MLB Experiences Record Viewer Growth in 2025 Season

Major League Baseball (MLB) is experiencing a significant surge in viewership during the 2025 season, with notable increases in both the United States and Japan. This uptick is attributed to a combination of dynamic player performances, strategic rule changes, and successful international events.

In the United States, ESPN's broadcast ratings have risen by 22%, averaging 1.74 million viewers per game—the network's best performance since 2017. Fox Sports has seen a 10% increase, averaging 1.84 million viewers per game, while TBS's Tuesday night MLB coverage has grown by 16%. A standout moment was the Los Angeles Dodgers' 18-2 victory over the New York Yankees on Fox, which attracted 2.2 million viewers.

In Japan, NHK's MLB broadcasts are averaging 2.7 million viewers, marking a consistent upward trend since 2021. The 2025 Tokyo Series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs set multiple records, with the opening game averaging over 25 million viewers, making it the most-watched MLB game ever in Japan. Merchandise sales during the series exceeded previous records by 320%, with Shohei Ohtani's Dodgers jersey being the top seller.

Several factors contribute to this renewed interest in MLB. Charismatic players like Shohei Ohtani, Aaron Judge, Juan Soto, and Elly De La Cruz have captivated audiences with their dynamic performances and engaging personalities. Ohtani's participation in the Tokyo Series significantly boosted viewership, with the opening game setting a new record for MLB games in Japan.

Recent rule changes aimed at enhancing the game's pace have also played a role. The introduction of a pitch clock, larger bases, and the automatic runner in extra innings have collectively reduced the average game duration by over 25 minutes, making the sport more appealing to a broader audience.

Digital streaming platforms have reported increased viewership as well. MLB.TV streamed over 7.5 billion minutes, showing a 27% increase from 2024, indicating a growing trend of fans consuming games through digital means.

The surge in MLB viewership has several broader implications. The increasing popularity of MLB in Japan fosters cultural exchange and strengthens diplomatic ties between the United States and Japan. Higher viewership translates to increased revenue from broadcasting rights, merchandise sales, and tourism, benefiting both the league and host cities. The presence of dynamic players and faster-paced games may inspire younger audiences to engage with baseball, potentially revitalizing the sport's fan base.

MLB's 2025 season has marked a significant uptick in viewership, driven by a confluence of charismatic players, innovative rule changes, and successful international engagements. This trend not only enhances the league's domestic standing but also solidifies its position as a global sporting powerhouse.