When Does MLB Start in 2025? Opening Day Schedule & Key Dates

By Sarah Miller · December 15, 2029

Major League Baseball (MLB) 2025 regular season begins on Thursday, March 27, 2025, with multiple opening day games across the U.S. The official start follows a brief spring training period and includes international matchups, such as the Dodgers vs. Padres in South Korea on March 20–21.

When Does MLB Start in 2025?

The 2025 Major League Baseball season officially kicks off on Thursday, March 27, 2025, marking the beginning of the 162-game regular season for all 30 teams. This date aligns with MLB's recent trend of starting the season in late March to maximize the schedule and avoid conflicts with other major sports.

Key Dates for the 2025 MLB Season

Spring Training Start: Mid-February 2025
First Games Abroad: March 20–21, 2025 (Los Angeles Dodgers vs. San Diego Padres in Seoul, South Korea)
Opening Day (U.S.): Thursday, March 27, 2025
All Teams in Action: By Friday, March 28, 2025
World Series: Late October to early November 2025

Why Does MLB Start in Late March?

MLB traditionally starts in late March or early April due to weather conditions, player preparation timelines, and broadcast scheduling. Unlike indoor or cold-weather sports, baseball requires warm climates for outdoor play, especially during the early part of the season.

Factors Influencing the Start Date

Weather Constraints: Northern cities like Chicago, Boston, and Cleveland face unpredictable spring weather, making earlier starts risky.
Spring Training: Players report in mid-February for physical conditioning, exhibition games, and team strategy development.
Broadcast Partnerships: Networks like ESPN, Fox, and Apple TV+ coordinate prime-time slots and weekend broadcasts starting in late March.
International Expansion: Recent seasons have included early overseas games, slightly shifting the calendar forward.

MLB Opening Day Traditions and Significance

Opening Day is considered one of the most cherished days in American sports. It symbolizes renewal, hope, and the return of America’s pastime after winter. Fans attend games in large numbers, and many teams host special ceremonies.

Notable Traditions Include:

The ceremonial first pitch, often thrown by celebrities or local heroes
National anthem performances with military flyovers
Team-specific rituals, such as the Reds’ parade in Cincinnati
Retro uniforms and vintage ballpark experiences

Historical MLB Season Start Dates (2020–2025)

Year	Opening Day	Notes
2020	March 26 (scheduled), played July 23	Delayed due to pandemic; shortened 60-game season
2021	April 1	Slight delay; 14-team playoff format retained
2022	April 7	Lockout-delayed; 162 games completed
2023	March 30	Regular start; Japan opener (Mariners vs. A’s)
2024	March 28	Mexico City Game included in early schedule
2025	March 27	Seoul Series: Dodgers vs. Padres on March 20–21

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows a clear shift toward earlier starts since 2022, driven by international games and expanded broadcast windows. Despite weather challenges, MLB aims to begin closer to March 25 when possible. The 2025 start on March 27 continues this trend while accommodating global fan engagement.

Frequently Asked Questions About When MLB Starts

Does every MLB team play on Opening Day?

Not all 30 teams play on the exact same day, but the majority do. Some teams may begin their season a day later due to travel or scheduling logistics, especially after international openers. However, all teams typically start within the first two days of the official Opening Day.

Why did MLB move Opening Day earlier in recent years?

MLB has gradually moved Opening Day earlier to accommodate international games, increase television viewership, and extend the postseason into November without compressing the schedule. Early-season games in warmer climates or abroad allow for more flexibility and global marketing opportunities.

What time does MLB Opening Day usually start?

Opening Day games typically begin in the afternoon, around 1:05 PM or 1:10 PM local time, with evening games following later. The first game is often televised nationally, and start times vary based on time zones and broadcast agreements.

How long is the MLB regular season?

The MLB regular season consists of 162 games per team, lasting approximately six months from late March to late September or early October. Each team plays 52 games against division rivals, 64 against non-division opponents in their league, and 46 interleague games.

Where can I watch MLB Opening Day games?

Opening Day games are broadcast on national networks including ESPN, Fox Sports, Apple TV+, and local regional sports networks (RSNs). International fans can stream games via MLB.TV (with blackout restrictions). Some early games, like the Seoul Series, may be available on dedicated sports streaming platforms.