The schedules for the highly anticipated 2025 Major League Baseball spring training have finally been unveiled, setting the stage for an exciting prelude to the regular season. The 30 MLB teams will once again split between Florida's Grapefruit League and Arizona's Cactus League, offering fans across both states a chance to catch their favorite teams in action.
Opening Matchups
Spring training will commence with a marquee matchup between two storied franchises: the Chicago Cubs and the Los Angeles Dodgers. They will face off on Thursday, February 20 at Camelback Ranch, marking the official start of the Cactus League. The following day, the New York Yankees will host the Tampa Bay Rays at Steinbrenner Field in the first Grapefruit League game, bringing baseball back to its Florida faithful.
Full Slate Weekend
The excitement will ramp up as all 30 teams are set to take the field for the first full slate of games over the weekend. On Saturday, February 22, fans will be treated to a busy day of baseball action as teams take their first steps toward preparing for the 2025 season. The games will continue into Sunday, February 23, providing ample opportunities for fans to evaluate offseason additions and prospects competing for roster spots.
Special Series and Highlights
Notable matchups punctuate the spring schedule, including the Spring Breakout series scheduled for March 13-15. This period will likely feature some of the most competitive games of the preseason as teams begin to solidify their lineups and rotations.
One of the highlights will be the two-game series between the Atlanta Braves and the Chicago Cubs in Arizona on March 24-25, a rematch that always draws attention due to the history and talent of both ball clubs. Additionally, the Colorado Rockies will venture to Florida to take on the Minnesota Twins on March 25, bringing some interleague flavor to spring training.
Revisiting Classic Rivalries
The annual Freeway Series will see the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Los Angeles Angels clash once more. This three-game series will include one game at the iconic Dodger Stadium and two games at Angel Stadium, allowing Southern California fans multiple chances to enjoy this local showdown.
Other key matchups include the Cleveland Guardians facing off against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field and the Kansas City Royals taking on the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field. These games provide a preview of potential interleague play and allow teams to test themselves against unfamiliar opponents.
An International Kickoff
In a thrilling development for international baseball fans, the regular season is set to open in Tokyo with a series between the Dodgers and the Cubs on March 18-19. This global event showcases Major League Baseball's commitment to expanding its reach and engaging with a worldwide audience. After their dynamic matchups in Japan, both teams will return to the United States to resume their spring training before the stateside Opening Day.
Stateside Opening Day
All roads lead to March 27, when all 30 teams will be in action for stateside Opening Day, marking the official start of the 2025 MLB regular season. This day promises to be a festival of baseball, with fans flocking to ballparks across the nation to celebrate the return of America's pastime.
The release of the 2025 MLB spring training schedule adds another layer of excitement for baseball fans eagerly counting down the days until the first pitch. With a mix of traditional rivalries, international flair, and both new and familiar matchups, this spring training promises to be a memorable prelude to what is sure to be an exhilarating season of Major League Baseball.