The announcement that the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs will open the 2025 MLB season with an international series in Tokyo, Japan has lit up the baseball world. Slated for March 18-19 at the iconic Tokyo Dome, this two-game series promises to showcase the sport on a global stage.
The Dodgers, coming off an impressive 2024 season-opening series against the San Diego Padres in Seoul, South Korea, are no strangers to starting their campaigns overseas. In Tokyo, they'll bring a roster featuring Japanese superstars Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, likely to draw significant local interest and bolster the event's international appeal.
The Cubs, equally well-prepared for this marquee event, boast a roster that includes prominent Japanese players Seiya Suzuki and Shota Imanaga. Their presence adds an intriguing layer to the matchup, enhancing the series' allure for Japanese fans and the broader baseball community.
A Tradition of International Series
This Tokyo series marks the sixth time MLB has opened a regular season in Japan, continuing a tradition that reinforces the league's commitment to expanding its global footprint. Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed the league's enthusiasm for this extensive slate of international games, stating, "Major League Baseball is incredibly excited for this extensive slate of international games in 2024."
Manfred underlined the positive global reception to recent international endeavors, noting, "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."
More International Excitement on the Horizon
The 2024 international schedule doesn't stop with Tokyo. MLB has lined up additional games in various countries, showcasing its intention to spread the thrill of baseball to fans worldwide. Notably, Mexico City will host games featuring the Houston Astros and the Colorado Rockies, continuing the momentum from previous successful events in the Mexican capital.
Across the Atlantic, London is set to witness a series featuring the New York Mets and the Philadelphia Phillies, promising a spectacle for European audiences. The British city's previous engagements with MLB have proven highly popular, and the upcoming series aims to sustain that excitement.
Celebrating Baseball’s Global Appeal
The Dominican Republic, a country with a deep-rooted baseball tradition, will see the Tampa Bay Rays and the Boston Red Sox play spring training games in Santo Domingo. It's a nod to the island nation's immense contribution to the sport, celebrated in what is sure to be a memorable event for local and international fans alike.
Meanwhile, the New York Yankees are set to play an exhibition game in Mexico City against the Diablos Rojos, further spreading baseball's reach beyond the United States and Canada. These initiatives underscore MLB's strategy to strengthen its international presence, providing fans across various regions with the unique opportunity to witness their favorite stars in action.
Looking Ahead with Excitement
Commissioner Manfred summarized the league’s vision, stating, "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." This statement captures the essence of MLB's ongoing efforts to globalize baseball and bring the sport closer to its diverse fan base.
As the league continues to embrace international series and exhibition games, the excitement among global fans is palpable. With star-studded rosters, historic venues, and an unprecedented schedule of games, MLB is set to deliver an unforgettable experience that unites baseball lovers across continents.