MLB Mexico City Series Returns 2026: Padres vs D-backs

The MLB WORLD TOUR is heading back to one of its most electric new stages. The league just confirmed that the Arizona Diamondbacks and San Diego Padres will square off in the 2026 Mexico City Series.

They’ll play a two-game set on April 25–26 at Estadio Alfredo Harp Helú in Mexico City. These games count as home games for the Diamondbacks and signal another big step in Major League Baseball’s push to expand its global reach—and, honestly, to connect with Mexico’s passionate baseball fans.

MLB Mexico City Series 2026: Dates, Venue, and Format

This 2026 Mexico City Series really cements MLB’s plan to bring meaningful regular-season games outside the U.S. These aren’t just exhibitions or warm-ups—they’re real, full-weight games in a market that feels ready for the spotlight.

When and Where Diamondbacks vs. Padres Will Play

The Diamondbacks and Padres will meet on April 25 and 26, 2026, at Estadio Alfredo Harp Helú. It’s a modern ballpark and home to the Mexican League’s Diablos Rojos del México.

The series is part of the MLB WORLD TOUR, the league’s ongoing push to stage big events all over the world. Both contests will be home games for Arizona, which matters for the standings, travel, and even season-ticket holders.

For fans in Mexico City, it’s a legit chance to catch real MLB action in a stadium known for its energy and, let’s be honest, some wild, altitude-fueled games.

Mexico City’s Growing Role in MLB’s Global Strategy

MLB’s relationship with Mexico keeps evolving—from occasional visits to something that feels pretty strategic. Mexico City, especially, has become a key part of that international plan.

A Third Straight Year of Regular-Season Baseball in Mexico City

The 2026 matchup will be MLB’s third regular-season visit to Mexico City:

  • 2023: San Diego Padres vs. San Francisco Giants
  • 2024: Houston Astros vs. Colorado Rockies
  • 2026: Arizona Diamondbacks vs. San Diego Padres
  • By coming back each year, MLB makes it clear—Mexico City isn’t just a special stop, it’s a regular stage for big-league baseball. The city’s high elevation and lively crowds have already turned games there into must-watch events, with plenty of fireworks and atmosphere that rivals a lot of U.S. ballparks.

    Arizona Diamondbacks: Deep Roots in Mexican Baseball

    For the Diamondbacks, this trip feels more like picking up where they left off than starting something new. They’ve been building ties with Mexico and its baseball culture for a while now.

    A History of International Play and Cross-Border Connections

    The Diamondbacks last played internationally in Monterrey, Mexico, in 2019. That’s just part of a pattern—they’ve played in Mexico and other countries, making their brand familiar south of the border.

    Team president Derrick Hall often talks about the club’s focus on expanding in Mexico. From youth baseball to big-league games like this, it’s clear that growing the Diamondbacks’ fan base across the border isn’t a side project—it’s part of the organization’s identity.

    The 2026 series fits right into that vision.

    San Diego Padres: A True International Brand

    If any franchise is built for the cross-border spotlight, it’s the San Diego Padres. Their home city sits just minutes from the Mexican border, and their fan base has always stretched across two countries.

    From Seoul to Mexico City: Padres’ Global Footprint

    The Mexico City Series will be the Padres’ first international games since they opened the 2024 MLB season in Seoul, South Korea. That trip highlighted San Diego’s role as a real global ambassador for MLB.

    The Padres have logged plenty of miles, playing in places like:

  • Mexico City
  • Monterrey, Mexico
  • Beijing, China
  • Other international venues
  • Padres CEO Erik Greupner always points out how important it is to celebrate the club’s bi-national fan base and help baseball reach new audiences. The 2026 Mexico City Series gives the Padres another chance to connect with Mexican and international fans who already see them as more than just a local team.

    Tickets, Access, and How to Be Part of the 2026 Mexico City Series

    Demand’s going to be high, so if you want to be there in person, you’ll need to plan ahead. It won’t be easy to snag a spot at this cross-border showdown.

    Key Ticket Information and Where to Buy

    Tickets for the 2026 Mexico City Series go on sale January 19 through Ticketmaster. If you’re hoping to go, mark your calendar—these games usually spark a ton of excitement and sell out fast.

    You’ll find more info, like ticket links and travel tips, at MLB.com/Mexico. Diamondbacks and Padres fans thinking about making the trip—or anyone in Mexico ready to catch MLB stars in person—can expect more than just two games. It’s really shaping up to be a full-on baseball celebration.

     
    Here is the source article for this story: Mexico City Series returns in ’26, to feature Padres and D-backs

    Scroll to Top