The Los Angeles Dodgers are embarking on a historic moment as they prepare for their inaugural game on March 26. This event marks a continuation of the team's evolving schedule, which increasingly features early-season matchups. Over the years, the Dodgers have participated in numerous March games, both domestically and internationally, showcasing a strong performance record. Their success in these early encounters, particularly at Dodger Stadium, underscores their consistent competitive edge as the Major League Baseball season commences.
The Dodgers' venture into March regular-season play began in 1998, with an opening game against the St. Louis Cardinals on March 31. This game famously saw Mark McGwire hit the first of his then-record 70 home runs off Ramón Martínez. Subsequent March games followed in 2003, 2008, and 2011, establishing a pattern of early season starts. A significant shift occurred in 2014 when the team played two games in Australia, marking their earliest start before March 31. This global trend continued with international trips to Korea in 2024 and Japan in 2025.
Domestically, the Dodgers have also expanded their March presence, with games in 2014, 2019, and annually from 2023 to 2025. In total, the team has competed in 28 regular season games in March, securing victories in 20 of them. Their performance at Dodger Stadium during March has been particularly impressive, boasting a 14-5 record. A notable individual achievement belongs to Mookie Betts, who is tied with Kyle Schwarber for the most career March home runs, with eight, including two against the Detroit Tigers last season.
The Dodgers have maintained a strong track record on opening days, winning 15 of their last 18, including the most recent four. While recent seasons have seen international openers, such as in Seoul (2024) and Tokyo (2025), their first home game after these trips has consistently been at Dodger Stadium. The only exceptions to this home-opener norm in the past decade were road starts against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field in 2021 and 2022. The 2022 road opener was notably influenced by the MLB lockout, which delayed the season's start.
This year marks the 65th season for Dodger Stadium, and it will be the 32nd occasion that the iconic Chavez Ravine hosts opening day. The Dodgers have historically performed well in these home openers, with a 19-12 record. Their recent form is particularly strong, having won eight of their last nine such openers. Furthermore, the team has claimed victory in each of their last seven home openers in Los Angeles, a streak that dates back to 2019. Since the stadium's inauguration in 1962, the Dodgers hold a favorable 37-27 record in their first game played at the ballpark.
The Los Angeles Dodgers are continuing their tradition of excellence, marked by a growing number of March games and an exceptional record in home openers. Their consistent performance, both in early season matchups and at Dodger Stadium, highlights their enduring strength and competitive spirit in Major League Baseball.
