MLB Launches Anime Campaign Featuring Ohtani, Judge, Soto, and Skenes

The 'Heroes of the Game' campaign debuts to deepen engagement with Japanese fans and expand MLB's global reach through culturally resonant storytelling.

MLB's 'Heroes of the Game' anime campaign was officially launched on March 26, 2025, featuring Shohei Ohtani, Aaron Judge, Juan Soto, and Paul Skenes as animated characters on missions for the 2025 season.
The campaign leverages anime's distinctive visual style and storytelling, created in collaboration with Japanese studios and artists known for their work on 'One Piece' and 'Fullmetal Alchemist.'
Digital video placements for the campaign are live in prominent global locations, including Shibuya (Tokyo), Times Square (New York), Museo Soumaya (Mexico City), and London.
The initiative ties into MLB's broader 'Baseball is Something Else' branding strategy, aiming to modernize the sport's image and engage younger, diverse audiences worldwide.
Additional content featuring stars like Mike Trout, Elly De La Cruz, Jose Altuve, and Bryce Harper is planned for release throughout the 2025 season.