MLB Takes to Tokyo: The 2025 Season Kicks Off Abroad
The 2025 Major League Baseball (MLB) season is set to break new ground, quite literally, as it begins in Tokyo, Japan on March 18. This marks the earliest Opening Day in MLB history, a testament to the league’s global aspirations and the enduring popularity of baseball in Japan. The Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs will face off in a historic two-game series, continuing a tradition that has seen MLB open its season in Tokyo five times before. This year, the Dodgers will send Yoshinobu Yamamoto to the mound, while the Cubs will rely on the arm of Shota Imanaga. Both pitchers are making their Opening Day debuts, adding an extra layer of excitement to the overseas opener.
The Main Event: Opening Day in the United States
A week after the Tokyo opener, the rest of the MLB teams will take the field on Thursday, March 27. This early start to the season is a departure from the traditional timing, reflecting the league’s efforts to adapt to the changing sports landscape and fan preferences. On Opening Day, 28 of the 30 MLB teams will be in action, with the Colorado Rockies and Tampa Bay Rays set to begin their season the following day. The delay for the Rockies and Rays is due to venue preparations at George M. Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, Florida, which will serve as the Rays’ home park for the 2025 season.
Matchups to Watch on Opening Day
Opening Day will feature a slate of exciting matchups, with several veteran pitchers taking the mound. Notably, the Rays will host the Rockies at 4:10 p.m. Eastern, with left-hander Shane McClanahan making his third Opening Day start for Tampa Bay. Other notable pairings include the Houston Astros facing the Seattle Mariners, the New York Mets taking on the Philadelphia Phillies, and the St. Louis Cardinals hosting the Chicago White Sox. Each game promises a blend of veteran talent and fresh faces, setting the stage for a competitive and thrilling season.
How to Catch All the Action
For fans eager to catch every pitch of the 2025 MLB season, there are several options to watch the games. Most Opening Day contests will be broadcast on the regional sports networks (RSNs) affiliated with each team. For those looking to tune in to the Opening Night game, ESPN will provide national coverage. To find the specific channel for your local games, you can refer to the MLB Schedule, which offers detailed information on broadcast times and networks.
Streaming Options for Cord-Cutters and Remote Fans
In an era where cord-cutting is increasingly popular, many fans will be looking for ways to stream MLB games without a traditional cable subscription. Several streaming services, including Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, and YouTube TV, carry ESPN and RSNs, making it easy to catch the action on any device. Additionally, MLB.TV is a popular option for streaming games, though it comes with local blackout restrictions. These restrictions are designed to protect the local broadcast rights of RSNs, ensuring that fans in a team’s home market can still enjoy their preferred viewing experience.
Following the Action: Stay Informed and Engaged
To stay informed about the 2025 MLB season, including Opening Day and beyond, fans can follow their favorite teams and players on social media platforms. Major League Baseball provides a wealth of information through its official website, where you can find news, schedules, and live game updates. Additionally, many local sports radio stations and websites offer in-depth analysis and commentary, helping fans stay connected to the teams they love. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual observer, the 2025 MLB season offers plenty of excitement and opportunities to enjoy America’s pastime.
