What's Happening?
The 2025 World Series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Toronto Blue Jays captivated audiences worldwide, drawing approximately 238 million viewers, or 34 million per game. This marked the largest World Series audience since 1992 and a 19% increase
from the previous year. The series featured star players like Shohei Ohtani and World Series MVP Yoshinobu Yamamoto, contributing to its global appeal. The Dodgers' reputation as MLB 'villains' and the Blue Jays' dynamic offense added to the intrigue. The series also saw significant viewership from Canada and Japan, with Game 7 attracting 11.6 million Canadian viewers and Japanese viewership peaking at 13.1 million for Game 6.
Why It's Important?
The high viewership numbers highlight the enduring global appeal of Major League Baseball, particularly when featuring international stars and competitive matchups. The involvement of a Canadian team in the World Series significantly boosted viewership in Canada, while the presence of Japanese players drew substantial audiences from Japan. This trend underscores the importance of international players in expanding MLB's global reach and enhancing its marketability. The increase in viewership among younger demographics in the U.S. also suggests a growing interest in baseball among new generations, which is crucial for the sport's long-term popularity and financial success.
Beyond the Headlines
The 2025 World Series viewership surge may prompt MLB to further explore international markets and invest in promoting the sport globally. The success of international players like Ohtani and Yamamoto could lead to increased scouting and recruitment efforts in countries with emerging baseball talent. Additionally, the series' popularity among younger viewers may influence MLB's marketing strategies, focusing on digital platforms and youth engagement to sustain and grow its fan base.
