The 2025 Major League Baseball spring training schedules have finally been released, thrilling fans who eagerly await the return of America's pastime. The preparations will see 30 teams split between Florida’s Grapefruit League and Arizona’s Cactus League, each gearing up for a competitive season ahead.
The spring training kicks off on an exciting note with the Chicago Cubs facing the Los Angeles Dodgers on Thursday, February 20, at Camelback Ranch. The following day, the New York Yankees will welcome the Tampa Bay Rays for the first game of the Grapefruit League.
A highly anticipated opening weekend is set for Saturday, February 22, when all 30 teams take to the field for the first time, showcasing a range of talented rosters and enthusiastically supported by fans who have been waiting through the off-season. The action continues unabated into Sunday, February 23, ensuring a full weekend of baseball.
Notable Matchups and Series
As the calendar advances, fans can look forward to the Spring Breakout series, scheduled for March 13-15. This event is expected to feature several top-tier matchups, offering a glimpse of the potential dynamics for the upcoming regular season.
March 24-25 will see the Atlanta Braves and the Chicago Cubs battling it out in a two-game series in Arizona, adding an extra layer of excitement to the training schedules. Meanwhile, on March 25, the Colorado Rockies will head to Florida to take on the Minnesota Twins, presenting a unique inter-league preseason encounter.
Another highlight will be the annual Freeway Series featuring the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Los Angeles Angels. Known for its intracity rivalry, this year's series will include one game at Dodger Stadium and two at Angel Stadium, promising a thrilling spectacle for fans in Los Angeles.
Additional noteworthy matchups include the Cleveland Guardians playing against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field and the Kansas City Royals facing the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field. These games are poised to offer competitive action and rivalries that will set the tone for the 2025 season.
Opening Day in Tokyo
A remarkable feature of this year’s schedule is the international series set to open the regular season. The Dodgers and Cubs will travel to Tokyo for a historic matchup on March 18-19. This global event marks an important moment for MLB, as it continues to promote the sport worldwide. Following these games, both teams will return stateside to resume their spring training schedules, ensuring they are ready for the comprehensive season ahead.
Stateside Opening Day
After their return from Tokyo, excitement will reach its peak with Stateside Opening Day scheduled for March 27. For this momentous occasion, all 30 teams will be in action, each ready to embark on their journey through the 2025 season.
With the release of the spring training schedules, anticipation and excitement are building swiftly. Fans and players alike are gearing up for what promises to be an exhilarating season of Major League Baseball, filled with memorable moments, competitive matchups, and the timeless tradition of the game.