As the sun rose on April 18, 2025, the Liga Mexicana de Béisbol (LMB) officially kicked off its centennial season, a momentous occasion for baseball fans across Mexico. The festivities began the day prior at the Estadio Alfredo Harp Helú, where the Diablos Rojos del México faced off against the Leones de Yucatán in the inaugural game, setting the tone for a season steeped in history and excitement.
The Diablos Rojos showcased their dominance in a spectacular fashion, overwhelming the Leones with a staggering 16-1 victory. The game was not just a win; it was a celebration of the team's legacy and a tribute to the retiring pitcher Arturo López, who took the mound for one final inning, leaving the field to thunderous applause from fans.
Francisco Mejía, making his debut for the Diablos, shone brightly, going 5-for-4 with five RBIs, while Luis Liberato also made headlines by hitting the first home run of the 2025 season. The Diablos' offense was relentless, accumulating 20 hits and scoring a remarkable 10 runs in the eighth inning alone, sealing their victory in style. Juan Carlos Gamboa and Robinson Canó also contributed significantly, with Gamboa finishing 5-for-4 and Canó going 5-for-3, both adding to the team's impressive tally.
"I’m proud to be the last manager of Arturo, we won a championship together in Hermosillo in 2006 when he was a kid, and today he is an idol in the history of Diablos Rojos," said manager Lorenzo Bundy, reflecting on the significance of the game and the emotional farewell for López.
As the dust settles from the opening game, the excitement continues with a full slate of matches scheduled for the rest of the league. On April 18, teams across the country will take to the field, including the Dorados de Chihuahua facing off against the Algodoneros de Unión Laguna, and the Saraperos de Saltillo going up against Caliente de Mexicali.
The 2025 season will feature 20 teams, each competing in a total of 93 games divided into 31 series during the regular phase. This structure not only ensures competitive balance but also promises thrilling baseball action right up to the final games of the season.
One of the notable changes this season is the return of Monday night games, with 17 scheduled throughout the campaign. This initiative aims to attract larger audiences during prime viewing hours, offering fans more opportunities to catch their favorite teams in action.
Among the key events to look forward to this season is the Juego de Estrellas (All-Star Game), set to take place from June 27 to June 29 at the Estadio Alfredo Harp Helú, where the best players in the league will compete. The Home Run Derby will also be featured, showcasing the league's top power hitters.
The postseason is slated to begin on August 9, with the Series de Zona kicking off on August 19. Fans will be eagerly awaiting the Serie del Rey, scheduled for September 9 to September 17, which will determine the champion of the Liga Mexicana de Béisbol.
In Tijuana, the Toros will also commence their season on April 18, facing the Rieleros de Aguascalientes at Mobil Park. Under the leadership of returning manager Óscar Robles, the team is eager to rebound from a disappointing 2024 season and aims to secure their third championship title.
"We’ve renewed our coaching staff and practically restructured the entire team. The result is that we have a very talented group, and now we just need to see them in action on the field," said Enrique Cuouh, the team’s general manager, expressing optimism for the upcoming season.
As the 2025 season unfolds, fans can expect thrilling matchups, emotional farewells, and historic moments as the Liga Mexicana de Béisbol celebrates its centenary. The excitement is palpable, and with each game, the legacy of this beloved sport continues to grow.
For those looking to catch the action, the games can be watched on ESPN, Disney+, and LMB.TV in Mexico, as well as on LMB.TV for fans in the United States and around the world.
With the inaugural game behind them and a full slate of action ahead, the Liga Mexicana de Béisbol is ready to make history in 2025. Fans can hardly wait to see how this season unfolds as teams vie for glory in a league that has captured the hearts of millions.
