The end of winter promises more than a break from the snow and cold: it's time to get excited for baseball season! From Miami to Minnesota, Seattle to Sacramento (the new home of the Athletics), World Series hope springs eternal for MLB fans and players across the country.
This excitement is palpable for the 2025 MLB season, which will be difficult to predict given the latest off-season shake-ups. With MLB Opening Day 2025 almost here, it's time to take a closer look at the teams, players, storylines, and rule changes that will make the new season one to remember.
When Does the 2025 MLB Season Start?
For the sixth time in league history, the 2025 MLB season will begin in Japan. It's a fitting choice, considering the teams making the trip. Shohei Ohtani and the Dodgers will take on Shota Imanaga, Seiya Suzuki, and the Chicago Cubs at the Tokyo Dome on March 18th and 19th.
On Thursday, March 27th, Opening Day brings regular season baseball to the masses. In the Bronx, the New York Yankees and Milwaukee Brewers will do battle in an interleague match-up of teams hoping to forget about their previous disappointing playoff exits. In Houston, the new-look Astros will get a first glance at the New York Mets and their new 765 million dollar man: Juan Soto.
Two Notable 2025 MLB Rule Changes
Despite a few minor MLB rule changes 2025 is shaping up to be another fascinating season. If anything, these adjustments should be fan-friendly, promising to speed up the pace of play and improve the on-field action.
1. The first big change for 2025 involves the fielding team; specifically, what should happen if an illegally shifted player is the first one to touch a ball in play. For example: if the shortstop begins a play on the second-base side of the bag (and is the first fielder to touch a batted ball), the hitting team can opt to take the result of the play (if it's a hit), or elect to have the batter take a free base, and any other base runners are allowed to advance one base.
2. The other rule change involves base runners attempting to run through the second or third-base bags on a force play. It's a rare occurrence, but it can happen when a player attempts to bait the fielding team into focusing on an out, instead of a runner ahead. Should a base runner overrun the base on a force play — even if safe — the umpire can rule this as abandoning the bag. This rule may seem odd and may not even come into play, but fans should still be aware of it.
Who Will Break Out in 2025?
Any 2025 MLB season predictions must begin with the defending champion Dodgers. Somehow, this awe-inspiring team could be even better in 2025, thanks to the free-agent additions of two-time Cy Young winner Blake Snell, Japanese pitching wunderkind Roki Sasaki, and bullpen arms Kirby Yates and Tanner Scott.
Who has the best chance to unseat the Dodgers as National League champions? There's an argument to be made for the previously mentioned Mets. This team broke the bank for the supremely talented Juan Soto and will bring back Pete Alonso to give him some protection in the lineup. Despite all this, the Mets may not even win their own division.
The Atlanta Braves could have Spencer Strider back by May, joining a rotation that already includes the resurgent Chris Sale. Ronald Acuna is also set to return from injury, and, if the Braves' still-young core can stay healthy, they'll pose the biggest threat to the Dodgers' dominance. Of course, the hard-charging Phillies and Bryce Harper may have something to say about that.
In the American League, the Yankees said goodbye to Soto, but hello to Max Fried, Devin Williams, Cody Bellinger, and Paul Goldschmidt. As long as they have Aaron Judge and Gerrit Cole, the Bronx Bombers will always be a favorite for the AL pennant.
Baltimore will be hot on their heels in a loaded American League East — and the winner of the shockingly competitive AL Central could give anyone fits in the playoffs; it's just a question of who that could be. Houston lost Kyle Tucker but added Isaac Paredes and Christian Walker. The Mariners may be in trouble if they can find some offense to complement Julio Rodriguez. Should the Yankees falter, the race for American League supremacy could remain wide open.
Grab Your 2025 MLB Gear in Time for Opening Day
Cutter & Buck has everything that style-focused baseball fans need to survive those chilly opening weeks of the season. This is also a great time to prepare for the sweltering heat, which is bound to arrive in time for the dog days of summer.
Stay Versatile with Classic Yankee Fan Gear
Yankee fans should reach for Cutter & Buck's recycled quarter zip men's Yankees pullover to stay warm during those chilly April (and October) evenings at the park. It's perfect for leisurely outdoor activities but stylish enough for any function where business casual is desired.
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Available in three iconic colors synonymous with the Yankees
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Water-resistant in case of a rain delay at the ballpark
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Soft enough to use as a base layer on colder days and nights
Stay Comfortable in the Sun In Standout Dodgers Styles
Is there anything better than baseball on a warm and sunny day? For Dodgers fans, those days are plentiful — and there's no better way to keep cool and comfortable than with this Cooperstown women's short-sleeve Dodgers polo. With UPF 45+ UV sun protection and DryTec moisture-wicking, and princess seams, comfort and style can both be achieved.
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UPF 45+ UV protection fights off LA sun rays
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Stay cool under the collar with moisture-wicking fabric that keeps sweat in the on-deck circle
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The 100% polyester material stretches and flexes for ultimate comfort
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Flattering princess seams
Enjoy All The Excitement of the 2025 MLB Season
With rule changes, the pace of play moving as fast as ever, major free-agent signings, and exciting young players, the 2025 MLB season is set up to be uniquely exciting and memorable. Whether you’re a fan of a World Series contender or a team looking to break through and finally make the playoffs, fresh MLB gear can get your season off to the right start. Explore exclusive collections like our City Connect, MLB Stars, and Cooperstown, along with premium-crafted, ever-versatile options for all 30 MLB teams.
