The 2025 Major League Baseball (MLB) season officially kicks off on March 28, 2025, marking the start of an exhilarating six-month journey for fans and players alike. This year, the excitement is palpable as the San Francisco Giants' Lee Jung-hoo and the Pittsburgh Pirates' Bae Ji-hwan have made it to the opening roster, promising to bring their A-game to the diamond. Meanwhile, the highest-paid player on the Tampa Bay Rays, Kim Ha-seong, is anticipated to join the fray in May after recovering from injury.
While the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago Cubs had a taste of the action with their Tokyo Series on March 18-19, which was part of a global promotional effort, the real action begins on American soil with all 30 teams set to compete. Each team will play 162 games, culminating in a thrilling postseason that will see 12 teams vying for the coveted World Series title.
Lee Jung-hoo, who signed a lucrative six-year, $113 million contract with the Giants last December, is looking to make a significant impact this season. After a frustrating debut season cut short by a shoulder injury sustained in May 2024, Jung-hoo is eager to showcase his talents. He stated, "I feel really good. I have received great support from the team and I'm ready to give back on the field." His spring training stats reflect his readiness, as he posted a batting average of .250 with two home runs and five RBIs, alongside an OPS of .829.
As the likely starting center fielder and batting third in the lineup, Jung-hoo's performance will be critical for the Giants, who are aiming for postseason success for the first time in four years. He expressed confidence in his abilities, saying, "I will show the team what they expect from me every game. I will perform beautifully at Oracle Park." The Giants kick off their season against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park in Ohio.
On the other hand, Bae Ji-hwan has also secured a spot on the opening roster, marking his return to the big leagues after two years. His impressive spring training performance, where he boasted a batting average of .381 with one home run and four RBIs, has garnered attention. Bae's speed and versatility are expected to be assets as he takes on a backup role, contributing to the Pirates' efforts as they begin their season on the road against the Miami Marlins.
Meanwhile, Kim Ha-seong, who signed a two-year, $29 million deal with Tampa Bay, is on the mend and is expected to return to action by late April or early May. Having undergone surgery for a shoulder injury last season, Kim is focused on regaining his form. He mentioned, "Getting my body back to 100% is the most important thing. I’m not rushing it." With his contract allowing for an opt-out after this season, there is a lot at stake for Kim as he looks to prove his worth and potentially secure a larger deal.
In contrast, Kim Hye-seong, who joined the Dodgers through the posting system, will begin the season in the minor leagues after struggling during spring training with a .207 batting average. Despite his challenges, he remains hopeful about making an impact when he gets the call-up to the big leagues. The Dodgers, who are coming off a World Series victory and have bolstered their roster with superstar Shohei Ohtani, are looking to repeat their success, making the competition fierce.
As the season unfolds, the MLB landscape will be shaped by these players and their performances. The anticipation is high, not just for the teams but also for the fans who are eager to witness the drama and excitement that the 2025 season promises. With the Dodgers aiming for their eighth World Series win and other teams like the Atlanta Braves, New York Mets, and Philadelphia Phillies looking to dethrone them, every game counts.
The All-Star Game is set for July 16, 2025, at Truist Park in Atlanta, and the postseason will feature a total of 12 teams, including the six division winners and the next six best teams across the leagues. As the MLB season launches, fans can expect a thrilling ride filled with unforgettable moments, fierce rivalries, and the emergence of new stars.
In conclusion, the 2025 MLB season is poised to be a memorable one, with Korean players like Lee Jung-hoo and Bae Ji-hwan taking center stage. Their journeys, alongside the challenges faced by Kim Ha-seong and Kim Hye-seong, highlight the ever-evolving nature of baseball. As the first pitch is thrown on March 28, the excitement of America's pastime continues to grow, promising a season filled with passion and competition.
