MLB 2025 Season Kicks Off with Thrilling Opening Day Highlights

NEW YORK, NY — Major League Baseball’s (MLB) 2025 season commenced with a 14-game slate on March 28, featuring live updates and coverage from The Athletic’s MLB staff. The excitement of Opening Day was palpable, with fans witnessing multiple pitching duels and pivotal player debuts.

This year’s Opening Day marked J.C. Escarra’s first game in the majors, transitioning from part-time independent league player and substitute teacher to backup catcher for the New York Yankees. Escarra shared his experience of arriving at Yankee Stadium, recalling, “I got down there and there’s an Uber black luxury (car) waiting for me.” He reflected on driving for Uber and imagining the notable figures he might have accommodated.

With the day’s pitching matchups taking center stage, several aces highlighted the roster. Noteworthy matchups included Tarik Skubal of the Detroit Tigers facing off against Blake Snell of the Los Angeles Dodgers, while Paul Skenes of the Pittsburgh Pirates took on Sandy Alcantara of the Miami Marlins. Skenes is considered a favorite for the NL Cy Young Award after a stellar 2023 season with a 1.96 ERA and 170 strikeouts. His performance against Alcantara, who is returning from Tommy John surgery, was highly anticipated.

The Philadelphia Phillies‘ Zack Wheeler was pitted against the Washington Nationals‘ MacKenzie Gore, and Clay Holmes of the New York Mets faced Framber Valdez of the Houston Astros. Lastly, Garrett Crochet of the Boston Red Sox battled Nathan Eovaldi of the Texas Rangers, adding an array of talent to the day’s festivities.

Meanwhile, a notable side story unfolded regarding Toronto Blue Jays’ manager John Schneider, who addressed his team about potential fan reactions during the national anthem prior to their opener against the Baltimore Orioles. “It’s unfortunate, but we’re focusing on the game,” Schneider stated, highlighting the political undercurrents affecting reactions to the anthem at Canadian sporting events.

In player news, Tyler O'Neill, the Orioles’ new left fielder, seeks to extend his record of homering in five consecutive Opening Day games. After signing a three-year, $49 million contract, O’Neill is optimistic despite facing off against Blue Jays ace José Berríos, who allowed the second-most home runs in the AL last season.

The New York Yankees, despite a successful 2024 season that saw them win the AL East title, might face challenges this year following the departure of Juan Soto and the absence of Gerrit Cole. Fan opinions vary on the Yankees’ prospects as they look towards another postseason opportunity.

In other transactions, former No. 1 MLB draft pick Mickey Moniak was signed by the Colorado Rockies after being released by the Los Angeles Angels, securing a deal worth $1.25 million and finding a spot on their Opening Day roster.

As the dust settles on the first day of the 2025 season, the stories and performances will continue to captivate fans. With predictions from The Athletic’s staff revealing diverse expectations for major awards and winners, the road ahead will be watched closely by baseball enthusiasts. Notably, Bobby Witt Jr. is highlighted as a continued young star to follow, while the overall impact of new and returning talent will shape the narrative of this season.