Excitement is building as Major League Baseball gets ready to kick off the 2025 season in an extraordinary way! The Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs are set to light up the Tokyo Dome with two thrilling games on March 26th and 27th, 2025. This unique event marks an exciting opportunity for baseball enthusiasts in Japan, showcasing top-tier talent from both American and Japanese players.
Why is MLB Doing This?
MLB has taken significant steps to expand its reach across the globe, and hosting this season opener in Tokyo is a central part of that strategy. By featuring games in Japan, MLB reinforces its commitment to connecting with international fans and celebrating the sport’s popularity in different cultures. The presence of star players, especially Shohei Ohtani, a sensation in Japan, helps amplify this celebration of baseball as a global sport.
Who Will Be Pitching in Tokyo?
Baseball fans can expect an exciting pitching showdown in this series! The Dodgers will have Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Roki Sasaki on the mound, both of whom are well-regarded in the league for their strong performances. On the other side, the Cubs will count on Shota Imanaga and Justin Steele to bring their best to the game. Even though some stars like Clayton Kershaw and Tony Gonsolin won’t be able to play for the Dodgers, the roster is filled with talent that promises an exhilarating match.
Who Are the New Faces on These Teams?
The teams have made some interesting changes during the offseason, bringing in fresh faces that fans are eager to see in action. For the Dodgers, new additions include Blake Snell, Kirby Yates, Tanner Scott, Michael Conforto, and Hyeseong Kim. Meanwhile, the Cubs have also strengthened their squad by acquiring Kyle Tucker, Justin Turner, Ryan Pressly, Matthew Boyd, and Matt Shaw. These players are ready to make their mark in Japan!
Who Will We Not See in Tokyo?
Every team faces challenges with injuries, and this series is no exception. Unfortunately, key players for both teams will be unable to compete. For the Dodgers, Mookie Betts is sitting out due to illness, and pitchers Clayton Kershaw and Tony Gonsolin won’t be playing either. On the Cubs’ side, Nico Hoerner and Javier Assad are sidelined due to injuries. While this may impact the teams, the games still promise to be filled with action and excitement!
What’s the Latest on Shohei Ohtani?
Shohei Ohtani, the accomplished dual-threat player, has been a focal point of excitement. Although he successfully hit a home run in an exhibition game showcasing his batting prowess, Ohtani is still recovering from surgery on his elbow and shoulder. His pitching status remains uncertain, leaving fans eager yet anxious about his participation. The series in Tokyo offers a unique platform to see how he bounces back in a new season, regardless of his availability on the mound.
How to Catch the Action
Don’t forget, the games will start at 6:10 a.m. ET, which can be quite an early start for some fans! But don’t worry; you can catch all the action on various platforms. The series will be broadcast live on TV, and fans can also stream the games through various online services. For those who prefer a more traditional approach, radio coverage will keep you updated on the plays as they happen!
Final Thoughts
This two-game series between the Dodgers and Cubs promises to be a remarkable kick-off to the MLB 2025 season. It showcases not only the talent within the teams but also the rich culture of baseball that connects fans across the world. So mark your calendars and get ready for some unforgettable baseball moments from Tokyo!