As excitement builds for the second half of the season, baseball fans worldwide can now turn their attention to 2025, with Major League Baseball unveiling its upcoming regular-season schedule. While we anticipate the thrilling matchups and outcomes of the 2024 MLB season, it’s never too early to plan ahead.
Mark these five key dates on your calendar for the 2025 MLB season:
March 18-19: Tokyo Series
The 2025 MLB season kicks off with a highly anticipated Tokyo Series, where the Los Angeles Dodgers will face off against the Chicago Cubs at the iconic Tokyo Dome. This event marks the sixth time MLB has chosen Tokyo as the season opener, continuing the tradition that began 25 years ago when the Cubs first played there against the Mets in 2000. With the Dodgers making their debut in Japan, this showdown promises to be momentous not only for the teams but also for the fans eager to see their stars take the field.The Dodgers have a significant history of international play, having previously participated in series held in Australia, Mexico, and South Korea. On the other hand, the Cubs will be returning to Japan after their memorable series in 2000 and a 2023 excursion to London. Expect to see some familiar faces, including Japanese superstars Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto from the Dodgers, as well as Shota Imanaga and Seiya Suzuki from the Cubs, each bringing their unique talents to the game.
This series isn't just about baseball; it's a celebration of the global nature of the sport, enhancing the connection between MLB and its fans worldwide.
March 27: Opening Day
Mark your calendars for March 27, 2025—this year’s Opening Day is set to be historic, featuring all 30 MLB teams in action for an exhilarating 15-game slate.Notably, this marks the earliest Opening Day in league history, outside of a special international series, eclipsing the previous dates of March 28 in 2019 and 2024. Fans should keep an eye on the Pirates as their pitching star, Paul Skenes, may take the mound for his first Opening Day start in Miami.
Additionally, five exciting Interleague matchups, including the Brewers facing the Yankees and the Tigers squaring off against the Dodgers, promise thrilling baseball right from the season's start!
May 16-18: Rivalry Weekend
This year’s schedule introduces a thrilling format change where prime Interleague rivals will now face off in six games—two three-game series—rather than the four games seen previously.This not only adds intensity to these matchups but also creates more opportunities for fans to enjoy their favorite rivalries. With 11 of the 15 series featuring high-stakes clashes like Mets-Yankees, Angels-Dodgers, and White Sox-Cubs, expect a weekend filled with passion and dramatic moments. The Chicago series, in particular, will be popular for those looking to place White Sox player props before the game.
July 15: Atlanta All-Star festivities
Get ready for a spectacular celebration as the 95th All-Star Game, presented by Mastercard, heads to Atlanta's Truist Park on Tuesday, July 15, 2025. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Truist Park has quickly become a fan favorite since its opening in 2017, effectively replacing the former Turner Field, which hosted the All-Star Game in 2000.This year's event marks the third time Atlanta has embraced the Midsummer Classic, following the 1972 game at Atlanta Stadium. Anticipation is high for this exciting showcase of talent, and fans can look forward to thrilling festivities leading up to the game.
After the All-Star break, action resumes on July 18, with the Yankees visiting Atlanta and the Red Sox making their way to Wrigley Field, ensuring that the second half of the season kicks off with excitement.
September 28: Wrapping it up
The 2025 regular season concludes on Sunday, Sept. 28, presenting a thrilling finale for fans and teams alike. As the season winds down, it’s crucial to watch for potential division title clinchers, with 16 teams facing off against divisional rivals.Key matchups include the classic Orioles-Yankees clash in the AL East, which could have a division title on the line. Also, there could be playoff berths up for grabs when the Diamondbacks-Padres and Cardinals-Cubs face off.
