On March 12, 2025, the Chicago Cubs arrived at Haneda Airport, marking their first step toward the highly anticipated MLB opening series at Tokyo Dome against the Los Angeles Dodgers. The arrival of the Cubs was significant as it heralded the return of Major League Baseball's official games to Japan after six long years.
Traveling from their training camp in Arizona aboard a charter flight, the Cubs brought with them star players Shota Imanaga and Seiya Suzuki. Imanaga is set to take the mound as the opening pitcher, creating excitement among fans who are eager to see how he performs against formidable competition. The Cubs will play against the Hanshin Tigers on March 15 and the Yomiuri Giants on March 16 before facing the Dodgers on March 18 and 19, making this series particularly special.
The Cubs were met with a crowd of fans at Haneda Airport, reflecting the excitement surrounding their visit. An elaborate security setup ensured the players’ safe movement through the airport as they navigated through partitions to reach the lobby. Fans eagerly awaited glimpses of their favorite players, with images of Suzuki and Imanaga boarding their flight shared via the Cubs' official X account prior to their arrival.
Upon arrival, Imanaga, 31, and Suzuki, 30, displayed relaxed demeanor as they walked through the airport, embodying the excitement of the opening series. On the Dodgers' side, star players including Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Roki Sasaki are also expected to draw substantial fanfare when they arrive on March 13, 2025. Ohtani, known for his remarkable pitching and hitting capabilities, adds another layer of intrigue to the matchups.
This series not only provides fans the opportunity to see Major League players up close but also raises the stakes for the teams involved. The Dodgers, who will compete against the Cubs during the opening games, are no stranger to high-pressure situations, especially considering their roster's strength, which includes Ohtani and two of the league’s top pitchers.
The Cubs' pre-season matches against the local teams are also generating interest. Fans are eager to see how international stars perform against Japanese teams, which are known for their competitive spirit. The game against the Giants, which will take place on March 16, is particularly anticipated, as it pits the MLB team against the traditional powerhouse of Japanese baseball.
Shota Imanaga, having recently secured his role as the opening pitcher, is prepared to face the challenge posed by the Dodgers on March 18. His matchup against Yamamoto is expected to be one of the highlights of the series, showcasing the talent of both teams. Imanaga’s rise to prominence has caught the attention of many, and fans are eager to see how he performs on such a significant stage.
Reflecting on the significance of this event, Imanaga expressed his excitement about being part of the opening series. "It's overwhelming to be here representing my team and playing against talented players from MLB. This is truly a dream come true for me," he stated.
This enthusiasm is echoed among Cubs’ fans who view this trip to Japan as an important step for the franchise. Previously, encounters between MLB teams and Japanese clubs have drawn significant media attention and fans alike, and this year's series is expected to continue the tradition.
Another important aspect of this series is the personal connections and stories behind the players. Ohtani’s dual-threat ability as both pitcher and hitter has made him not only popular among American fans but also deeply influential among young Japanese players aspiring to follow in his footsteps.
On the other side, Suzuki's recent performances have made him one of the key players to watch for the Cubs. His known determination and skill have made him popular among both his teammates and supporters.
The lead-up to the opening series has been not only about the games but also about building bridges between cultures through the sport. Fans of both teams are taking this opportunity to witness the fusion of their cultural identities through baseball.
With the Dodgers arriving shortly and the excitement building around the games to come, this opening series at Tokyo Dome shimmers with the promise of thrilling baseball action and heartfelt cultural exchanges. Both teams are set to compete fiercely on the field, but off the field, they have already made history by nurturing the connection between Major League Baseball and Japanese fans.
The days leading up to the matches will include both practice sessions and press engagements, where fans can share their enthusiasm for baseball with players. Whether swinging bats or cheering from the stands, the spirit of baseball will undoubtedly resonate through every game played during this series.
The excitement is quite palpable as both teams aim to start their season with momentum. For baseball fans, this stands as one of the most anticipated sporting events of the year and promises to deliver unforgettable moments.
On March 12, the Cubs' arrival marks the opening of this chapter in both franchises' journeys, as they prepare to showcase their talents on one of the biggest international stages. With Imanaga set to take the mound and Ohtani and his teammates gearing up to respond, baseball fans around the world can expect nothing short of thrilling competitions.