In baseball, spring training ranks among the most thrilling periods as teams gear up for the lengthy season. This annual event is vital for enabling players to shake off off-season rust, allowing teams to assess talent, experiment with various strategies, and observe veterans and rookies in real-game contexts. The 2025 MLB spring training holds particular importance as it will feature some of baseball’s top stars, including Yankees pitcher Gerrit Cole and Braves outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr., returning from injuries. Fans are eager to see if they can maintain their dominance in the game. Additionally, several international players are set to make their MLB debuts, with Japanese star Roki Sasaki joining the Dodgers. With numerous surprises anticipated, the 2025 MLB season promises to keep baseball fans on the edge.
Now, let’s review what transpired from March 3 to March 6 before previewing the games lined up for March 7. On March 3, 2024, the New York Mets clashed with the New York Marlins, concluding in a 1-1 draw. The significant takeaway from this matchup is that both teams exhibit solid pitching depth but will need enhanced offensive firepower as spring training advances. For the Pittsburgh Pirates, rookie pitcher Paul Skenes continued his impressive show; he was last year’s first overall draft pick. He struck out five batters in just two innings, showcasing a nasty cutter. Should he maintain this level of performance, he could secure a place in the Pirates’ starting rotation sooner than anticipated. A rising prospect, Cade Povich of the Baltimore Orioles, also delivered a stellar game. He pitched three scoreless innings, fanning six batters, and his ability to vary fastballs and off-speed pitches kept hitters guessing. If Baltimore requires another strong arm in their rotation, Povich might be their solution.
On March 4, 2025, the Los Angeles Dodgers faced off against the Cincinnati Reds, securing a victory with a 4-2 score. The baseball community was excited as Roki Sasaki made his MLB spring training debut for the Dodgers. The Japanese pitcher met expectations, pitching three scoreless innings while striking out five batters. His fastball hit 99.3 mph, and his signature splitter left Reds hitters swinging at thin air. Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman delivered key RBIs to help the Dodgers clinch the win. Elly De La Cruz hit a solo home run for the Reds, demonstrating why he is one of baseball’s most thrilling young talents.
On March 5, 2025, the Seattle Mariners fell to the Kansas City Royals with a score of 9-6. This game was heavily focused on offense. The Royals’ young shortstop, Bobby Witt Jr., stole two bases and knocked in three runs, leading Kansas City to a win. Julio Rodríguez smashed two home runs on the Mariners’ side, reminding everyone of his superstar potential. Seattle’s bullpen struggled in the game’s later stages, conceding multiple runs in the final innings. If the Mariners aim to compete this season, they must establish greater consistency in their relief pitching. Another notable match occurred when the Philadelphia Phillies took on the Detroit Tigers, who triumphed with a score of 17-7. This game showcased an offensive explosion from the Detroit Tigers, who amassed 17 runs on 17 hits, with home runs from Jahmai Jones, Andy Ibáñez, and Gleyber Torres. Conversely, the Phillies endured pitching woes, as starter Jesús Luzardo was pulled after yielding six runs in two innings. Detroit’s offense appears formidable heading into the regular season, whereas Philadelphia must resolve its pitching challenges and struggles.
Oakland Athletics vs. Cleveland Guardians
The Oakland Athletics will compete against the Cleveland Guardians on March 7, 2025, at HoHoKam Stadium (Mesa, AZ) during the eagerly awaited MLB spring training 2025. Over the past few seasons, the Oakland Athletics have been undergoing a rebuilding phase. In 2024, they brought in several top prospects, such as infielder Zack Gelof and outfielder Lawrence Butler, striving to revitalize their lineup. However, despite these initiatives, the team faced challenges and ended up with one of the lowest records in the league. During Spring Training 2025, they are concentrating on blending young talent with seasoned players to create a more competitive team.
Conversely, the Cleveland Guardians have been more competitive in recent years. They have consistently demonstrated strong pitching and a well-rounded lineup. The Guardians are looking to refine their roster during Spring Training to improve on weaknesses and enhance their strengths. Osvaldo Bido is the likely starter for the Oakland Athletics, while Joey Cantillo is expected to start for the Cleveland Guardians. Given the Cleveland Guardians’ recent performance, they may have the advantage in this matchup.
Chicago White Sox vs. Chicago Cubs
The Chicago White Sox and Chicago Cubs will face off in the MLB spring training game on March 7, 2025, at Camelback Ranch in Glendale, AZ. The White Sox are looking to bounce back from a tough 2024 season during which they struggled to maintain consistency. They made considerable off-season adjustments, concentrating on enhancing their pitching rotation and expanding their lineup depth. In contrast, the Cubs enjoyed a more substantial 2024 season, ending with a commendable record.
The Cubs have also been busy this offseason, bringing in key player Kyle Tucker to boost their offense. With a blend of seasoned players and rising stars like Pete Crow-Armstrong, the Cubs aim to build momentum as they approach the regular season. The Cubs will likely start Colin Rea for this game, while Shane Smith is expected to pitch for the White Sox. Given their balanced lineup and augmented bullpen, the Cubs have a better chance of winning in this matchup.
