As the sun rises on April 17, 2025, the Liga Mexicana de Beisbol (LMB) embarks on a momentous journey, kicking off its 100th season. The league, which has become a cornerstone of summer baseball in Mexico, is set to celebrate a century of history, passion, and athleticism with a season aptly named "Cien años siendo el Rey" (One Hundred Years of Being the King). This year, the excitement is palpable as fans across the nation gear up for the festivities and competitive action that lie ahead.
The opening game of the season features the reigning champions, Diablos Rojos del México, taking on Leones de Yucatán at the Estadio Alfredo Harp Helú. The Diablos, who ended a ten-year title drought by clinching their 17th championship last year, are determined to make history by becoming the first team to win back-to-back titles since the Saraperos de Saltillo did so in the 2009-2010 season. With a roster that still boasts star players like Robinson Canó and José Marmolejos, the team is poised to defend its crown despite the departure of pitcher Trevor Bauer, who has returned to Japan.
Throughout its storied history, the LMB has showcased the talents of numerous players, and this season is no different. Each of the 20 teams will play a total of 93 games over 31 series, with a mix of thrilling matchups and special events planned to commemorate the centennial. The league's president, Horacio de la Vega, emphasized the significance of this milestone, stating, "This is a league that brings together tradition and modernity, and we are excited to celebrate our history while looking forward to the future of baseball in Mexico."
The regular season will conclude on August 7, leading into a playoff format that begins on August 9, with the Serie del Rey scheduled for September 9-17. In a nod to its centenary, the All-Star Game, set for June 27-29, will feature a unique format where the Mexican national team, led by manager Benjamín Gil, will face off against a selection of LMB All-Stars. The game will span ten innings, celebrating each decade of the league's existence.
In addition to the thrilling on-field action, the LMB has planned a series of special events and initiatives to engage fans. On May 10, players will take the field wielding pink bats to raise awareness for breast cancer, while specially designed jerseys by Mexican artisans will be worn throughout the season. Furthermore, a commemorative coin will be issued, and a Panini album celebrating the centenary will be launched.
As the league prepares for its centennial celebrations, the Charros de Jalisco, who have intermittently participated in the LMB over the past century, are looking to make their mark once again. With two championships under their belt, the Charros are eager to compete at a high level and foster a deeper connection with their fan base. The team’s president, Horacio de la Vega, expressed optimism about their future, stating, "The Charros have a rich history in this league, and with the right investments and player development, they can become a formidable force in summer baseball once again."
The league's commitment to player development is evident, with teams investing in both local talent and international stars. Notable players to watch this season include Harold Ramírez, who joins Tecolotes de Dos Laredos, and Aledmys Díaz, who will bolster the Leones de Yucatán lineup. The introduction of new talents like Francisco Mejía to the Diablos Rojos and Luis Cessa to the Sultanes de Monterrey adds to the excitement surrounding the league.
As the first pitch is thrown, fans are reminded that this season is about more than just the games. It's a celebration of a century of baseball that has brought joy, unity, and pride to countless fans across Mexico. The LMB has stood the test of time, evolving while maintaining its core values, and the 2025 season promises to be a spectacular tribute to its legacy.
Tonight's match between Leones de Yucatán and Diablos Rojos del México is just the beginning. With the regular season set to unfold, fans are encouraged to tune in to watch the action live on ESPN, Disney+, and LMB.TV in Mexico, and on LMB.TV for viewers in the United States and beyond. As the league embarks on this historic season, one thing is certain: the passion for baseball in Mexico remains as strong as ever.
With the LMB celebrating its centenary, the hope is to inspire a new generation of fans and players, ensuring that the love for baseball continues to thrive in the years to come. As teams battle it out for supremacy, the spirit of competition and camaraderie will shine brightly, making the 2025 season a memorable chapter in the annals of Mexican baseball history.
