The MLB World Tour is coming to four international destinations in 2024: London, Mexico City, Seoul and Santo Domingo.
Major League Baseball announces a spring training game will be played at the Santo Domingo Quisqueya Juan Marichal Ball Park. Boston Red Sox and Tampa Rays are scheduled for a game on 9 and 10 March 2024.
“We can’t wait to celebrate the tradition of the sport in the Dominican Republic with our visit to Santo Domingo next March. We are thrilled that our fans across four different countries outside the United States and Canada will have the opportunity to see the game’s stars,” said Rob Manfred, MLB commissioner in the announcement.
The last time two Major League Baseball organizations played in the Dominican Republic was in 2020, when the Detroit Tigers and Minnesota Twins faced each other at Quisqueya Stadium in a game that involved 18 Dominicans on the rosters.
The MLB World Tour will land in four destinations outside the United States and Canada in 2024: Mexico City, Santo Domingo, London and Seoul.
Dominican Republic Series: Red Sox vs. Rays, 9-10 March 9-10 (Spring Training)
Seoul Series: Dodgers vs. Padres, 20-21 March (MLB Season Opener)
Mexico City Series: Astros vs. Rockies, 27-28 April
London Series: Mets vs. Phillies, 8-9 June
Although the games in the Dominican Republic will be the only ones that will not count toward next season’s regular schedule, this mini-series could continue to open the door for a possible regular season series, and, subsequently a leg of the next World Baseball Classic in 2026, Hoy reports.
Red Sox president Sam Kennedy said on the Santo Domingo games: “This unique opportunity builds on our long-standing connection to the Dominican Republic and allows us to celebrate the remarkable talents and rich cultural heritage of a country whose passion for the game has distinctly shaped our organization.” He added: “From the players who have passed through our Dominican Republic Academy to those who have helped us win championships, we have been fortunate to witness the profound impact of Dominican players within our game, and we are thrilled to be able to bring Red Sox baseball to such a vibrant baseball community next year.”
13 July 2023