The 2025 MLB regular season officially kicks off with the highly anticipated Tokyo Series, featuring the Chicago Cubs and the Los Angeles Dodgers. These two iconic franchises will battle it out on March 18 and 19 at the Tokyo Dome, marking not only the beginning of the season but also the 25th anniversary of MLB regular season games hosted in Japan. The first pitch for both games is set for 6:10 AM EST, and fans can tune in to watch the action live on FOX and FS1.
This year's Tokyo Series is notable for many reasons, but primarily for the exposure it provides to the immense talent encapsulated within Major League Baseball. With Japan being home to some of the world’s best players, this match-up will highlight stars like Shota Imanaga pitching for the Cubs against the Dodgers’ Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who is set to start the series opener. On the other hand, the Dodgers will feature Roki Sasaki making his much-anticipated MLB debut during the second game. This showcases the league's commitment to broadening its global outreach by spotlighting players with backgrounds steeped in Japanese baseball tradition.
Throughout the Tokyo Series, fans will experience not just baseball but also the vibrant culture and atmosphere of Japan. With stadiums like the Tokyo Dome, renowned for their intense energy, the series is expected to stir significant excitement among local fans, enhancing MLB's international appeal. Notably, this season opener is part of the league’s strategy to establish sustained connections with audiences worldwide, leveraging the growing popularity of baseball on the global stage.
Unfortunately, star player Shohei Ohtani, who was slated to participate, will miss this series as he continues to rehabilitate from recent elbow and shoulder surgeries. His absence, along with other notable injuries, including the Dodgers' Clayton Kershaw and Mookie Betts, could temper some expectations. Kershaw’s recovery from offseason surgery is still underway, whereas Betts is dealing with flu-like symptoms as the team prepares for the games.
Despite these setbacks, the Dodgers remain formidable. Following last year's World Series win, they have reinforced their roster, adding talent such as two-time Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell and outfield superstar Michael Conforto. Each player will add depth and experience, projecting the Dodgers as strong contenders this season.
For the Cubs, acquisition of Kyle Tucker from the Houston Astros stands out as they aim to make their mark early this season. Tucker, entering his contract year, is expected to rise to the occasion and perform for the Chicago fans. Other new faces, including infielder Justin Turner and relief pitcher Ryan Pressly, will play key roles as well.
This year's Tokyo Series not only sets the tone for the 2025 MLB season but also serves as a reminder of the league’s proactive steps toward international engagement. With MLB having previously organized series in countries including South Korea, England, and Mexico, Japan stands out as one of the league's prominent markets, especially with the number of Japanese players now gracing MLB rosters.
Aside from the allure of international play, there are practical aspects fans will need to know. Besides on-site tickets, coverage of the games will be extensive. Viewers can access broadcasts on FOX and FS1 across various streaming services, ensuring they do not miss any action, regardless of their location. MLB encourages fans to consult their channels or services available to catch both games as they happen live.
Looking forward, March 27 and 28 will see the rest of MLB teams commence their respective seasons. The excitement is palpable as teams prepare for what promises to be another thrilling season. While the focus now lies on the Tokyo Series, many franchise narratives, like injuries and player performances, will shape the stories of the early season.
There’s great anticipation surrounding the outcome of these games. Not only do they mark the beginning of the season, but they also represent the high-stakes nature of baseball where every game counts, right from the outset. What can the fans expect moving forward after these two games? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the stage is set for baseball’s grand return to action!