Cincinnati Reds vs. San Francisco Giants
During MLB spring training, fans can look forward to the matchup between the Cincinnati Reds and San Francisco Giants on March 7, 2025, at Goodyear Ballpark in Goodyear, AZ. The Reds enter this game following their second consecutive loss to the Texas Rangers, ending with a score of 5-3. Last season, they finished with 77 wins and 85 losses, placing them second to last in the National League Central. Conversely, the Giants recently prevailed over the Chicago White Sox, commanding a 7-3 victory. In the 2024 MLB season, they secured fourth place in the National League West, boasting a record of 80 wins and 82 losses.
Although Spring Training games are unpredictable due to constant lineup changes and player experimentation, the Giants appear to have an advantage in this contest. Their depth and experience could provide a significant edge over the Reds, who are still rebuilding. Nonetheless, the Reds’ young talent may surprise everyone, leading to a closely fought game. While the Giants are likely to take the win, the primary focus will be on individual performances and how players adapt to in-game situations, making this contest more about preparation for the regular season rather than the final score season.
Detroit Tigers vs. Baltimore Orioles
At Joker Marchant Stadium in Florida, the Detroit Tigers will face off against the Baltimore Orioles on March 7, 2025, as part of MLB Spring Training 2025. The Orioles are coming off a stellar 2024 season, with a record of 91 wins and 71 losses, showcasing strong performances at home and on the road. However, they enter this matchup after defeating the Pittsburgh Pirates, losing 5-9. Meanwhile, the Detroit Tigers closed their 2024 regular season with 86 wins and 76 losses.
In their previous Spring Training game, the Tigers broke a two-game losing streak by defeating the Philadelphia Phillies 17-7. Dean Kremer is expected to start for the Tigers, while Keider Montero is slated to pitch for the Orioles. In their last encounter, the Orioles narrowly defeated the Tigers, scoring 8-7. Given their recent performances, the Baltimore Orioles have an advantage in this upcoming game.
Seattle Mariners vs. Los Angeles Dodgers
On March 7, 2025, the Seattle Mariners will face the Los Angeles Dodgers at Peoria Sports Complex in Peoria, AZ. As the defending champions, the Mariners have started their MLB Spring Training impressively, winning seven games in a row. However, their recent form has been mixed; in the last five matches, they secured one win, one draw and suffered three losses. The Mariners’ roster includes many young talents and features a blend of seasoned pitchers and emerging stars, which offers them both versatility and a chance for domination.
Despite this talent, the Mariners have encountered challenges with offensive consistency, which may be a disadvantage against the Dodgers’ robust pitching. On the other hand, the Los Angeles Dodgers present a lineup skilled at performing in high-pressure situations, bolstered by Roki Sasaki, who enhances their already strong pitching staff. However, prioritizing player health during spring training remains essential. Consequently, the Los Angeles Dodgers are favored to win this matchup.
Atlanta Braves vs. Pittsburgh Pirates
On March 7, 2025, the Atlanta Braves will face the Pittsburgh Pirates at CoolToday Park in North Port, FL, during MLB Spring Training 2025. The Braves, renowned for their formidable roster featuring stars like Ronald Acuña Jr. and Matt Olson, aim to refine their lineup and sustain their dominance in the National League East. Their pitching staff, spearheaded by Max Fried and Spencer Strider, continues to be a significant asset, and this matchup will provide an opportunity to assess their overall depth. In contrast, the Pirates are rebuilding but have displayed potential with emerging talents like Oneil Cruz and Henry Davis.
This game presents a chance for their prospects to shine and advocate for positions in the regular season. Although the Braves possess more fabulous experience and star presence, the Pirates’ youthful energy could create a competitive atmosphere. Due to lineup experiments, Spring Training games can be unpredictable, yet the Braves’ depth and well-rounded roster give them an advantage. Regardless of the final score, the emphasis will be on individual performances and players’ ability to adapt to game scenarios as both teams prepare for the upcoming regular season.
Milwaukee Brewers vs. San Diego Padres
The Milwaukee Brewers and San Diego Padres will compete on March 7, 2025, during a Spring Training game at American Family Fields of Phoenix. This match allows both teams to assess their rosters and test strategies before the regular season begins. The Brewers, recognized for their reliable pitching and strategic discipline, will depend on key players like Corbin Burnes and Willy Adames to lead the way. Additionally, their eager young prospects introduce an element of surprise. Meanwhile, the Padres showcase star talents such as Fernando Tatis Jr. and Juan Soto, vital to their offensive strength.
Adding Xander Bogaerts enhances their lineup, making them a formidable contender. While the Brewers’ pitching depth offers an advantage, the Padres’ dynamic offense can shift the game in their favor. Spring Training games can be unpredictable due to lineup changes, yet this encounter is expected to be a fiercely competitive showdown. Ultimately, the emphasis will be on individual performances and players’ adaptability during game scenarios rather than the outcome. Both teams aim to gain momentum as they prepare for the upcoming regular season challenges.
