The anticipation for the 2025 Major League Baseball season has taken a significant step forward with the release of the spring training schedules. As with tradition, the preparation for the new season is split between Florida's Grapefruit League and Arizona's Cactus League, hosting a total of 30 teams.
Opening Matchups and Key Games
Spring training will ignite with the inaugural matchup on Thursday, February 20, featuring the Chicago Cubs facing off against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Camelback Ranch. This early showdown sets the tone for a season full of intense and exciting baseball action. The following day, the New York Yankees will host the Tampa Bay Rays in the first Grapefruit League game, marking another critical moment as fans catch their first glimpses of their favorite players in action.
The opening weekend promises plenty of excitement, with all 30 teams taking the field on Saturday, February 22. This day marks an essential milestone as each squad begins the first of many tests leading up to the regular season. Action will continue through the weekend with games scheduled for Sunday, February 23, ensuring a full slate of baseball for fans to enjoy.
Spring Breakout Series and Special Matchups
Looking ahead, the Spring Breakout series from March 13-15 is set to bring a mid-training highlight. As teams continue to iron out their rosters, this period will be critical for players to secure their spots and for coaches to fine-tune their strategies.
Another notable stretch includes the two-game series between the Atlanta Braves and the Chicago Cubs in Arizona on March 24-25. Similarly, the Colorado Rockies will head east to Florida to take on the Minnesota Twins on March 25, highlighting the geographical span and the interleague interest provided by spring training matchups.
Traditional Rivalries and Unique Encounters
Fans of longstanding rivalries will not be disappointed, as the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Los Angeles Angels renew their competitive spirit in the annual Freeway Series. Scheduled to include one game at Dodger Stadium and two at Angel Stadium, this series remains a fan favorite and a vital preparation tool for both teams.
Additionally, the Cleveland Guardians will face the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field, and the Kansas City Royals will square off against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field. These games offer more than just competitive play; they provide a critical opportunity for teams to experience different venues and conditions ahead of the regular season.
International and Opening Day Highlights
Adding to the international flair, the regular season opens with a scintillating series in Tokyo, featuring the Dodgers and the Cubs on March 18-19. This global event continues MLB's tradition of reaching an international audience and showcasing the sport's broad appeal. After their stint in Tokyo, both teams will return stateside to continue their spring training schedules, ensuring a seamless transition back into domestic preparation.
The grand culmination of spring training leads into Stateside Opening Day, set for March 27. On this day, all 30 teams will take the field, symbolizing the start of a new season and the culmination of weeks of hard preparation, strategizing, and refining.
As we inch closer to February and the start of spring training, the excitement continues to build. These games, while merely the precursor to the regular season, carry significant weight for players, managers, and fans alike. Whether it's a superstar solidifying his role or a rookie fighting for a roster spot, spring training offers the first taste of America's pastime each year.