The 2025 Major League Baseball (MLB) season is set to commence with an international flair, as the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs will face off in the Tokyo Series on March 18 at the Tokyo Dome in Japan. This marks only the sixth time in MLB history that opening day will take place in Japan. The choice of venue holds special significance for many of the Dodgers players, as it is the home country of National League MVP Shohei Ohtani and star pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto. The remaining 28 MLB teams’ openers are set to take place on March 27.
Various projection systems have released their forecasts for the 2025 season. According to FanGraphs, the projected standings hold much excitement. For the American League East, the New York Yankees are projected to win the division, however, this projection was posted shortly before the news of Gerrit Cole’s Tommy John Surgery, leaving fans to wonder if the teams following behind such as the Baltimore Orioles and the Boston Red Sox will overtake the Yankees. In the American League Central, the Detroit Tigers and Kansas City Royals are expected to fight for the top spot, with the Cleveland Guardians forecasted to experience a decline compared to their previous season. In the American League West, the Texas Rangers, Seattle Mariners, and Houston Astros are projected to be in a tight race for the division.
In the National League, the East Division has the Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies forecasted to be the frontrunners, with the New York Mets in contention. In the Central Division, the Chicago Cubs and Milwaukee Brewers are expected to go head to head while the Cincinnati Reds aim to compete for a wild card spot. Lastly, in the West, the Los Angeles Dodgers remain the favorites, but the Arizona Diamondbacks and San Diego Padres are projected to provide stiff competition.
While there are many teams expected to claim the top spots, two important teams to watch for are the Kansas City Royals and the Arizona Diamondbacks, who are considered underdogs but have multiple tricks up their sleeves. The Royals are projected to make a strong push in the American League Central, with predictions favoring them for a playoff spot. Alongside the Royals, the Diamondbacks have acquired Pitcher Corbin Burnes, and with his help, they may challenge the Dodgers in the National League West. Also in the lineup of projected underdogs is the Cleveland Guardians. Despite winning ninety-two games last year and advancing to the American League Championship Series, the Guardians have traded away key players like Andrés Giménez and Josh Naylor. However, they still boast star player José Ramírez, who narrowly missed a 40/40 season in 2024, along with a promising young pitching staff led by Tanner Bibee and Gavin Williams. Finally, the Los Angeles Angels, who have faced many challenges, have depleted their farm system while trying to strengthen their major league roster despite having the generational talent of Mike Trout. The most significant impact was the departure of Shohei Ohtani in 2023 without a playoff appearance. Adding players like Jorge Soler, Yusei Kikuchi, Kenley Jansen, and Yoán Moncada has only slightly improved their projections, with a predicted win range of around 74-75 games and low playoff odds.
Not only are the projections for each team released, but also a ranking of the top stadiums has been released. Sitting at number one is Oracle Park, home to the San Francisco Giants. Nestled along the waterfront, Oracle Park consistently ranks among the top MLB stadiums. Its breathtaking views of San Francisco Bay, combined with a diverse food selection, make it one of the most comfortable venues. In number two is our own Petco Park, home to the San Diego Padres. The stadium’s architectural beauty and proximity to downtown events enhance the overall game experience. Coming in at number three is Target Field, home to the Minnesota Twins. Since its opening in 2010, Target Field has been lauded for its design and fan-friendly atmosphere. Despite the unpredictable weather, the ballpark offers a comfortable and enjoyable environment for all spectators. In number four is PNC Park, home to the Pittsburgh Pirates. With a stunning view of the skyline and the Allegheny River, PNC Park provides an intimate setting that brings fans closer to the action. Its classic design and scenic backdrop make it a favorite among many. Finally, sitting at number five is Dodger Stadium, home to the Los Angeles Dodgers. As the largest MLB stadium by capacity, accommodating up to 56,000 fans, Dodger Stadium remains an iconic venue.
Along with the top stadiums in baseball this season, are teams that have made noteworthy updates to their ballparks. One of these is Oriole Park at Camden Yards, home to the Baltimore Orioles. After modifications in 2022 shifted the park from hitter-friendly to pitcher-friendly, the Orioles have once again adjusted the left field wall for 2025. This change aims to balance the dynamics, offering a more neutral environment for both pitchers and hitters. Also making changes is Sutter Health Park, the temporary home of the Oakland Athletics. During the construction of their new Las Vegas stadium, the Athletics will play at Sutter Health Park in Sacramento. This temporary move provides fans with a unique minor-league atmosphere during major-league games.
As the 2025 MLB season approaches, fans eagerly await the unfolding narratives, from international opening day matchups to the impact of the offseason moves, all contributing to the excitement of America’s favorite pastime.