The 2025 Major League Baseball (MLB) season is set to commence with a historic two-game series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs at Tokyo Dome in Japan next Tuesday and Wednesday. This event marks the sixth time MLB has opened its season in Japan, following previous occasions in 2000, 2004, 2008, 2012, and 2019. The series not only underscores MLB’s commitment to globalizing the sport but also highlights the deep baseball ties between the United States and Japan.
The Dodgers, reigning World Series champions, are making their fourth overseas appearance but their first in Japan. Their previous international games include matchups in Sydney (2014), Monterrey (2018), and Seoul (2024). The Cubs, on the other hand, are returning to Tokyo for the second time, having previously played there in 2000. They also participated in the London Series in 2023. This Tokyo Series is particularly significant as it features the largest contingent of Japanese players in an MLB season opener held in Japan. The Dodgers’ roster boasts stars like Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Roki Sasaki, while the Cubs feature Seiya Suzuki and Shota Imanaga. Notably, Suzuki hails from Arakawa, Tokyo, making this a special homecoming for him.
The Dodgers’ roster is a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talents. Shohei Ohtani, a three-time MVP, continues to dazzle fans with his prowess both on the mound and at the plate. His return to Japan is highly anticipated, especially after an impressive season with the Dodgers. Joining him are pitchers Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Roki Sasaki, both of whom have transitioned from successful careers in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) to MLB. Their familiarity with Japanese playing conditions could provide the Dodgers with a strategic advantage in the series.
The Cubs have also fortified their lineup with notable Japanese talent. Outfielder Seiya Suzuki, known for his consistent batting and defensive skills, has been instrumental in bridging the gap between NPB and MLB. Pitcher Shota Imanaga adds depth to the Cubs’ rotation, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his tenure in Japan. Their presence not only strengthens the Cubs’ roster but also resonates with Japanese fans, enhancing the cultural significance of the series.
Both teams have undergone roster adjustments leading up to the Tokyo Series. The Dodgers signed manager Dave Roberts to a four-year, $32.4 million contract, ensuring leadership stability. They also secured veteran pitcher Clayton Kershaw, who is still recovering from knee and toe surgeries back in November, on a one-year $7.5 million deal and utility player Kiké Hernández for one year at $6.5 million. However, the team also faces challenges with injuries to pitchers River Ryan and Gavin Stone, both placed on the 60-day injured list.
The Cubs, meanwhile, are exploring options to bolster their pitching staff. Discussions about signing veteran pitcher Lance Lynn have surfaced, though his recent performance has shown signs of decline. The Cubs already possess pitching depth with prospects like Ben Brown, Jordan Wicks, and Cade Horton, leading to debates about the necessity of adding Lynn to the roster.
The Tokyo Series is more than just a season opener; it’s a celebration of baseball’s international appeal. Fans from both nations are eagerly anticipating the matchups, with many traveling to Tokyo to witness the games firsthand. The presence of Japanese superstars has heightened local interest, exemplified by endeavors like the transformation of a dental clinic in Koshigaya into a mini-museum dedicated to Shohei Ohtani. Such initiatives reflect the deep admiration and enthusiasm Japanese fans have for their homegrown talents now shining on the MLB stage.
As the teams prepare for the series, they must also contend with challenges such as jet lag and acclimating to the local environment. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, born in Japan, views this as a special homecoming, with his family in attendance. Both teams will also engage in exhibition games against NPB teams—the Hanshin Tigers and the Yomiuri Giants—on March 15 and 16. These games offer an opportunity for players to adapt to the playing conditions and for fans to enjoy unique matchups between MLB and NPB teams.
Here’s the thing folks: The period between the Tokyo games and the stateside openers allows teams to make final roster adjustments playing out their spring training schedules based on performances and any unforeseen developments. The Dodgers are scheduled to play their home opener on March 27, while the Cubs will host their first game at Wrigley Field on March 31.
With that… The 2025 MLB season promises to be an exciting journey, with the Tokyo Series setting the tone for international collaboration and the global growth of baseball. Fans worldwide will be watching closely as the Dodgers and Cubs make history in Japan, showcasing the sport’s universal language and the unifying power of baseball.
If you cannot play with them, then root for them!