The Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago Cubs will kick off the 2025 MLB season in Tokyo, Japan.
This two-game series is set for March 18-19 at the Tokyo Dome. The Dodgers and Cubs have some of the biggest names in Japanese baseball history. Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto play for the Dodgers, while Seiya Suzuki and Shota Imanaga are on the Cubs’ roster.
Last year, the Dodgers started their season with a split series against the Padres in Seoul, South Korea.
MLB’s Global Reach:
Next spring’s games will be MLB’s sixth time starting a season in Japan. Here’s a look back at previous times:
– 2019: Oakland Athletics vs. Seattle Mariners
– 2012: Oakland Athletics vs. Seattle Mariners
– 2008: Oakland Athletics vs. Boston Red Sox
– 2004: Tampa Bay Rays vs. New York Yankees
– 2000: New York Mets vs. Chicago Cubs
Fans might think it’s cool how MLB keeps spreading its games worldwide.
MLB has been working hard to grow its brand globally recently. This year saw games in Mexico City (Astros vs. Rockies) and London (Mets vs. Phillies).
There were also spring training games between the Rays and Red Sox in the Dominican Republic, plus an exhibition game where the Yankees faced Diablos Rojos in Mexico City.
“Major League Baseball is incredibly excited for this extensive slate of international games in 2024,” said Commissioner Rob Manfred last summer when these events were announced on MLB.com. “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.”
What do you think about MLB playing more games overseas?
