On March 16, 2025, the Chicago Cubs triumphed over the Yomiuri Giants with a score of 4-2 during a pre-season exhibition game held at Tokyo Dome, setting the stage for the much-anticipated MLB opening series scheduled to start on March 18, 2025.
The game served as both teams’ last chance to fine-tune their rosters before the season. Giants pitcher Tatsuya Ishikawa had quite the performance, holding the formidable Cubs batting lineup scoreless for his three innings on the mound. His skills dazzled spectators, particularly Pete Crow-Armstrong, the third-year outfielder for the Cubs, who remarked, "I was overwhelmed by the pitching," referring to Ishikawa's impressive strikeouts and maneuvering on the mound.
The game proceeded with both teams remaining scoreless until the 5th inning. That’s when the Cubs turned up the heat, launching an explosive attack against the Giants’ pitching. Christopher Morel led off the inning with a double and immediately stole third base, showcasing his speed and game awareness. He was followed by Workman, who drove him home with the first run of the game—a well-timed hit to right field. The Cubs kept the momentum going when they benefited from another opportunity with the runners on base, where a wild pitch added another run to their score.
Despite the mounting pressure from the Cubs' relentless offense, the Giants managed to respond late with some good at-bats. Giants player Okamoto knocked two hits and was instrumental during his performance, leading his team’s efforts to put runs on the board. The Giants managed to score two runs off timely hit during the later innings. Giants manager Shinnosuke Abe said, "This time was very valuable, particularly for young players," reflecting on the importance of experiences like these before the regular season kicks off.
Throughout the game, Cubs' Seiya Suzuki emerged as the focus for many fans, starting as the designated hitter and positioned as the third batter. Unfortunately, it was not his day at the plate, as he ended up with no hits recorded over three at-bats. After the game, he stated cheerfully, "It was fun," and confidently expressed optimism for the upcoming season, saying he was feeling much healthier and ready to contribute more significantly going forward.
The energy within the Tokyo Dome reflected the excitement brewing for the opening series later this week. The Cubs players celebrated their victory by singing along to their anthem, "Go Cubs Go," which echoed fondly for many fans present at the game. Swanson, another Cubs player, commented on the moment, "I was surprised to hear the song, it was beautiful, and I want to hear it two more times," reveling in the camaraderie of the team and the thrill of being part of another MLB season.
The Cubs have high hopes for their upcoming season as they prepare to face the Los Angeles Dodgers. The opening fixture is particularly notable as both teams will feature Japanese pitchers. Shota Imanaga is set to take the mound for the Cubs, squaring off against Dodgers ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto—a historic first where two Japanese pitchers duel as Opening Day starters.
The Giants, on the other hand, will learn from their close contest and look to bolster their strategies as they shift focus to their upcoming games following the exhibition match. Despite the loss, Okamoto reflected on the day, stating, "It was great to experience playing against such legendary talents. We are inspired to do our best as the season begins, with hopes to improve based on this experience."
Both teams are eager for the challenges and opportunities the new season will present. Consequently, this exhibition game was not merely practice; it was the foundation for what looks to be an exciting MLB season to follow.