Get ready, baseball fans! The Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago Cubs are set to kick off their 2025 MLB season with an exciting two-game series at the iconic Tokyo Dome in Japan. This thrilling matchup will occur on March 26th and 27th, marking a historic moment as these teams help Major League Baseball reach its global audience. Fans are eager to see how these two storied franchises will perform on the international stage, especially with a roster featuring impressive talent and storylines that are sure to capture everyone’s attention.
Why is MLB doing this?
Major League Baseball is making a significant effort to expand its reach beyond the borders of the United States and Canada. By holding games in Japan, MLB is tapping into a passionate baseball culture that has deep roots, showcasing the sport to millions who adore it. With fan bases eagerly awaiting these matchups, the hope is that exciting international series like this will foster global interest in baseball, engage younger audiences, and continue to build connections through this beloved sport.
Who will be pitching in Tokyo?
Fans are looking forward to seeing some incredible pitching talents take the mound in Tokyo. For the Dodgers, the games will feature promising young pitchers Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Roki Sasaki. Yamamoto, who is already making waves, is expected to dazzle fans from the start, while Sasaki will mark his MLB debut in Game 2, which is set to add even more excitement to the series. On the Cubs’ side, Shota Imanaga and Justin Steele are anticipated to step up, leading their team against the talented Dodgers lineup.
Who are the new faces on these teams?
The Dodgers and Cubs have welcomed an array of new talent this season that will be on display in Tokyo. The Dodgers made notable additions like Blake Snell, whose pitching prowess could elevate their game strategy, and Michael Conforto, whose hitting skills will be crucial in the offensive lineup. Another exciting name to watch is Kirby Yates, adding depth to their bullpen. On the Cubs’ side, Kyle Tucker is a standout acquisition, along with Justin Turner and Ryan Pressly, who aim to make an immediate impact. Their journey in this series will be closely monitored as fans eagerly await how these newcomers integrate with the existing roster.
Who will we not see in Tokyo?
Not every star player will be joining their teams in Tokyo, as both the Dodgers and Cubs are facing some unfortunate absences. Mookie Betts, a fan favorite and skilled outfielder for the Dodgers, will be sidelined due to illness, which is undoubtedly a blow for the team. Additionally, the iconic Clayton Kershaw and rising star Tony Gonsolin will also be unavailable, affecting the depth of their pitching options. On the Cubs’ side, even newcomers like Kyle Tucker will have to step up to fill the gaps left by those notable absences.
What’s the latest on Shohei Ohtani?
Fans are buzzing about the presence of Shohei Ohtani, the mighty hitter who won the 2021 AL MVP award, but caution is essential as he won’t be pitching due to an ongoing injury recovery. Nevertheless, his participation will bring a sense of excitement to the games, as he is expected to contribute in other ways. Ohtani’s tremendous talent has enchanted crowds worldwide, and while he might not be on the mound, his presence in the dugout will surely inspire fans and players alike.
| Team | Pitcher (Game 1) | Pitcher (Game 2) | TV Broadcast |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles Dodgers | Yoshinobu Yamamoto | Roki Sasaki | Fox (Game 1), FS1 (Game 2) |
| Chicago Cubs | Shota Imanaga | N/A | Fox (Game 1), FS1 (Game 2) |
This two-game series between the Dodgers and the Cubs promises to be a thrilling kick-off to the 2025 MLB season, offering fans a front-row seat to a unique blend of talent, excitement, and international sportsmanship. Don’t miss out on catching the action on March 26th and 27th! Whether you’re watching live or following along from home, there’s no doubt that this Tokyo Series will be a highlight of the MLB calendar.
