibition game in Mexico City against the Diablos Rojos, offering another exciting showcase for Mexican baseball enthusiasts.
Fostering Global Enthusiasm
Rob Manfred encapsulated the essence of MLB’s international endeavors by saying, "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." His enthusiasm for these initiatives mirrors the league's broader vision of making baseball a truly global sport. The proliferation of international games offers a unique opportunity not just for fans, but for players, to experience the sport in different cultural contexts, enriching their careers and expanding baseball's reach.
As the MLB continues to forge connections across continents, the upcoming international series stand as a testament to the sport's growing global influence. From the electric atmosphere of the Tokyo Dome to the fervent crowds in Mexico City and London, baseball is poised to enchant and engage fans worldwide, proving once again that it is a sport without borders.