In a move that highlights Major League Baseball's commitment to expanding its global reach, the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs will kick off the 2025 season with an exciting international series in Tokyo, Japan. The highly anticipated two-game series is set to take place on March 18-19 at the iconic Tokyo Dome.
Star-Studded Rosters
These games promise to be a thrilling showcase of talent, as both teams boast impressive rosters. The Dodgers feature Japanese sensations Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, adding a special layer of excitement for the local fans. On the Cubs' side, Japan is represented by Seiya Suzuki and Shota Imanaga, ensuring a warm reception from the Tokyo crowd.
This is not the first time the Dodgers have taken part in an overseas opener. They began the 2024 season with a two-game series against the San Diego Padres in Seoul, South Korea, demonstrating MLB's ongoing strategy to connect with international markets.
Commissioner Rob Manfred's Vision
Commissioner Rob Manfred shared his enthusiasm for the international games scheduled for the upcoming seasons. "Major League Baseball is incredibly excited for this extensive slate of international games in 2024," he said. His optimism is well-placed, as MLB has been working diligently to grow its global fan base.
Manfred further elaborated on the league's initiatives: "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."
Global Engagement
The upcoming series in Tokyo marks the sixth time MLB has opened a regular season in Japan, reinforcing the sport's enduring popularity in the region. Beyond Tokyo, MLB has a packed schedule of international games. In Mexico City, fans will see the Houston Astros face off against the Colorado Rockies, while London will host a series featuring the New York Mets and the Philadelphia Phillies.
In a nod to the rich baseball heritage of the Dominican Republic, the Tampa Bay Rays and the Boston Red Sox are slated to play spring training games in Santo Domingo. Additionally, the New York Yankees will bring their storied history to Mexico City, where they will play an exhibition game against the Diablos Rojos.
Fan Excitement
The widespread excitement is palpable, as Manfred succinctly summarized: "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."
As MLB continues to broaden its horizons, these international games are more than just a series of matches; they are celebrations of baseball's universal appeal. The league's efforts to bring the sport to diverse audiences underline a commitment to fostering a global community of baseball enthusiasts. With promising lineups and electric atmospheres, the upcoming games are set to deliver unforgettable experiences for fans worldwide.